We have reached the end of the Fall 2012 season. Thanks for your attendance, your input and your willingness to explore films with us.
We will return with the Winter 2013 season starting January 9, 2013. As soon as the season is set, you will be the first to know.
Merry Christmas!
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Review of last week's film ("Le Havre", 3.5 stars)
Steven says: Director Aki Kaurismaki has a unique vision. His films evoke the past while set squarely in the present. The colors are deliberate, as is the acting. And yet, the story unfolds innocently and naturally, painting a great picture of French solidarity and community. He claims this is the first of a trilogy, and we look forward to more of his take on life and society.
Film Comment magazine published an an interview with Aki Kaurismaki that will help explain his vision for the film and answer some of the questions our viewers had.
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
December 12, 2012 - "Le Havre" (2011)
Le Havre, 2011
Director: Aki Kaurismaki
Origin: Finland | France | Germany
Language: French
Running time: 93 min
This comedic drama relates the poignant tale of a young immigrant African boy arriving destitute in the French port of Le Havre, where he's eventually taken under the wing of a former Bohemian writer who now chooses to shine shoes for a living. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $611,709
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
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Review of last week's film ("How I Ended the Summer", 3.5 stars)
Steven says: Beautifully and starkly shot, this film about isolation and generational differences keeps the viewer tightly wound without all the sound and special effects of other modern thrillers. Two simple decisions, one from each character, start a chain reaction of events that eventually lead the script a little too far astray. But the point is still clear: misunderstandings can lead to fear, which can lead us to do some pretty stupid and messed up things. And it all starts from a omission of information.
Director: Aki Kaurismaki
Origin: Finland | France | Germany
Language: French
Running time: 93 min
This comedic drama relates the poignant tale of a young immigrant African boy arriving destitute in the French port of Le Havre, where he's eventually taken under the wing of a former Bohemian writer who now chooses to shine shoes for a living. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $611,709
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
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Review of last week's film ("How I Ended the Summer", 3.5 stars)
Steven says: Beautifully and starkly shot, this film about isolation and generational differences keeps the viewer tightly wound without all the sound and special effects of other modern thrillers. Two simple decisions, one from each character, start a chain reaction of events that eventually lead the script a little too far astray. But the point is still clear: misunderstandings can lead to fear, which can lead us to do some pretty stupid and messed up things. And it all starts from a omission of information.
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
December 5, 2012 - "How I Ended This Summer"
*UPDATED*
The original film planned for Dec. 5 was not available. We will now be screening the Russian film "How I Ended This Summer", from 2010.
How I Ended This Summer, 2010
Director: Aleksei Popgrebsky
Origin: Russia
Language: Russian
Running time: 124 minutes
At an isolated science station in the Arctic, meteorologist Sergei and young intern Pavel face the impending closure of the now-irrelevant base. While Sergei eagerly anticipates returning to his family, Pavel still hopes for a grand adventure. Time is distorted so far north, where the never-setting summer sun can make a day stretch into weeks, and this engrossing thriller examines how altered perceptions affect the two men. (from Netflix.com)
Watch the trailer on Netflix.
The original film planned for Dec. 5 was not available. We will now be screening the Russian film "How I Ended This Summer", from 2010.
How I Ended This Summer, 2010
Director: Aleksei Popgrebsky
Origin: Russia
Language: Russian
Running time: 124 minutes
At an isolated science station in the Arctic, meteorologist Sergei and young intern Pavel face the impending closure of the now-irrelevant base. While Sergei eagerly anticipates returning to his family, Pavel still hopes for a grand adventure. Time is distorted so far north, where the never-setting summer sun can make a day stretch into weeks, and this engrossing thriller examines how altered perceptions affect the two men. (from Netflix.com)
Watch the trailer on Netflix.
Friday, November 16, 2012
November 28, 2012 - "Once Upon a Time in Anatolia" (2011)
Once Upon a Time in Anatolia, 2011
Director: Nuri Bilge Ceylan
Origin: Turkey | Bosnia and Herzegovina
Language: Turkish
Running time: 150 min.
A body has been buried in the grasslands of rural Turkey. Over the course of one night, a doctor and a detective from a nearby town join a search effort in which the desolate landscape comes to symbolize their own solemn, insular lives. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $138,730
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
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Review of last week's film ("Tuesday, After Christmas", 3.5 stars)Steven says: Here's another film that really benefitted from discussion. The director was methodical in his story telling, yet sneaky in his camera choices. People were deliberately left out of frames in several scenes, providing extra focus on one character while minimizing the other's impact in the scene. We've seen this same adulterous affair played out in countless movies, but this was one of the first I've seen where the script tried to humanize each player. No one wins in these situations, and he made it clear that, even after the end of the script, the characters had much more to overcome. I'd like to watch it again to pay more attention to the periphery and less to the subtitles.
Director: Nuri Bilge Ceylan
Origin: Turkey | Bosnia and Herzegovina
Language: Turkish
Running time: 150 min.
A body has been buried in the grasslands of rural Turkey. Over the course of one night, a doctor and a detective from a nearby town join a search effort in which the desolate landscape comes to symbolize their own solemn, insular lives. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $138,730
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
---
Review of last week's film ("Tuesday, After Christmas", 3.5 stars)Steven says: Here's another film that really benefitted from discussion. The director was methodical in his story telling, yet sneaky in his camera choices. People were deliberately left out of frames in several scenes, providing extra focus on one character while minimizing the other's impact in the scene. We've seen this same adulterous affair played out in countless movies, but this was one of the first I've seen where the script tried to humanize each player. No one wins in these situations, and he made it clear that, even after the end of the script, the characters had much more to overcome. I'd like to watch it again to pay more attention to the periphery and less to the subtitles.
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
November 14, 2012 - "Tuesday, After Christmas" (2010)
Reminder: There will be no film screening on Nov. 21, the Wednesday before Thanksgiving.
But on November 14, we will watch:
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Tuesday, After Christmas, 2010
Director; Radu Muntean
Origin: Romania
Language: Romanian
Running time: 99 min
Paul Hanganu (Mimi Branescu) is in love with two women: Adriana (Mirela Oprisor), his wife of 10 years, and Raluca (Maria Popistasu), his mistress of the past several months. Now, at a crossroads, Paul is forced to choose between them in this drama from Romanian director Radu Muntean. Combining careful staging and emotionally intense dialogue, the film presents an unblinking profile of a man in crisis and the women whose lives he's ensnared. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $25,866
Watch the trailer on YouTube.
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Review of last week's film (Footnote, 4.5 stars)
Steven says: With close-ups galore, we don't miss much emotion on the faces of our main actors. In fact, the first three minutes or so is one camera focused on a father's face as his son gives an acceptance speech. So much going on behind those eyes. The film is expertly shot with snippets of fantasy thrown in; and in the climax, the editing and music bring a great amount of suspense and excitement to a largely academic paper trail. So what if there are more answers than questions? In this film, they serve to heighten the frustration felt by the main characters as they navigate their father-son relationship and professional differences.
But on November 14, we will watch:
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Tuesday, After Christmas, 2010
Director; Radu Muntean
Origin: Romania
Language: Romanian
Running time: 99 min
Paul Hanganu (Mimi Branescu) is in love with two women: Adriana (Mirela Oprisor), his wife of 10 years, and Raluca (Maria Popistasu), his mistress of the past several months. Now, at a crossroads, Paul is forced to choose between them in this drama from Romanian director Radu Muntean. Combining careful staging and emotionally intense dialogue, the film presents an unblinking profile of a man in crisis and the women whose lives he's ensnared. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $25,866
Watch the trailer on YouTube.
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Review of last week's film (Footnote, 4.5 stars)
Steven says: With close-ups galore, we don't miss much emotion on the faces of our main actors. In fact, the first three minutes or so is one camera focused on a father's face as his son gives an acceptance speech. So much going on behind those eyes. The film is expertly shot with snippets of fantasy thrown in; and in the climax, the editing and music bring a great amount of suspense and excitement to a largely academic paper trail. So what if there are more answers than questions? In this film, they serve to heighten the frustration felt by the main characters as they navigate their father-son relationship and professional differences.
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
November 7, 2012 - "Footnote" (2011)
Footnote, 2011
Director: Joseph Cedar
Origin: Israel
Language: Hebrew
Running time: 103 min
Long-buried tensions erupt in this witty drama, which follows the strained relationship between a reserved Talmudic scholar and his ambitious son -- both professors at the same university -- when the father wins a prestigious award the son covets. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated PG for thematic elements, brief nudity, language and smoking
U.S. box office: $2,007,451
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
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Review of last week's film ("The Seventh Seal", 4 stars)Steven says: I have a hard time rating classics because of the stigma they bring as well as different film standards of the time. Removing those, I can say I really enjoyed the script, most of the performances, and the director's ability to keep the audience interested. While the story revolves around a quest for meaning and a search for God, there is plenty of time for humor, debauchery and juggling. It's definitely worth the watch to see a classic film and director that have influenced so many after him.
Director: Joseph Cedar
Origin: Israel
Language: Hebrew
Running time: 103 min
Long-buried tensions erupt in this witty drama, which follows the strained relationship between a reserved Talmudic scholar and his ambitious son -- both professors at the same university -- when the father wins a prestigious award the son covets. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated PG for thematic elements, brief nudity, language and smoking
U.S. box office: $2,007,451
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
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Review of last week's film ("The Seventh Seal", 4 stars)Steven says: I have a hard time rating classics because of the stigma they bring as well as different film standards of the time. Removing those, I can say I really enjoyed the script, most of the performances, and the director's ability to keep the audience interested. While the story revolves around a quest for meaning and a search for God, there is plenty of time for humor, debauchery and juggling. It's definitely worth the watch to see a classic film and director that have influenced so many after him.
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
October 31, 2012 - "The Seventh Seal" (1957)
The Seventh Seal, 1957
Director: Ingmar Bergman
Origin: Sweden
Languages: Swedish | Latin
Running time: 96 min
Exhausted and disillusioned, a medieval knight makes the journey home after years of combat in the Crusades. But when the black-robed figure of Death confronts him, the knight challenges him to a game of chess. (from Netflix.com)
Watch the trailer on YouTube.
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Review of last week's film ("Tyrannosaur", 3 stars)
Steven says: With no subtitles, it was difficult to follow parts of the story line because the main character had such a thick accent. But the acting in general was so good, we often didn't need dialogue to figure out what we were supposed to know. All the characters were presented with conflicts that pushed them to their breaking points. Some broke; others didn't. It was fascinating and surprising to see how each progressed and revealed their violent sides. Are we all capable of violence? Why are some more prone to it than others? And how do we move past that inclination to lead better lives? No answers here, but you will find provocative suggestions.
