I hadn’t seen David O. Russell‘s Three Kings in roughly eight or nine years. Caught the late ’99 theatrical opening, and then an HD streaming version a few years ago on Amazon or Vudu. I’ve never been a huge fan. It pushes too hard. Too much yelling, shooting, confusion and chaos during the first 45 minutes. Yes, it eventually calms down. I respect the humanitarian arc during the last 45 to 50 minutes.

All to say that I watched it again yesterday afternoon inside Santa Barbara’s Lobero theatre, and then listened to Russell and SBIFF director Roger Durling talk it over for 45 or 50 minutes. Unfortunately the amplified sound was a little too boomy and bassy. I could understand portions of the discussion, but not all of it. If you don’t believe me, listen to the sound on the video I took. Russell: “Boom-didda-bamala-dah…betabud…budda-waddah-maddah-fig…biddy,” etc.

I naturally wanted to ask Russell about Amsterdam, the Disney/Fox film that he’s reportedly intending to direct with Christian Bale in the lead. Margot Robbie, Jamie Foxx and Angelina Jolie are allegedly being considered for supporting roles.

Alas, Durling didn’t open things up for audience questions, and I couldn’t find either of them after the event ended.