Stefan Schaefer Movies
A disillusioned ex-hacker is branded a terrorist by the government for using his vast knowledge of technology to expose greedy CEOs, corrupt politicians, and power-hungry elitists in this thriller starring Eugene Byrd, Ali Larter, and William Sadler. Terell Lessor (Byrd) used to be one of the world's most notorious hackers, but these days he prefers to use his computer skills for vengeance. In order to get even with those who have slighted him in the past, Terell catches the guilty parties in compromising positions via strategically placed spy cameras, and then broadcasts the incriminating footage over the internet. Upon realizing precisely how much power he truly wields, Terell partners with college student Olivia (Larter) to strike fear into hearts of unethical public officials by giving them the same treatment afforded to his personal enemies. When Terell's exploits become front-page news and he is condemned as a terrorist by the government and law enforcement agencies, his once personal mission gains newfound momentum. ~ Jason Buchanan, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Eugene Byrd, Ali Larter, (more)
- 2006
See the streets of New York City evolve from the time of the horse and buggy to the days of the internal combustion engine in this documentary from director Stefan Schaefer. What benefits has modern transportation had for the city, and what drawbacks? By comparing the growth of The Big Apple to the growth experienced by such world class cities as London, Paris, and Copenhagen, Schaefer highlights how limiting automobile use can improve air quality, reduce noise pollution, and enrich communication on many levels. It seems that even the most vibrant city on the planet could still use a few tips from Old Europe when it comes to retaining a sense of community and enriching the lives of citizens. ~ Jason Buchanan, All Movie Guide
Two women whose peoples are often at odds find they're more alike than anyone expects in this drama from directors Stefan C. Schaefer and Diane Crespo. Rochel (Zoe Lister-Jones) and Nasira (Francis Benhamou) are two young women who have begun teaching at a public grade school in Brooklyn, NY. Rochel is an Orthodox Jew and Nasira is a Muslim of Pakistani descent, and the students and the administrators at the school are concerned there might be friction between the two teachers. However, over the course of their first year of teaching, Rochel and Nasira discover they have far more in common than they imagined -- both sometimes find themselves culturally out of place in 21st century New York, and both are trying to live within the traditions of their faith while struggling with their own feelings. In particular, Rochel and Nasira bond over the fact both are expected to enter into arranged marriages, Nasira with a wary optimism and Rochel with a great deal of trepidation. Arranged was screened in competition at the 2007 South by Southwest Film Festival. ~ Mark Deming, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Zoe Lister-Jones, Francis Benhamou, (more)
A small time crook improves his status with the help of a delusional old man in this comedy from Iceland. David (Petur Johann Sigfusson) is an aspiring poet whose work is informed by the tragic death of his brother when they were both children. However, like most poets David can't support himself just by writing and he makes ends meet as an errand boy for a small-time crime ring. David is looking for a way to get ahead in the mob, and when his eccentric landlord Harald (Eggert Thorleifsson) begins telling people that he's a underworld kingpin, he thinks he may have found a way to move a few steps up the ladder. David is able to persuade his partners in crime that Harald is both a close friend and a Mafia capo; he gains new power and influence, but his good fortune is dependent entirely on his landlord not coming to his senses. Stora Planio (aka The Higher Force) also features a brief appearance by Michael Imperioli, who also served as executive producer; the film received its American premiere at the 2008 AFI Los Angeles Film Festival. ~ Mark Deming, All Movie Guide
- 2008
- R
A fictional story serves as the foundation of this pseudo-documentary concerning a Filipina lady-boy prostitute who longs to explore Paris and find a successful soul mate who can make all of her wildest dreams come true. Raquela Rios is a transsexual prostitute who serves a discerning clientele in Cebu City. But Philippine Manila is a long way from the City of Lights, and in order to earn the cash needed to fund her trip, Raquela enters into the lucrative world of Internet pornography. With a little help from an Icelandic friend and a wealthy American web-porn entrepreneur, Raquela may even raise enough money to realize her goal of becoming a real woman. But while it often feels as if the odds are stacked against her, this infectiously optimistic lady-boy knows that it won't be long before she's wandering the streets of Paris with the one man who accepts her unconditionally, and loves her for who she really is. ~ Jason Buchanan, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Raquela Rios, Stefan Schaefer, (more)