Director: Ingmar Bergman
Origin: Sweden
Languages: Swedish | Latin
Running time: 96 min
Exhausted and disillusioned, a medieval knight makes the journey home after years of combat in the Crusades. But when the black-robed figure of Death confronts him, the knight challenges him to a game of chess. (from Netflix.com)
Watch the trailer on YouTube.
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Review of last week's film ("Tyrannosaur", 3 stars)
Steven says: With no subtitles, it was difficult to follow parts of the story line because the main character had such a thick accent. But the acting in general was so good, we often didn't need dialogue to figure out what we were supposed to know. All the characters were presented with conflicts that pushed them to their breaking points. Some broke; others didn't. It was fascinating and surprising to see how each progressed and revealed their violent sides. Are we all capable of violence? Why are some more prone to it than others? And how do we move past that inclination to lead better lives? No answers here, but you will find provocative suggestions.
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
October 24, 2012 - "Tyrannosaur" (2011)
Tyrannosaur, 2011
Director: Paddy Considine
Origin: UK
Language: English
Running time: 92 min
Unemployed and frustrated, Joseph is in a downward spiral when he meets Hannah, a kind Christian woman who's drawn to try to help him. As their bond develops, however, it becomes apparent that Hannah's life is far from easy or simple. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $22,088
Watch the trailer at IMDB.com.
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Review of last week's film ("Tales of the Golden Age", 4 stars)
Steven says: Five stories. 2.5 hours. It goes quickly. The Party is in charge but the people are resilient. Most of the time. There are many covert operations, many mishaps, and nearly as many poignant moments. How does one survive under a communist regime where food and electricity are not certain? This film provides different glimpses into urban legends from Romania that try to answer the question. They make you laugh at the absurdity of it all; and then they make you think about why it seems funny. Very worthy of a viewing.
Director: Paddy Considine
Origin: UK
Language: English
Running time: 92 min
Unemployed and frustrated, Joseph is in a downward spiral when he meets Hannah, a kind Christian woman who's drawn to try to help him. As their bond develops, however, it becomes apparent that Hannah's life is far from easy or simple. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $22,088
Watch the trailer at IMDB.com.
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Review of last week's film ("Tales of the Golden Age", 4 stars)
Steven says: Five stories. 2.5 hours. It goes quickly. The Party is in charge but the people are resilient. Most of the time. There are many covert operations, many mishaps, and nearly as many poignant moments. How does one survive under a communist regime where food and electricity are not certain? This film provides different glimpses into urban legends from Romania that try to answer the question. They make you laugh at the absurdity of it all; and then they make you think about why it seems funny. Very worthy of a viewing.
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
October 17, 2012 - "Tales from a Golden Age" (2009)
Tales from a Golden Age, 2009
Directors: Hanno Höfer, Razvan Marculescu, Cristian Mungiu, Constantin Popescu, Ioana Uricaru
Origin: Romania | France
Language: Romanian
Running time: 155 min
Everyday life in 1980s Romania under Ceausescu takes on an air of comic surrealism in this whimsical collection of shorts written by award-winning filmmaker Cristian Mungiu and helmed by several acclaimed Romanian directors. (from Netflix.com)
Watch the trailer on YouTube.
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Review of last week's film (Cria Cuervos, 3.5 stars)Steven says: This 1976 film earned high praise at the time and has continued to be seen as a great film. It is deceptively simple. The story line meanders as the narrator tells the story of her childhood before and after the deaths of her parents. The group I watched it with was especially taken with the performances and with the rich content of family relationships. The film is also a metaphor for the political reality in Spain at the time. It is worth a viewing followed by discussion, which helped shape my favorable view of the film.
Directors: Hanno Höfer, Razvan Marculescu, Cristian Mungiu, Constantin Popescu, Ioana Uricaru
Origin: Romania | France
Language: Romanian
Running time: 155 min
Everyday life in 1980s Romania under Ceausescu takes on an air of comic surrealism in this whimsical collection of shorts written by award-winning filmmaker Cristian Mungiu and helmed by several acclaimed Romanian directors. (from Netflix.com)
Watch the trailer on YouTube.
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Review of last week's film (Cria Cuervos, 3.5 stars)Steven says: This 1976 film earned high praise at the time and has continued to be seen as a great film. It is deceptively simple. The story line meanders as the narrator tells the story of her childhood before and after the deaths of her parents. The group I watched it with was especially taken with the performances and with the rich content of family relationships. The film is also a metaphor for the political reality in Spain at the time. It is worth a viewing followed by discussion, which helped shape my favorable view of the film.
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
October 10, 2012 - "Cria Cuervos" (1976)
Cria Cuervos, 1976
This week only -- we will be in Beering Hall, 1-245 (park in University Parking Garage)
Director: Carlos Saura
Origin: Spain
Language: Spanish
Running time: 110 min
Director Carlos Saura's haunting tale -- part psychological drama and part political parable -- features a mesmerizing turn by Ana Torrent. After watching her mother (Geraldine Chaplin) succumb to cancer, 9-year-old Ana (Torrent) blames the death on her womanizing father (Héctor Alterio) and tries to poison him. When he dies of a heart attack while in bed with a lover, Ana mistakenly assumes she's responsible for his demise. (from Netflix.com)
Watch the trailer on YouTube.
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Review of last week's film (Pariah, 3.5 stars)Steven says: This is a film based in reality. It's not just about a teenager's sexual identity. It places that coming-of-age conflict in a larger context of growing up in an African-American home in a major city. All of these qualifiers add depth to the story and to the outcome. It's a lesson in families, too. Who do you symphatize with, empathize with? The ending scenes are powerful, including a wonderful poem about "Breaking Open." The soundtrack deserves some recognition, too, for showcasing unknown (to me) artists while elevating the story line.
This week only -- we will be in Beering Hall, 1-245 (park in University Parking Garage)
Director: Carlos Saura
Origin: Spain
Language: Spanish
Running time: 110 min
Director Carlos Saura's haunting tale -- part psychological drama and part political parable -- features a mesmerizing turn by Ana Torrent. After watching her mother (Geraldine Chaplin) succumb to cancer, 9-year-old Ana (Torrent) blames the death on her womanizing father (Héctor Alterio) and tries to poison him. When he dies of a heart attack while in bed with a lover, Ana mistakenly assumes she's responsible for his demise. (from Netflix.com)
Watch the trailer on YouTube.
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Review of last week's film (Pariah, 3.5 stars)Steven says: This is a film based in reality. It's not just about a teenager's sexual identity. It places that coming-of-age conflict in a larger context of growing up in an African-American home in a major city. All of these qualifiers add depth to the story and to the outcome. It's a lesson in families, too. Who do you symphatize with, empathize with? The ending scenes are powerful, including a wonderful poem about "Breaking Open." The soundtrack deserves some recognition, too, for showcasing unknown (to me) artists while elevating the story line.
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
October 3, 2012 - "Pariah" (2011)
Pariah, 2011
Director: Dee Rees
Origin: USA
Language: English
Running time: 86 min
Brooklyn teen Alike (Adepero Oduye) is a model child around her devoutly religious family, but she sheds the good-girl image to reveal a harder side during a nightclub excursion with butch pal Laura (Pernell Walker) in this coming-of-age tale of urban identity and sexual expression. With curfew looming and her parents none the wiser, Alike must catch the bus back home, where she faces the complex negotiation of her contradictory worlds. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated R for sexual content and language
U.S. box office: $758,099
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
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Review of last week's film (Farewell, 3.5 stars)Steven says: The main characters are played by successful film directors in their own right. They are the film. As often happens with "inspired by" movies, it is hard to separate fact from fiction, and film-making from history. So I don't try. This is a great perspective, and a subdued one, of how an unassuming French man helped set in motion the fall of the Soviet Union. The typical stories we see about espionage between U.S. vs. U.S.S.R. take a back seat to the more personal stories of those were involved. It also explores the question of lying and betrayal, within relationships and to country. It is a tangled web when one sets out to do right.
Director: Dee Rees
Origin: USA
Language: English
Running time: 86 min
Brooklyn teen Alike (Adepero Oduye) is a model child around her devoutly religious family, but she sheds the good-girl image to reveal a harder side during a nightclub excursion with butch pal Laura (Pernell Walker) in this coming-of-age tale of urban identity and sexual expression. With curfew looming and her parents none the wiser, Alike must catch the bus back home, where she faces the complex negotiation of her contradictory worlds. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated R for sexual content and language
U.S. box office: $758,099
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
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Review of last week's film (Farewell, 3.5 stars)Steven says: The main characters are played by successful film directors in their own right. They are the film. As often happens with "inspired by" movies, it is hard to separate fact from fiction, and film-making from history. So I don't try. This is a great perspective, and a subdued one, of how an unassuming French man helped set in motion the fall of the Soviet Union. The typical stories we see about espionage between U.S. vs. U.S.S.R. take a back seat to the more personal stories of those were involved. It also explores the question of lying and betrayal, within relationships and to country. It is a tangled web when one sets out to do right.
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
September 26, 2012 - "Farewell" (2009)
Farewell, 2009
Director: Christian Carion
Origin: France
Language: French | English | Russian
Running time: 113 min
In this thinking man's spy thriller, KGB agent Sergei Grigoriev (Emir Kusturica) plans to hand over hard evidence that proves the depth of his agency's penetration of U.S. intelligence, in a one-man crusade to bring down the Soviet empire. French engineer Pierre Froment (Guillaume Canet) is drawn into this web of espionage against his will, but proves a surprisingly resourceful operative in the process. (from Netflix.com)
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
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Review of last week's film (Kinyarwanda, 4.5 stars)
Steven says: Inspired by true stories and including first-time actors from Rwanda, this film aims to illustrate the complexities of human life within a specific time and place. There is more to the Rwandan genocide than Hutu vs. Tutsi. There was blossoming romance and soldiers worried about their families back home; the role of faith and how Rwandans nearly lost theirs during the 100 days of hell; the soldiers who risked their lives to shepherd Tutsis to safety while innocent children helped teach lessons about truth-telling and perception. The director showed restraint in depicting violence and nearly went overboard in his creation of powerful scenes of faith and forgiveness. I look forward to more of his films.
Director: Christian Carion
Origin: France
Language: French | English | Russian
Running time: 113 min
In this thinking man's spy thriller, KGB agent Sergei Grigoriev (Emir Kusturica) plans to hand over hard evidence that proves the depth of his agency's penetration of U.S. intelligence, in a one-man crusade to bring down the Soviet empire. French engineer Pierre Froment (Guillaume Canet) is drawn into this web of espionage against his will, but proves a surprisingly resourceful operative in the process. (from Netflix.com)
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
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Review of last week's film (Kinyarwanda, 4.5 stars)
Steven says: Inspired by true stories and including first-time actors from Rwanda, this film aims to illustrate the complexities of human life within a specific time and place. There is more to the Rwandan genocide than Hutu vs. Tutsi. There was blossoming romance and soldiers worried about their families back home; the role of faith and how Rwandans nearly lost theirs during the 100 days of hell; the soldiers who risked their lives to shepherd Tutsis to safety while innocent children helped teach lessons about truth-telling and perception. The director showed restraint in depicting violence and nearly went overboard in his creation of powerful scenes of faith and forgiveness. I look forward to more of his films.
