Cineaste’s new issue is out and this month’s editorial focuses on Iran and the government efforts to eradicate independent cinema in that country.  You can sign a petition HERE or participate in the Cine Foundation International initiative.

But that isn’t all that is in this issue, the coverage includes an article on Robert Redford’s latest film , The Conspirator,  an article on Argentine director Lisandro Alonso and something on gay porn zombies (I am not making that up). Of course there is a lot more in this issue and you should go out and grab one. Read the details at the Cineaste website.

It is kind of hard to believe but Brian Eno “1971-1977: The Man Who Fell To Earth, is the first ever documentary about Eno. He is, without any doubt, one of the most important figures in rock music both as an artist, and maybe even more so as a producer. This documentary follows not only his career but his life from the early to the late 70s. This is Eno before he quipped that U2’s Unforgettable Fire (which he produced) sold more records in minutes than he had in his entire career.

The film includes interviews with musicians, writers and more as well as archival footage. If you are not familiar with Eno then this might be a good place to start. The DVD comes out May 17. You can order HERE.

Ernie Kovacs is a television legend. But, like many who garnered fame mostly from a talk show environment, once they are off the air? Their star fades. Of course, Kovacs did skit comedy that was way way ahead of its time… think proto-Montly Python… The skit comedy of Kovacs is still hilarious today.

Anyway Keith Olbermann moderates a panel with Joel Hodgson (Mystery Science Theater 3000, a certain descendent of Kovacs), Roger Smigel (comedian and writer), George Schlatter (of Laugh-In), and Jolene Brand (Kovacs cast member). Other guests are planned for this panel, titled, It’s Been Real: The Works Of Comic Genius Ernie Kovacs.

The event will include screenings in addition to the panel. Kovacs work has been archived at the Paley Center since the eary 70s.

For more info head to www.paleycenter.org. or to www.erniekovacs.com.