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
September 19, 2012 - Kinyarwanda (2011)
Kinyarwanda, 2011
Director: Alrick Brown
Origin: USA | France
Languages: English | Kinyarwanda
Running time: 100 min.
In this first-ever dramatic feature produced by Rwandans, the events of the horrific 1994 genocide are personalized through six intertwined stories. As the violence rages, mosques become a haven for Rwandans of all affiliations seeking protection. Director and writer Alrick Brown seeks the gray areas in this dark period of history, finding all-too-human motivations and resilience in the face of unimaginable catastrophe. (from Netflix.com)
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
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Review of last week's film (Certified Copy, 4 stars)
Steven says: One's perspective and personal experiences, I believe, lead to different interpretations of this film. Are they a couple? If not, what's going on? The answers are as numerous as the audience members. If you remove yourself from the mysterious plot, you still see a great performance by Juliette Binoche and great symbolism and direction from Abbas Kiarostami. Someone said this film reminded him of the Italian films of the 1960s and 1970s, from directors such as Fellini. If that's the case, even this original screenplay could really be a certified copy of the greats that came before. It's worth seeing, even if you are more confused at the end than when you started.
Director: Alrick Brown
Origin: USA | France
Languages: English | Kinyarwanda
Running time: 100 min.
In this first-ever dramatic feature produced by Rwandans, the events of the horrific 1994 genocide are personalized through six intertwined stories. As the violence rages, mosques become a haven for Rwandans of all affiliations seeking protection. Director and writer Alrick Brown seeks the gray areas in this dark period of history, finding all-too-human motivations and resilience in the face of unimaginable catastrophe. (from Netflix.com)
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
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Review of last week's film (Certified Copy, 4 stars)
Steven says: One's perspective and personal experiences, I believe, lead to different interpretations of this film. Are they a couple? If not, what's going on? The answers are as numerous as the audience members. If you remove yourself from the mysterious plot, you still see a great performance by Juliette Binoche and great symbolism and direction from Abbas Kiarostami. Someone said this film reminded him of the Italian films of the 1960s and 1970s, from directors such as Fellini. If that's the case, even this original screenplay could really be a certified copy of the greats that came before. It's worth seeing, even if you are more confused at the end than when you started.
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
September 12, 2012 - "Certified Copy" (2010)
Certified Copy, 2010
Director: Abbas Kiarostami
Origin: France | Italy | Belgium
Languages: French | English | Italian
Running time: 106 min.
In Iranian director Abbas Kiarostami's captivating meditation on art and love, British writer James Miller meets a beautiful gallery owner in Tuscany and begins -- or possibly continues -- a romance with her. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $1,337,384
Watch the trailer on IMDB
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Review of last week's film (The Death of Mr. Lazarescu, 3.5 stars)Steven says: I can't speak to the cultural meaning behind the film. It is a satire that only those familiar with Romania will fully comprehend. However, the story line is readily accessible and relatable. It centers on healthcare, or lack thereof, and how you navigate an overtaxed system with only an ambulance nurse to speak out for you. And when alcoholism is the one trait you always exhibit, how do you get said system to take your health complaints seriously? The length of the film and the pettiness that overtakes the concern for human life leaves you almost as exhausted as the ambulance crew; but it also makes you want to be more aware about the future of our own healthcare system.
Director: Abbas Kiarostami
Origin: France | Italy | Belgium
Languages: French | English | Italian
Running time: 106 min.
In Iranian director Abbas Kiarostami's captivating meditation on art and love, British writer James Miller meets a beautiful gallery owner in Tuscany and begins -- or possibly continues -- a romance with her. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $1,337,384
Watch the trailer on IMDB
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Review of last week's film (The Death of Mr. Lazarescu, 3.5 stars)Steven says: I can't speak to the cultural meaning behind the film. It is a satire that only those familiar with Romania will fully comprehend. However, the story line is readily accessible and relatable. It centers on healthcare, or lack thereof, and how you navigate an overtaxed system with only an ambulance nurse to speak out for you. And when alcoholism is the one trait you always exhibit, how do you get said system to take your health complaints seriously? The length of the film and the pettiness that overtakes the concern for human life leaves you almost as exhausted as the ambulance crew; but it also makes you want to be more aware about the future of our own healthcare system.
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
September 5, 2012 - "The Death of Mr. Lazarescu" (2006)
The Death of Mr. Lazarescu, 2006
Director: Cristi Puiu
Origin: Romania
Language: Romanian
Running time: 150 min.
The plot of Romanian director Cristi Puiu's real-time drama is simple, following the travails of an ailing old man (veteran actor Ion Fiscuteanu) who waits for his illness to overtake him as a weary paramedic (Luminta Gheorghiu) shuttles him between hospitals. Inspired by filmmaker Eric Rohmer's Six Moral Tales, Puiu's slyly metaphorical satire is the first installment of the planned series Six Stories from the Bucharest Suburbs. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated R for language and brief nudity
U.S. box office: $79,943
Watch the trailer on YouTube.
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A review of last week's film ("A Separation", 5 stars)
Steven says: The New York Times review of the movie says it so much better than I. The acting is superb, the tension is real, the plot is not ordinary but it is realistic. We see complex situations from our own lives and dealings with others. And we pass judgment on the characters for things we're not sure we would handle any other way. The story line delves into the definition of truth and justice, which is a moving target depending on your viewpoint and your own moral stances.
Director: Cristi Puiu
Origin: Romania
Language: Romanian
Running time: 150 min.
The plot of Romanian director Cristi Puiu's real-time drama is simple, following the travails of an ailing old man (veteran actor Ion Fiscuteanu) who waits for his illness to overtake him as a weary paramedic (Luminta Gheorghiu) shuttles him between hospitals. Inspired by filmmaker Eric Rohmer's Six Moral Tales, Puiu's slyly metaphorical satire is the first installment of the planned series Six Stories from the Bucharest Suburbs. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated R for language and brief nudity
U.S. box office: $79,943
Watch the trailer on YouTube.
-----
A review of last week's film ("A Separation", 5 stars)
Steven says: The New York Times review of the movie says it so much better than I. The acting is superb, the tension is real, the plot is not ordinary but it is realistic. We see complex situations from our own lives and dealings with others. And we pass judgment on the characters for things we're not sure we would handle any other way. The story line delves into the definition of truth and justice, which is a moving target depending on your viewpoint and your own moral stances.
Friday, August 24, 2012
August 29, 2012 - "A Separation" (2011)
A Separation, 2011
Director: Asghar Farhadi
Origin: Iran
Language: Persian
Running time: 123 min.
An Iranian husband and wife split up over his decision to stay and care for his aging father instead of leaving the country with his family. But his fateful choice to hire a stranger to do most of the caretaking breeds unexpected consequences. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated PG-13 for mature thematic material
U.S. box office: $7,098,492
Watch the trailer on IMDB.com
Director: Asghar Farhadi
Origin: Iran
Language: Persian
Running time: 123 min.
An Iranian husband and wife split up over his decision to stay and care for his aging father instead of leaving the country with his family. But his fateful choice to hire a stranger to do most of the caretaking breeds unexpected consequences. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated PG-13 for mature thematic material
U.S. box office: $7,098,492
Watch the trailer on IMDB.com
Monday, August 20, 2012
Announcing the Fall 2012 season
The Fall 2012 Season is August 29 – December, 2012.
All screenings but one for this season begin at 7:00 p.m. in Forney Hall, Room B124, 480 Stadium Mall Drive, on the Purdue University campus (Oct. 10 will be in Beering 1245).
Parking is available in the Northwestern Avenue parking garage.
All screenings but one for this season begin at 7:00 p.m. in Forney Hall, Room B124, 480 Stadium Mall Drive, on the Purdue University campus (Oct. 10 will be in Beering 1245).
Parking is available in the Northwestern Avenue parking garage.
- Wednesday, August 29, 2012, A Separation, 2011; Director: Asghar Farhadi; Origin: Iran; Language: Persian; 123 min; Rated PG-13 for mature thematic material
- Wednesday, September 5, 2012, The Death of Mr. Lazarescu, 2006; Director: Cristi Puiu; Origin: Romania; Language: Romanian; 150 min.; Rated R for language and brief nudity
- Wednesday, September 12, 2012, Certified Copy, 2010; Director: Abbas Kiarostami; Origin: France | Italy | Belgium; Language: French | English | Italian; 106 min
- Wednesday, September 19, 2012, Kinyarwanda, 2011; Director: Alrick Brown; Origin: USA | France; Language: English | Kinyarwanda; 100 min
- Wednesday, September 26, 2012, Farewell, 2009; Director: Christian Carion; Origin: France; Language: French | English | Russian; 113 min
- Wednesday, October 3, 2012, Pariah, 2011; Director: Dee Rees; Origin: USA; Language: English; 86 min; Rated R for sexual content and language
- Wednesday, October 10, 2012, Cria Cuervos, 1976; Director: Carlos Saura; Origin: Spain; Language: Spanish; 110 min (Reminder: this week only will be in Beering 1245)
- Wednesday, October 17, 2012, Tales from a Golden Age, 2009; Director: Hanno Höfer, Razvan Marculescu, Cristian Mungiu, Constantin Popescu, Ioana Uricaru; Origin: Romania | France; Language: Romanian; 155 min
- Wednesday, October 24, 2012, Tyrannosaur, 2011; Director: Paddy Considine; Origin: UK; Language: English; 92 min
- Wednesday, October 31, 2012, The Seventh Seal, 1957; Director: Ingmar Bergman; Origin: Sweden; Language: Swedish | Latin; 96 min
- Wednesday, November 7, 2012, Footnote, 2011; Director: Joseph Cedar; Origin: Israel; Language: Hebrew; 103 min; Rated PG for thematic elements, brief nudity, language and smoking
- Wednesday, November 14, 2012, Tuesday, After Christmas, 2010; Director: Radu Muntean; Origin: Romania ; Language: Romanian; 99 min
- Wednesday, November 28, 2012, Once Upon a Time in Anatolia, 2011; Director: Nuri Bilge Ceylan; Origin: Turkey | Bosnia and Herzegovina ; Language: Turkish; 150 min.
- Wednesday, December 5, 2012, La Promesse, 1996; Directors: Luc Dardenne, Jean-Pierre Dardenne; Origin: Belgium | France | Luxembourg; Language: French | Romanian; 92 min
- Wednesday, December 12, 2012, Le Havre, 2011; Director: Aki Kaurismaki; Origin: Finland | France | Germany; Language: French; 93 min
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
August 8, 2012 - "The Time That Remains" (2011)
The Time That Remains, 2011
Director: Elia Suleiman
Origin: UK
Languages: Arabic | Hebrew | English
Running time: 109 min
From the creation of Israel in 1948 through the early 21st century, a Palestinian family experiences myriad triumphs and tragedies over the course of several generations in this sweeping drama from writer-director Elia Suleiman. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $18,719
----
Review of last week's movie (3.5 stars)
Steven says: The tree as symbol of everything that is wrong and right about a family. It creeps. It searches for sustenance. It often steals one's heart (metaphorically) and it destroys things in its path in order to maintain its own strength. Not terribly subtle, the film still makes us think about the importance of things that we arbitrarily assign value to. In this film's instance, the assigned value is pretty high. The variety of coping mechanisms is what makes this film so real.
Director: Elia Suleiman
Origin: UK
Languages: Arabic | Hebrew | English
Running time: 109 min
From the creation of Israel in 1948 through the early 21st century, a Palestinian family experiences myriad triumphs and tragedies over the course of several generations in this sweeping drama from writer-director Elia Suleiman. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $18,719
----
Review of last week's movie (3.5 stars)
Steven says: The tree as symbol of everything that is wrong and right about a family. It creeps. It searches for sustenance. It often steals one's heart (metaphorically) and it destroys things in its path in order to maintain its own strength. Not terribly subtle, the film still makes us think about the importance of things that we arbitrarily assign value to. In this film's instance, the assigned value is pretty high. The variety of coping mechanisms is what makes this film so real.
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
August 1, 2012 - "The Tree" (2010)
The Tree, 2010
Director: Julie Bertuccelli
Origin: France | Australia | Germany | Italy
Language: English
Running time: 100 min
After her husband's sudden death, Dawn must provide for her four kids despite her grief, while young Simone is convinced her father's spirit now lives in a giant fig tree in the yard. But the tree's roots soon threaten the stability of their home. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $71,158
----
Review of last week's film (Yi Yi, four stars)Steven says: This is a "let it soak in" film. At nearly three hours, there is a lot to take in, to process, to analyze. It is richly layered with everyday characters dealing with everyday events - school, ailing parents, money-borrowing relatives. It is how their stories intersect and interact that brings larger drama and larger questions. At the film's heart is the question: are you searching for something real in life or something magical? In the end, it seems that the magic is unattainable and even harmful, unless you give yourself over to something real first. I'm still thinking about it though, so these ideas may not hold true tomorrow.
Director: Julie Bertuccelli
Origin: France | Australia | Germany | Italy
Language: English
Running time: 100 min
After her husband's sudden death, Dawn must provide for her four kids despite her grief, while young Simone is convinced her father's spirit now lives in a giant fig tree in the yard. But the tree's roots soon threaten the stability of their home. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $71,158
----
Review of last week's film (Yi Yi, four stars)Steven says: This is a "let it soak in" film. At nearly three hours, there is a lot to take in, to process, to analyze. It is richly layered with everyday characters dealing with everyday events - school, ailing parents, money-borrowing relatives. It is how their stories intersect and interact that brings larger drama and larger questions. At the film's heart is the question: are you searching for something real in life or something magical? In the end, it seems that the magic is unattainable and even harmful, unless you give yourself over to something real first. I'm still thinking about it though, so these ideas may not hold true tomorrow.
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
July 25, 2012 - "Yi Yi" (2000)
Yi Yi, 2000
Director: Edward Yang
Origin: Taiwan | Japan
Languages: Mandarin | Hokkien
Running time: 173 min
Among movie critics' highest-rated foreign films of 2000, Yi Yi chronicles three generations of a Taiwanese family mired in a crisis of self-doubt. The film focuses mostly on computer worker N.J. (Nien-Jen Wu) and his wife and two children. A chance meeting with a former lover compels N.J. to question the assumptions on which his life is based. Warm and thoughtful, Yi Yi posits that truth is something we may never know. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $901,359
----
Review of last week's film ("Something Like Happiness", four stars)
Steven says: The theme of this movie centers around what passes for happiness. We've been here before with similarly titled films, but the relationships seem more real, more grounded in truth. For sure, the characters aren't normal - what would a movie be with normal people in it, right? But their struggles, emotions, and consequences are places we've been ourselves. The introductory scenes are sparse and lack engagement, but somewhere in the 20-25 minute range, everything clicks and there's no turning back. You'll love, despise, ache and cringe throughout this movie.
Director: Edward Yang
Origin: Taiwan | Japan
Languages: Mandarin | Hokkien
Running time: 173 min
Among movie critics' highest-rated foreign films of 2000, Yi Yi chronicles three generations of a Taiwanese family mired in a crisis of self-doubt. The film focuses mostly on computer worker N.J. (Nien-Jen Wu) and his wife and two children. A chance meeting with a former lover compels N.J. to question the assumptions on which his life is based. Warm and thoughtful, Yi Yi posits that truth is something we may never know. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $901,359
----
Review of last week's film ("Something Like Happiness", four stars)
Steven says: The theme of this movie centers around what passes for happiness. We've been here before with similarly titled films, but the relationships seem more real, more grounded in truth. For sure, the characters aren't normal - what would a movie be with normal people in it, right? But their struggles, emotions, and consequences are places we've been ourselves. The introductory scenes are sparse and lack engagement, but somewhere in the 20-25 minute range, everything clicks and there's no turning back. You'll love, despise, ache and cringe throughout this movie.
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
July 18, 2012 - "Something Like Happiness" (2005)
Something Like Happiness, 2005
Director: Bohdan Slama
Origin: Czech Republic
Language: Czech
Running time: 102 min
Monika (Tatiana Vilhelmova), Tonik (Pavel Liska) and Dasha (Anna Geislerova) are three friends from a small working-class Czech town. Living in a depressed cloud of industrialization spewed from one of the country's largest chemical factories, the trio dreams of a brighter life, each of the three finding solace through love, fantasy or escape. Ultimately, comfort and happiness surface as they learn to accept the things they cannot change. (from Netflix.com)
----
Review of last week's film (Happy, Happy, 3.5 stars)Steven says: For our main characters, happiness is a masquerade. It often takes external forces to help one figure out that happy is a matter of perspective, of circumstance and of choice. The journey from point A to point B is messy, sometimes funny, and educational. And by the time you end up at point B, maybe, just maybe you truly are happy, or at least headed in the right direction. "Happy, Happy" shows four people on this journey in a tightly woven narrative interspersed with its own version of an ironic Greek (aka bluegrass gospel quartet) chorus. You know these people. You might even be these people. Where is your happy?
Director: Bohdan Slama
Origin: Czech Republic
Language: Czech
Running time: 102 min
Monika (Tatiana Vilhelmova), Tonik (Pavel Liska) and Dasha (Anna Geislerova) are three friends from a small working-class Czech town. Living in a depressed cloud of industrialization spewed from one of the country's largest chemical factories, the trio dreams of a brighter life, each of the three finding solace through love, fantasy or escape. Ultimately, comfort and happiness surface as they learn to accept the things they cannot change. (from Netflix.com)
----
Review of last week's film (Happy, Happy, 3.5 stars)Steven says: For our main characters, happiness is a masquerade. It often takes external forces to help one figure out that happy is a matter of perspective, of circumstance and of choice. The journey from point A to point B is messy, sometimes funny, and educational. And by the time you end up at point B, maybe, just maybe you truly are happy, or at least headed in the right direction. "Happy, Happy" shows four people on this journey in a tightly woven narrative interspersed with its own version of an ironic Greek (aka bluegrass gospel quartet) chorus. You know these people. You might even be these people. Where is your happy?
Sunday, July 8, 2012
July 11, 2012 - "Happy, Happy" (2010)
Happy Happy, 2010
Director: Anne Sewitsky
Origin: Norway
Languages: Norwegian | Danish | German
Running time: 85 min
Set in a remote Norwegian town, this black comedy centers on cheerful housewife Kaja (Agnes Kittlesen), who is contentedly wedded to her loveless high school sweetheart but lands in hot water when a risqué encounter with her urbane new neighbor, Sigve (Henrik Rafaelsen), goes too far. With a full-blown affair on her hands and Christmas just around the corner, Kaja falls back on blinding optimism to get her through the snowballing scandal. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated R for sexual content including brief graphic nudity
U.S. box office: $44,947
Director: Anne Sewitsky
Origin: Norway
Languages: Norwegian | Danish | German
Running time: 85 min
Set in a remote Norwegian town, this black comedy centers on cheerful housewife Kaja (Agnes Kittlesen), who is contentedly wedded to her loveless high school sweetheart but lands in hot water when a risqué encounter with her urbane new neighbor, Sigve (Henrik Rafaelsen), goes too far. With a full-blown affair on her hands and Christmas just around the corner, Kaja falls back on blinding optimism to get her through the snowballing scandal. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated R for sexual content including brief graphic nudity
U.S. box office: $44,947
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
June 27, 2012 - "Electric Shadows" (2005)
Electric Shadows, 2005
Director: Jiang Xiao
Origin: China
Language: Mandarin
Running time: 93 min
Set in modern-day Beijing and 1970s Ningxia, director Xiao Jiang's debut feature explores the power of movies in launching dreams and creating memories. After a bicycle collision leaves Mao Dabing (Xia Yu) with a lump on his head, he promises Ling Ling (Qi Zhongyang), the girl he hit, that he'll care for her fish while she's recuperating. When he stumbles across her diary, he learns the truth about her past -- which rekindles his love of cinema. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $7,129
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Review of last week's film (Martha Marcy May Marlene, 4 stars)
Steven says: Anchored by a great performance by Mary-Kate and Ashley's younger sister, Elizabeth Olsen, this movie messes with your head. What's real? What's a memory? What is simply paranoia? One viewer compared it to Charles Manson's "Helter Skelter". While I don't always like flashbacks, they served real purpose in this film, a way for us to sympathize with the main character, even as those around her seem oblivious to her real needs. Lots of great interpretations for the ending, too.
Director: Jiang Xiao
Origin: China
Language: Mandarin
Running time: 93 min
Set in modern-day Beijing and 1970s Ningxia, director Xiao Jiang's debut feature explores the power of movies in launching dreams and creating memories. After a bicycle collision leaves Mao Dabing (Xia Yu) with a lump on his head, he promises Ling Ling (Qi Zhongyang), the girl he hit, that he'll care for her fish while she's recuperating. When he stumbles across her diary, he learns the truth about her past -- which rekindles his love of cinema. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $7,129
-----
Review of last week's film (Martha Marcy May Marlene, 4 stars)
Steven says: Anchored by a great performance by Mary-Kate and Ashley's younger sister, Elizabeth Olsen, this movie messes with your head. What's real? What's a memory? What is simply paranoia? One viewer compared it to Charles Manson's "Helter Skelter". While I don't always like flashbacks, they served real purpose in this film, a way for us to sympathize with the main character, even as those around her seem oblivious to her real needs. Lots of great interpretations for the ending, too.
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
June 20, 2012 - "Martha Marcy May Marlene" (2011)
Martha Marcy May Marlene, 2011
Director: T. Sean Durkin
Origin: USA
Language: English
Running time: 102 min
After escaping from a violent cult in rural New York, Martha (Elizabeth Olsen) tries to reconnect with her estranged sister, Lucy (Sarah Paulson), and Lucy's well-to-do husband, Ted (Hugh Dancy), but the brainwashing she endured continues to prevent her from forming an identity of her own. Overwhelmed with paranoia, guilt and shame, Martha isolates herself until Lucy begins to suspect her sister's emotional trauma has deeper underlying causes. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated R for disturbing violent and sexual content, nudity and language
U.S. box office: $2,981,638
---
Rating for last week's film ("The Way I Spent the End of the World", 3.5 stars)
Steven says: I'm pretty sure that the Romanian people understood this movie more than our Cinematheque audience. And yet, the almost chaotic story telling could be seen as a mirror to the way of life for the Romanian people under the rule of Nicolae Ceausescu. Through their personal interactions, the main characters personify the relationship of the people to the government. They also offer multiple perspectives from which to view the tyranny of the regime. Interesting stuff . . . and made better by discussion afterward. The two main characters - Eva and Lalaliu - were great, as well.
Director: T. Sean Durkin
Origin: USA
Language: English
Running time: 102 min
After escaping from a violent cult in rural New York, Martha (Elizabeth Olsen) tries to reconnect with her estranged sister, Lucy (Sarah Paulson), and Lucy's well-to-do husband, Ted (Hugh Dancy), but the brainwashing she endured continues to prevent her from forming an identity of her own. Overwhelmed with paranoia, guilt and shame, Martha isolates herself until Lucy begins to suspect her sister's emotional trauma has deeper underlying causes. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated R for disturbing violent and sexual content, nudity and language
U.S. box office: $2,981,638
---
Rating for last week's film ("The Way I Spent the End of the World", 3.5 stars)
Steven says: I'm pretty sure that the Romanian people understood this movie more than our Cinematheque audience. And yet, the almost chaotic story telling could be seen as a mirror to the way of life for the Romanian people under the rule of Nicolae Ceausescu. Through their personal interactions, the main characters personify the relationship of the people to the government. They also offer multiple perspectives from which to view the tyranny of the regime. Interesting stuff . . . and made better by discussion afterward. The two main characters - Eva and Lalaliu - were great, as well.
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
June 13, 2012 - "The Way I Spent the End of the World" (2006)
June 13, 2012
"The Way I Spent the End of the World" (2006)
Director: Catalin Mitulescu
Origin: Romania | France
Language: Romanian
Running time: 106 min
In 1989 Romania, plucky 17-year-old Eva Matei (Doroteea Petre) comes of age as she schemes to escape the country's tyranny with help from her recalcitrant neighbor (Cristian Vararu). Meanwhile, as her parents endure the brutal dictatorship of Nicolae Ceausescu, Eva's 7-year-old brother (Timotei Duma) plots to kill the despot. Writer-director Catalin Mitulescu's powerful, astute feature debut also stars Ionut Becheru and Mircea Diaconu. (from Netflix.com)
(This film was carried forward from the opening of the season, when it had to be replaced because of broken DVD.)
------
Review of last week's film (The Human Resources Manager, 3.5 stars)
Steven says: Director Eran Riklis set the bar high with his two previous films, "Lemon Tree" and "The Syrian Bride". In this film, he again tries to find the commonalities between different cultures by focusing on individuals and their personal struggles. He may have stretched too far, because the story doesn't always feel like it's on sound footing. But the underlying motivations and emotions of the main character, especially as they evolve, keep the story going. Some may call the story slow-moving; I call it unfolding.
"The Way I Spent the End of the World" (2006)
Director: Catalin Mitulescu
Origin: Romania | France
Language: Romanian
Running time: 106 min
In 1989 Romania, plucky 17-year-old Eva Matei (Doroteea Petre) comes of age as she schemes to escape the country's tyranny with help from her recalcitrant neighbor (Cristian Vararu). Meanwhile, as her parents endure the brutal dictatorship of Nicolae Ceausescu, Eva's 7-year-old brother (Timotei Duma) plots to kill the despot. Writer-director Catalin Mitulescu's powerful, astute feature debut also stars Ionut Becheru and Mircea Diaconu. (from Netflix.com)
(This film was carried forward from the opening of the season, when it had to be replaced because of broken DVD.)
------
Review of last week's film (The Human Resources Manager, 3.5 stars)
Steven says: Director Eran Riklis set the bar high with his two previous films, "Lemon Tree" and "The Syrian Bride". In this film, he again tries to find the commonalities between different cultures by focusing on individuals and their personal struggles. He may have stretched too far, because the story doesn't always feel like it's on sound footing. But the underlying motivations and emotions of the main character, especially as they evolve, keep the story going. Some may call the story slow-moving; I call it unfolding.
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
June 6, 2012 - "The Human Resources Manager" (2010)
The Human Resources Manager, 2010
Director: Eran Riklis
Origin: Israel | Germany | France | Romania
Languages: Hebrew | English | Romanian | French
Running time: 103 min
This beautifully shot film combines comedy and tragedy in the tale of a workaholic human resources manager (Mark Ivanir) who neglects his family to further his career. But when an employee at his bakery is killed, he begins an odd journey toward self-realization. Offering to escort the woman's body from Israel back to her Eastern European homeland, the manager is puzzled by eccentric characters along the way but begins to understand the importance of family. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $63,709
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
-----
Review of last week's film (The Skin I live In, 3.5 stars)
Steven says: Pedro Almodovar is such a name in European cinema, he no longer has to use his first name. After a misfire with his previous film, he returns to form with his newest offering, with a pretty wacko twist. The film was painstakingly made (the sets and props are great), and the imagery is top notch. The story is over the top but can generate lots of discussion about personality labels, the skin you are comfortable in, and the value of outward appearances.
Director: Eran Riklis
Origin: Israel | Germany | France | Romania
Languages: Hebrew | English | Romanian | French
Running time: 103 min
This beautifully shot film combines comedy and tragedy in the tale of a workaholic human resources manager (Mark Ivanir) who neglects his family to further his career. But when an employee at his bakery is killed, he begins an odd journey toward self-realization. Offering to escort the woman's body from Israel back to her Eastern European homeland, the manager is puzzled by eccentric characters along the way but begins to understand the importance of family. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $63,709
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
-----
Review of last week's film (The Skin I live In, 3.5 stars)
Steven says: Pedro Almodovar is such a name in European cinema, he no longer has to use his first name. After a misfire with his previous film, he returns to form with his newest offering, with a pretty wacko twist. The film was painstakingly made (the sets and props are great), and the imagery is top notch. The story is over the top but can generate lots of discussion about personality labels, the skin you are comfortable in, and the value of outward appearances.
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
May 30, 2012 - "The Skin I Live In" (2011)
The Skin I Live In, 2011
Director: Pedro Almodovar
Origin: Spain
Language: Spanish
Running time: 117 min
Brilliant plastic surgeon Robert Ledgard seeks to overcome the grief of his late wife's disfigurement in a fiery car crash by inventing skin that's impervious to injury. But his experiments on a living woman hasten his descent into madness. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated R for disturbing violent content including sexual assault, strong sexuality, graphic nudity, drug use and language
U.S. box office: $3,185,193
----------
(Review of last week's film: Beginners, 5 stars)
Steven says: A perfect exploration of grief through the eyes of a 38-year-old man who has relationship issues of his own. It feels realistic from beginning to end -- nothing too far-fetched or melodramatic, just day-to-day life that resonates. We are all beginners through several stages of our lives. Sometimes we're forced to start something that we've never tried before. Other times, we choose, finally, to do something differently, creating our own beginnings.
Director: Pedro Almodovar
Origin: Spain
Language: Spanish
Running time: 117 min
Brilliant plastic surgeon Robert Ledgard seeks to overcome the grief of his late wife's disfigurement in a fiery car crash by inventing skin that's impervious to injury. But his experiments on a living woman hasten his descent into madness. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated R for disturbing violent content including sexual assault, strong sexuality, graphic nudity, drug use and language
U.S. box office: $3,185,193
----------
(Review of last week's film: Beginners, 5 stars)
Steven says: A perfect exploration of grief through the eyes of a 38-year-old man who has relationship issues of his own. It feels realistic from beginning to end -- nothing too far-fetched or melodramatic, just day-to-day life that resonates. We are all beginners through several stages of our lives. Sometimes we're forced to start something that we've never tried before. Other times, we choose, finally, to do something differently, creating our own beginnings.
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
May 23, 2012 - "Beginners" (2010)
Beginners, 2010
Director: Mike Mills
Origin: USA
Languages: English | French
Running time: 105 min
Based on indie director Mike Mills's relationship with his father, this intriguing drama tells the story of Oliver (Ewan McGregor), a graphic artist coming to grips with the imminent death of his father (Christopher Plummer), who, at 75, has one last secret: He's gay. Both inspired and confused by his father's determination to find true love at last, Oliver tentatively pursues a romance with commitment-shy French actress Anna (Mélanie Laurent). (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated R for language and some sexual content
U.S. box office: $5,790,894
---
Review of last week's film ("The Wave", 3 stars)
Steven says: This offering was a little too overt for my taste, but the main theme of the film speaks volumes. What does it take to mold a group of unconnected students into a community that believes that the group is better than the individual, and who wants to be a force for something. Anything. A teacher finds out in a classroom project that goes beyond the classroom.
Director: Mike Mills
Origin: USA
Languages: English | French
Running time: 105 min
Based on indie director Mike Mills's relationship with his father, this intriguing drama tells the story of Oliver (Ewan McGregor), a graphic artist coming to grips with the imminent death of his father (Christopher Plummer), who, at 75, has one last secret: He's gay. Both inspired and confused by his father's determination to find true love at last, Oliver tentatively pursues a romance with commitment-shy French actress Anna (Mélanie Laurent). (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated R for language and some sexual content
U.S. box office: $5,790,894
---
Review of last week's film ("The Wave", 3 stars)
Steven says: This offering was a little too overt for my taste, but the main theme of the film speaks volumes. What does it take to mold a group of unconnected students into a community that believes that the group is better than the individual, and who wants to be a force for something. Anything. A teacher finds out in a classroom project that goes beyond the classroom.
Monday, May 14, 2012
Announcing the Summer 2012 season . . .
Cinematheque for All – Summer 2012
The Summer 2012 Season is May 16 – August 8, 2012. All screenings for this season begin at 7:00 p.m. in Stanley Coulter Hall, Room 239, 640 Oval Drive, on the Purdue University campus. Parking is available in the University Street parking garage.
The Summer 2012 Season is May 16 – August 8, 2012. All screenings for this season begin at 7:00 p.m. in Stanley Coulter Hall, Room 239, 640 Oval Drive, on the Purdue University campus. Parking is available in the University Street parking garage.
- Wednesday, May 16, 2012, The Wave, 2008, directed by Dennis Gansel; Origin: German; Language(s): German; Running time: 107 min
- Wednesday, May 23, 2012, Beginners, 2010, directed by Mike Mills; Origin: USA; Language(s): English | French; Running time: 105 min
- Wednesday, May 30, 2012, The Skin I Live In, 2011,directed by Pedro Almodovar; Origin: Spain; Language(s): Spanish; Running time: 117 min
- Wednesday, June 6, 2012, The Human Resources Manager, 2010, directed by Eran Riklis; Origin: Israel | Germany | France | Romania; Language(s): Hebrew | English | Romanian | French; Running time: 103 min
- Wednesday, June 13, 2012, The Way I Spent the End of the World, 2006, directed by Catalin Mitulescu; Origin: Romania | France; Language(s): Romanian; Running time: 106 min
- Wednesday, June 20, 2012, Martha Marcy May Marline, 2011, directed by T. Sean Durkin; Origin: USA; Language(s): English ; Running time: 102 min
- Wednesday, June 27, 2012, Electric Shadows, 2005, directed by Jiang Xiao; Origin: China; Language(s): Mandarin ; Running time: 93 min
- Wednesday, July 4,2 012, NO SCREENING
- Wednesday, July 11, 2012, Happy Happy, 2010, directed by Anne Sewitsky; Origin: Norway; Language(s): Norwegian | Danish | German; Running time: 85 min
- Wednesday, July 18, 2012, Something Like Happiness, 2005, directed by Bohdan Slama; Origin: Czech Republic; Language(s): Czech; Running time: 102 min
- Wednesday, July 25, 2012, Yi Yi, 2000, directed by Edward Yang; Origin: Taiwan | Japan; Language(s): Mandarin | Hokkien; Running time: 173 min
- Wednesday, August 1, 2012, The Tree, 2010, directed by Julie Bertuccelli; Origin: France | Australia | Germany | Italy; Language(s): English; Running time: 100 min
- Wednesday, August 8, 2012, The Time That Remains, 2011, directed by Elia Suleiman; Origin: UK; Language(s): Arabic | Hebrew | English; Running time: 109 min
Sunday, May 13, 2012
May 16, 2012 - "The Way I Spent the End of the World" (2006)
"The Way I Spent the End of the World" (2006)
Director: Catalin Mitulescu
Origin: Romania | France
Language: Romanian
Running time: 106 min
In 1989 Romania, plucky 17-year-old Eva Matei (Doroteea Petre) comes of age as she schemes to escape the country's tyranny with help from her recalcitrant neighbor (Cristian Vararu). Meanwhile, as her parents endure the brutal dictatorship of Nicolae Ceausescu, Eva's 7-year-old brother (Timotei Duma) plots to kill the despot. Writer-director Catalin Mitulescu's powerful, astute feature debut also stars Ionut Becheru and Mircea Diaconu. (from Netflix.com)
Director: Catalin Mitulescu
Origin: Romania | France
Language: Romanian
Running time: 106 min
In 1989 Romania, plucky 17-year-old Eva Matei (Doroteea Petre) comes of age as she schemes to escape the country's tyranny with help from her recalcitrant neighbor (Cristian Vararu). Meanwhile, as her parents endure the brutal dictatorship of Nicolae Ceausescu, Eva's 7-year-old brother (Timotei Duma) plots to kill the despot. Writer-director Catalin Mitulescu's powerful, astute feature debut also stars Ionut Becheru and Mircea Diaconu. (from Netflix.com)
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
May 2, 2012 - "A Somewhat Gentle Man" (2010)
A Somewhat Gentle Man, 2010
Director: Hans Petter Moland
Origin: Norway
Language: Norwegian
Running time: 105 min
With revenge on his mind, a gangster (Stellan Skarsgård) who spent 12 years in prison for murder sets out to kill the man (Henrik Mestad) who put him there. But the promise of a normal life -- and news that he's on the brink of becoming a grandfather -- proves a tempting distraction. Suddenly, seeking vengeance doesn't seem nearly as important. Hans Petter Moland directs this Norwegian drama about sons and second chances. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $37,543
Watch the trailer on Netflix.
----
Review of last week's film ("The City of Your Final Destination", four stars)
Steven says: Directed by James Ivory, starring Anthony Hopkins, Laura Linney and Charlotte Ginsbourg -- that's all you have to say to make this a must-see film. The actors do not disappoint, and the story, though farfetched, is realistically told. The characters are fully developed, even as we wonder about their motivations and pasts (which makes me want to read the book). I wholeheartedly recommend this film.
Read more about the book upon which the movie is based.
Director: Hans Petter Moland
Origin: Norway
Language: Norwegian
Running time: 105 min
With revenge on his mind, a gangster (Stellan Skarsgård) who spent 12 years in prison for murder sets out to kill the man (Henrik Mestad) who put him there. But the promise of a normal life -- and news that he's on the brink of becoming a grandfather -- proves a tempting distraction. Suddenly, seeking vengeance doesn't seem nearly as important. Hans Petter Moland directs this Norwegian drama about sons and second chances. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $37,543
Watch the trailer on Netflix.
----
Review of last week's film ("The City of Your Final Destination", four stars)
Steven says: Directed by James Ivory, starring Anthony Hopkins, Laura Linney and Charlotte Ginsbourg -- that's all you have to say to make this a must-see film. The actors do not disappoint, and the story, though farfetched, is realistically told. The characters are fully developed, even as we wonder about their motivations and pasts (which makes me want to read the book). I wholeheartedly recommend this film.
Read more about the book upon which the movie is based.
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
April 25, 2012 - "The City of Your Final Destination" (2009)
The City of your Final Destination, 2009
Director: James Ivory
Origin: USA
Languages: English | Spanish | French
Running time: 117 min
After duping school officials into awarding him a grant to write a biography on novelist Jules Gund, grad student Omar Razaghi (Omar Metwally) must travel to Uruguay to get legitimate authorization from the late author's three executors. James Ivory (A Room with a View) directs this moving adaptation of author Peter Cameron's novel of the same name. Anthony Hopkins, Laura Linney and Charlotte Gainsbourg also star. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated PG-13 for a brief sexual situation with partial nudity
Watch the trailer at IMDB.com.
----
Review of last week's movie, "The Trip" (four stars)
Steven says: I think the Rotten Tomatoes write-up says it best: Amiable, funny and sometimes insightful, The Trip works as both a showcase for the enduring chemistry between stars Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon and an unexpected perusal of men entering mid-life crises.
Director: James Ivory
Origin: USA
Languages: English | Spanish | French
Running time: 117 min
After duping school officials into awarding him a grant to write a biography on novelist Jules Gund, grad student Omar Razaghi (Omar Metwally) must travel to Uruguay to get legitimate authorization from the late author's three executors. James Ivory (A Room with a View) directs this moving adaptation of author Peter Cameron's novel of the same name. Anthony Hopkins, Laura Linney and Charlotte Gainsbourg also star. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated PG-13 for a brief sexual situation with partial nudity
Watch the trailer at IMDB.com.
----
Review of last week's movie, "The Trip" (four stars)
Steven says: I think the Rotten Tomatoes write-up says it best: Amiable, funny and sometimes insightful, The Trip works as both a showcase for the enduring chemistry between stars Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon and an unexpected perusal of men entering mid-life crises.
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
April 18, 2012 - "The Trip" (2010)
The Trip, 2010
Director: Michael Winterbottom
Origin: UK
Language: English
Running time: 107 min
Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon, the stars of the 2005 comedy Tristram Shandy, reunite with director Michael Winterbottom for this mockumentary about a pair of actors -- handily named Steve and Rob -- who embark on a foodie road trip across England. Mostly improvised and highlighting the duo's penchant for dueling impressions of famous actors, the film follows them as they test their friendship while sampling the best restaurants in Northern England. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $2,014,922
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
--
Review of last week's film (The Keys to the House, 3.5 stars)
Steven says: A great look at parents (new or not) of children with disabilities. Honest portrayals, interesting insights, and great scenes between father and son. Worth a viewing.
Director: Michael Winterbottom
Origin: UK
Language: English
Running time: 107 min
Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon, the stars of the 2005 comedy Tristram Shandy, reunite with director Michael Winterbottom for this mockumentary about a pair of actors -- handily named Steve and Rob -- who embark on a foodie road trip across England. Mostly improvised and highlighting the duo's penchant for dueling impressions of famous actors, the film follows them as they test their friendship while sampling the best restaurants in Northern England. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $2,014,922
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
--
Review of last week's film (The Keys to the House, 3.5 stars)
Steven says: A great look at parents (new or not) of children with disabilities. Honest portrayals, interesting insights, and great scenes between father and son. Worth a viewing.
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
April 11, 2012 - "The Keys to the House" (2004)
The Keys to the House, 2004
Director: Gianni Amelio
Origin: Italy | Germany | France
Languages: Italian | German | French | English
Running time: 105 min
After his wife dies giving birth to their mentally and physically handicapped son, Paolo (Andrea Rossi), Gianni (Kim Rossi Stuart) finds he's unable to cope with his duties as a father. Fifteen years later, he returns to mend his fractured relationship with his son. Rebuilding a bond won't be easy, but Gianni's friendship with the mother of a disabled child provides the support he's been looking for and the tools he needs to make amends. (from Netflix.com)
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
-----
Review of last week's film ("Roads to Koktebel", 3 stars)
Steven says: A road movie, from Moscow to Koktebel, told in vignettes. It's a hard life brought on by death and alcoholism, and we see the aftermath of those events unfold. The wishful thinking of the child only proves to create more disappointment. Simply told, creatively shot and open to several interpretations.
Director: Gianni Amelio
Origin: Italy | Germany | France
Languages: Italian | German | French | English
Running time: 105 min
After his wife dies giving birth to their mentally and physically handicapped son, Paolo (Andrea Rossi), Gianni (Kim Rossi Stuart) finds he's unable to cope with his duties as a father. Fifteen years later, he returns to mend his fractured relationship with his son. Rebuilding a bond won't be easy, but Gianni's friendship with the mother of a disabled child provides the support he's been looking for and the tools he needs to make amends. (from Netflix.com)
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
-----
Review of last week's film ("Roads to Koktebel", 3 stars)
Steven says: A road movie, from Moscow to Koktebel, told in vignettes. It's a hard life brought on by death and alcoholism, and we see the aftermath of those events unfold. The wishful thinking of the child only proves to create more disappointment. Simply told, creatively shot and open to several interpretations.
Thursday, March 29, 2012
April 4, 2012 - "Roads to Koktebel" (2003)
Roads to Koktebel, 2003
Directors: Boris Khlebnikov, Aleksei Popogrebsky
Origin: Russia
Language: Russian
Running time: 100 min
This contemplative drama follows an unemployed alcoholic widower (Igor Csernyevics) and his 11-year-old son (Gleb Puskepalis) as they set off on a meandering road trip to Koktebel, a beach town on the Black Sea. While the father is happy to gradually make their way through the Russian countryside -- trying to bond with his son along the way -- the single-minded boy is eager to reach Koktebel, where he hopes they'll be able to get a fresh start.(from Netflix.com)
Watch the trailer on YouTube.
Read the Wikipedia entry on Koktebel (the city).
-------
Review of last week's film (Inch' Allah Dimanche, 3.5 stars)
Steven says:The script had us laughing one minute, fearing for the main character the next, and scratching our heads the next. Yet another movie tackles the fish-out-of-water, immigrant-culture clash genre, this time in 1974 France as families of Algerian workers are allowed to reunite with their husbands/sons in France. We see four different women who have different worries that consume their lives while French society is experiencing social change. It's a film to watch, to wonder about, and to enjoy more for its details, subtleties and charms than for its overall plot and message.
Directors: Boris Khlebnikov, Aleksei Popogrebsky
Origin: Russia
Language: Russian
Running time: 100 min
This contemplative drama follows an unemployed alcoholic widower (Igor Csernyevics) and his 11-year-old son (Gleb Puskepalis) as they set off on a meandering road trip to Koktebel, a beach town on the Black Sea. While the father is happy to gradually make their way through the Russian countryside -- trying to bond with his son along the way -- the single-minded boy is eager to reach Koktebel, where he hopes they'll be able to get a fresh start.(from Netflix.com)
Watch the trailer on YouTube.
Read the Wikipedia entry on Koktebel (the city).
-------
Review of last week's film (Inch' Allah Dimanche, 3.5 stars)
Steven says:The script had us laughing one minute, fearing for the main character the next, and scratching our heads the next. Yet another movie tackles the fish-out-of-water, immigrant-culture clash genre, this time in 1974 France as families of Algerian workers are allowed to reunite with their husbands/sons in France. We see four different women who have different worries that consume their lives while French society is experiencing social change. It's a film to watch, to wonder about, and to enjoy more for its details, subtleties and charms than for its overall plot and message.
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
March 28, 2012 - "Inch' Allah Dimanche" (2001)
Inch' Allah Dimanche, 2001
Director: Yamina Benguigui
Origin: France | Algeria
Languages: Arabic | French
Running time: 98 min
French-Algerian director Yamina Benguigi brings us the passionate story of an immigrant struggling against old world traditions. Zouina (Fjeria Deliba) leaves her homeland with her three children to join her husband in France, where he's been living for the past 10 years. In a land and culture foreign to her, Zouina struggles against her mother-in-law's tyrannical hand and her husband's distrustful bitterness as she adjusts to her life in exile. (from Netflix.com)
Watch the trailer on YouTube.
-----
Review of last week's film ("When We Leave", 4 stars)Steven says: Great acting from the lead actress and a heartbreaking story line about families choosing between a daughter or the "community." Not easily forgettable.
Director: Yamina Benguigui
Origin: France | Algeria
Languages: Arabic | French
Running time: 98 min
French-Algerian director Yamina Benguigi brings us the passionate story of an immigrant struggling against old world traditions. Zouina (Fjeria Deliba) leaves her homeland with her three children to join her husband in France, where he's been living for the past 10 years. In a land and culture foreign to her, Zouina struggles against her mother-in-law's tyrannical hand and her husband's distrustful bitterness as she adjusts to her life in exile. (from Netflix.com)
Watch the trailer on YouTube.
-----
Review of last week's film ("When We Leave", 4 stars)Steven says: Great acting from the lead actress and a heartbreaking story line about families choosing between a daughter or the "community." Not easily forgettable.
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
March 21, 2012 - "When We Leave" (2010)
When We Leave, 2010
Director: Feo Aladag
Origin: German
Languages: German | Turkish
Running time: 119 min
Umay, 25, is torn between two cultures when she leaves her abusive husband and takes their young son, Cem, from Istanbul to her family home in Germany. Seeking refuge with her parents, Umay hopes to start anew, but her family disapproves. She finds work in a restaurant and falls in love with a German co-worker, Stipe, who happily welcomes her and Cem into his life, but turmoil erupts when Umay's family decides to return Cem to his father. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $14,128
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
--
Review of last week's film, "Lake Tahoe"
Steven said:
You find yourself asking "why?" and "is this it?", and then suddenly it all makes sense. Nothing is concrete, but everything is there to help you experience a day with a troubled teen in what seems to be a desolate landscape. It is a gem of a film, yes, and it is more nuanced then it initially seems.
Director: Feo Aladag
Origin: German
Languages: German | Turkish
Running time: 119 min
Umay, 25, is torn between two cultures when she leaves her abusive husband and takes their young son, Cem, from Istanbul to her family home in Germany. Seeking refuge with her parents, Umay hopes to start anew, but her family disapproves. She finds work in a restaurant and falls in love with a German co-worker, Stipe, who happily welcomes her and Cem into his life, but turmoil erupts when Umay's family decides to return Cem to his father. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $14,128
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
--
Review of last week's film, "Lake Tahoe"
Steven said:
You find yourself asking "why?" and "is this it?", and then suddenly it all makes sense. Nothing is concrete, but everything is there to help you experience a day with a troubled teen in what seems to be a desolate landscape. It is a gem of a film, yes, and it is more nuanced then it initially seems.
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
March 14, 2012 - "Lake Tahoe" (2008)
Lake Tahoe, 2008
Director: Fernando Eimbcke
Origin: Mexico | Japan | USA
Languages: Spanish | English
Running time: 89 min
When he wraps the family car around a telephone pole on the outskirts of his small town, teenager Juan (Diego Cantaño) searches for help but finds himself thrust into a strange odyssey filled with unusual characters. Writer-director Fernando Eimbcke's award-winning indie dramedy also stars Hector Herrera as quirky mechanic Don Heber and Daniela Valentine as wannabe punk star Lucia. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $5,685
Watch the trailer at IMDB.
Director: Fernando Eimbcke
Origin: Mexico | Japan | USA
Languages: Spanish | English
Running time: 89 min
When he wraps the family car around a telephone pole on the outskirts of his small town, teenager Juan (Diego Cantaño) searches for help but finds himself thrust into a strange odyssey filled with unusual characters. Writer-director Fernando Eimbcke's award-winning indie dramedy also stars Hector Herrera as quirky mechanic Don Heber and Daniela Valentine as wannabe punk star Lucia. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $5,685
Watch the trailer at IMDB.
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
March 7, 2012 - "Grbavica: the Land of My Dreams" (2006)
Grbavica: the land of my dreams, 2006
Director: Jasmila Zbanic
Origin: Bosnia and Herzegovina | Croatia | Austria | Germany
Language: Bosnian
Running time: 107 min
In the aftermath of the Balkan War, a widowed seamstress named Esma (Mirjana Karanovic) takes a waitress job to help pay for a pricey school trip for her daughter Sara (Luna Mijovic). While Esma ponders a romance with a co-worker (Leon Lucev), she also copes with Sara's budding adolescence. Writer-director Jasmila Zbanic's gut-wrenching drama was the surprise winner of the Berlin Film Festival's prestigious Golden Bear award. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $43,060
Watch the trailer at Netflix.
----
Review of last weeks' film:
The Celebration (1998) - three stars
Steven says: A well-to-do family gathers for a birthday bash. The bash is bashed by a revelation, which, as the party unravels, threatens to mar the entire event. But these party-goers are resilient. Not sure how realistic the story line is, but it keeps you guessing. I'm still not sure who should receive the most sympathy.
Director: Jasmila Zbanic
Origin: Bosnia and Herzegovina | Croatia | Austria | Germany
Language: Bosnian
Running time: 107 min
In the aftermath of the Balkan War, a widowed seamstress named Esma (Mirjana Karanovic) takes a waitress job to help pay for a pricey school trip for her daughter Sara (Luna Mijovic). While Esma ponders a romance with a co-worker (Leon Lucev), she also copes with Sara's budding adolescence. Writer-director Jasmila Zbanic's gut-wrenching drama was the surprise winner of the Berlin Film Festival's prestigious Golden Bear award. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $43,060
Watch the trailer at Netflix.
----
Review of last weeks' film:
The Celebration (1998) - three stars
Steven says: A well-to-do family gathers for a birthday bash. The bash is bashed by a revelation, which, as the party unravels, threatens to mar the entire event. But these party-goers are resilient. Not sure how realistic the story line is, but it keeps you guessing. I'm still not sure who should receive the most sympathy.
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
February 29, 2012 - "The Celebration" (1998)
Because of a shipping issue, our screening of "The Celebration" will take place Feb. 29 instead of its originally scheduled date.
Read about the film in the original blog post.
-----
Review of last week's film, "The Tree of LIfe" (3.5 stars)
Steven says: Oddly compelling and visually stunning, this film throws a lot at you. A simple story line is elevated to allegory. We see depictions of nature and grace and how they coexist in life, from creation to present day. Grandiose at times, the film speaks to certain audience members more than others. I particularly enjoyed the cinematography and imagery within confines of the 1950s story line. I polled the audience for ratings, and they ranged from 2 to 5+ on a scale of 1 to 5.
Read about the film in the original blog post.
-----
Review of last week's film, "The Tree of LIfe" (3.5 stars)
Steven says: Oddly compelling and visually stunning, this film throws a lot at you. A simple story line is elevated to allegory. We see depictions of nature and grace and how they coexist in life, from creation to present day. Grandiose at times, the film speaks to certain audience members more than others. I particularly enjoyed the cinematography and imagery within confines of the 1950s story line. I polled the audience for ratings, and they ranged from 2 to 5+ on a scale of 1 to 5.
New title for Feb. 22
Because of shipping issues, we will screen "The Tree of Life" tonight. The originally scheduled film for tonight, "The Celebration", will be screened next week, Feb. 29.
Cinematheque for All takes place at 7 p.m., February 22, in Forney Hall of Chemical Engineering, Room B124, 480 Stadium Mall Drive, on the Purdue University campus.
"The Tree of Life" synopsis:
Brad Pitt and Sean Penn star in Terrence Malick's 1950s adventure about a confused man named Jack, who sets off on a journey to understand the true nature of the world. Growing up in the Midwest with two brothers, Jack has always been torn between his mother's guidance to approach everything he encounters with an open heart and his father's advice to look after his own interests. Now, Jack must find a way to regain purpose and perspective. (from Netflix.com)
Thank you for understanding.
Steven
Cinematheque for All takes place at 7 p.m., February 22, in Forney Hall of Chemical Engineering, Room B124, 480 Stadium Mall Drive, on the Purdue University campus.
"The Tree of Life" synopsis:
Brad Pitt and Sean Penn star in Terrence Malick's 1950s adventure about a confused man named Jack, who sets off on a journey to understand the true nature of the world. Growing up in the Midwest with two brothers, Jack has always been torn between his mother's guidance to approach everything he encounters with an open heart and his father's advice to look after his own interests. Now, Jack must find a way to regain purpose and perspective. (from Netflix.com)
Thank you for understanding.
Steven
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
February 22, 2012 - "The Celebration" (1998)
The Celebration, 1998
Director: Thomas Vinterberg
Origin: Denmark | Sweden
Languages: Danish | German | English
Running time: 105 min
Director Thomas Vinterberg's winner of the Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival follows a Danish family as they gather for the 60th birthday of the family's patriarch, Helge (Henning Moritzen). But the celebration takes a dark turn following a shocking accusation. All three of Helge's children are present at the party, where it will be revealed quite publicly that son Christian (Ulrich Thomsen) has an axe to grind with the guest of honor (from Netflix.com).
MPAA rating: Rated R for strong sexual content and language, including references to sexual abuse
U.S. box office: $1,647,780
Watch the trailer at IMDB.
----
Review of last week's film ("Police, Adjective", 3 stars)
Steven says: This takes a person of patience, and one willing to find beauty in the details, to enjoy. Long takes of tracking suspects, waiting five minutes (literally) for someone to bring a dictionary. The viewer is put into the film by being made almost as uncomfortable and bored as the main character in spots. The discussions about language and its nuances are great.
Director: Thomas Vinterberg
Origin: Denmark | Sweden
Languages: Danish | German | English
Running time: 105 min
Director Thomas Vinterberg's winner of the Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival follows a Danish family as they gather for the 60th birthday of the family's patriarch, Helge (Henning Moritzen). But the celebration takes a dark turn following a shocking accusation. All three of Helge's children are present at the party, where it will be revealed quite publicly that son Christian (Ulrich Thomsen) has an axe to grind with the guest of honor (from Netflix.com).
MPAA rating: Rated R for strong sexual content and language, including references to sexual abuse
U.S. box office: $1,647,780
Watch the trailer at IMDB.
----
Review of last week's film ("Police, Adjective", 3 stars)
Steven says: This takes a person of patience, and one willing to find beauty in the details, to enjoy. Long takes of tracking suspects, waiting five minutes (literally) for someone to bring a dictionary. The viewer is put into the film by being made almost as uncomfortable and bored as the main character in spots. The discussions about language and its nuances are great.
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
February 15, 2012 - "Police, Adjective" (2009)
Police, Adjective, 2009
Director: Corneliu Porumboiu
Origin: Romania
Language: Romanian
Running time: 115 min
Undercover cop Cristi (Dragos Bucur) trails suspected pot dealer Victor (Radu Costin) through the decrepit streets of Vaslui, but when he learns that the suspect is just a teen who sometimes gets high with his pals, he refuses to make an arrest. Unfortunately, Cristi's boss (Ioan Stoica) isn't quite as forgiving. The Romanian New Wave rolls on strongly with this complex drama from writer-director Corneliu Porumboiu. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $48,298
Watch the trailer at IMDB.
------
Review of last week's film, "Incendies" (four stars)
Steven says: Promises. Breaking the cycle of violence. Logic and the illogical. Smash it all up, jump back and forth through time to discover a family's history, and be devastated and amazed throughout it all. That's "Incendies." A few hiccups in logic and storytelling are all that keep this from being a five-star film.
Director: Corneliu Porumboiu
Origin: Romania
Language: Romanian
Running time: 115 min
Undercover cop Cristi (Dragos Bucur) trails suspected pot dealer Victor (Radu Costin) through the decrepit streets of Vaslui, but when he learns that the suspect is just a teen who sometimes gets high with his pals, he refuses to make an arrest. Unfortunately, Cristi's boss (Ioan Stoica) isn't quite as forgiving. The Romanian New Wave rolls on strongly with this complex drama from writer-director Corneliu Porumboiu. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $48,298
Watch the trailer at IMDB.
------
Review of last week's film, "Incendies" (four stars)
Steven says: Promises. Breaking the cycle of violence. Logic and the illogical. Smash it all up, jump back and forth through time to discover a family's history, and be devastated and amazed throughout it all. That's "Incendies." A few hiccups in logic and storytelling are all that keep this from being a five-star film.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
February 8, 2012 - "Incendies" (2010)
Incendies, 2010
Director: Denis Villeneuve
Origin: Canada | France
Languages: French | Arabic | English
Running time: 130 min
When their mother's will implores them to deliver letters to the father they thought was dead and a brother they never knew about, twins Jeanne (Mélissa Désormeaux-Poulin) and Simon (Maxim Gaudette) journey to the Middle East and attempt to reconstruct their family's hidden history. Adapted from a Wajdi Mouawad play, director Denis Villeneuve's Oscar-nominated drama flashes back to intense scenes set during the Lebanese civil war in the 1970s. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated R for some strong violence and language
U.S. box office: $6,857,096
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
---
Review of last week's film, "Army of Crime" (4 stars)
Steven says: I always look for the "new" perspective of WWII films. In addition to the foreign influence in the French resistance, this film highlighted ways in which families were affected by the involvement in the resistance movement.
Director: Denis Villeneuve
Origin: Canada | France
Languages: French | Arabic | English
Running time: 130 min
When their mother's will implores them to deliver letters to the father they thought was dead and a brother they never knew about, twins Jeanne (Mélissa Désormeaux-Poulin) and Simon (Maxim Gaudette) journey to the Middle East and attempt to reconstruct their family's hidden history. Adapted from a Wajdi Mouawad play, director Denis Villeneuve's Oscar-nominated drama flashes back to intense scenes set during the Lebanese civil war in the 1970s. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated R for some strong violence and language
U.S. box office: $6,857,096
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
---
Review of last week's film, "Army of Crime" (4 stars)
Steven says: I always look for the "new" perspective of WWII films. In addition to the foreign influence in the French resistance, this film highlighted ways in which families were affected by the involvement in the resistance movement.
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
February 1, 2012 - "Army of Crime" (2009)
Army of Crime, 2009
Director: Robert Guediguian
Origin: France
Languages: French | German
Running time: 139 min
This gripping historical drama recounts the story of Armenian-born Missak Manouchian (Simon Abkarian), a woodworker and political activist who led an immigrant laborer division of the Parisian Resistance on 30 operations against the Nazis in 1943. The Nazis branded the group an Army of Crime, an anti-immigrant propaganda stunt that backfired as the team's members became martyrs for the Resistance. Virginie Ledoyen co-stars as Manouchian's wife. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $35,416
Watch the trailer at IMDB.
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Review of last week's film, "Alamar" (3.5 stars)
Steven says: As one of the movie's song lyrics says, "I'm not in a hurry to get there." That's the pace of the film, which allows you to really drink in this slow moving lifestyle of the fishermen in the movie. The stunning cinematography showcases the Banco Chinchorro coral reef, while the minimalist storyline pays homage to the lessons passed from father to son.
Director: Robert Guediguian
Origin: France
Languages: French | German
Running time: 139 min
This gripping historical drama recounts the story of Armenian-born Missak Manouchian (Simon Abkarian), a woodworker and political activist who led an immigrant laborer division of the Parisian Resistance on 30 operations against the Nazis in 1943. The Nazis branded the group an Army of Crime, an anti-immigrant propaganda stunt that backfired as the team's members became martyrs for the Resistance. Virginie Ledoyen co-stars as Manouchian's wife. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $35,416
Watch the trailer at IMDB.
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Review of last week's film, "Alamar" (3.5 stars)
Steven says: As one of the movie's song lyrics says, "I'm not in a hurry to get there." That's the pace of the film, which allows you to really drink in this slow moving lifestyle of the fishermen in the movie. The stunning cinematography showcases the Banco Chinchorro coral reef, while the minimalist storyline pays homage to the lessons passed from father to son.
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
January 25, 2012 - "Alamar" (2009)
Alamar, 2009
Director: Pedro González-Rubio
Origin: Mexico
Languages: Spanish | Italian
Running time: 73 min
Before his young son, Natan (Natan Machado Palombini), returns to Rome with his mother, Jorge (Jorge Machado) takes the boy on an extended journey to a tiny fishing village, where Natan learns to fish and snorkel amid the natural splendor of the Mexican Caribbean. Filmmaker Pedro González-Rubio's delicate family drama also stars Nestor Marin as veteran angler Matraca, as well as a colorful cast of crocodiles, tropical birds and iguanas. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $61,613
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Steve's rating of the January 18 film, "Aberdeen": 3.5 stars out of 5
Director: Pedro González-Rubio
Origin: Mexico
Languages: Spanish | Italian
Running time: 73 min
Before his young son, Natan (Natan Machado Palombini), returns to Rome with his mother, Jorge (Jorge Machado) takes the boy on an extended journey to a tiny fishing village, where Natan learns to fish and snorkel amid the natural splendor of the Mexican Caribbean. Filmmaker Pedro González-Rubio's delicate family drama also stars Nestor Marin as veteran angler Matraca, as well as a colorful cast of crocodiles, tropical birds and iguanas. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $61,613
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Steve's rating of the January 18 film, "Aberdeen": 3.5 stars out of 5
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Announcing the Winter 2012 season . . .
Cinematheque for All – Winter 2012
The Fall 2011 Season is January 11 – May 2, 2012. All screenings for this season begin at 7:00 p.m. in Forney Hall of Chemical Engineering, Room B124, 480 Stadium Mall Drive, on the Purdue University campus. Parking is available in the Northwestern Avenue parking garage.
The Fall 2011 Season is January 11 – May 2, 2012. All screenings for this season begin at 7:00 p.m. in Forney Hall of Chemical Engineering, Room B124, 480 Stadium Mall Drive, on the Purdue University campus. Parking is available in the Northwestern Avenue parking garage.
- Wednesday, January 11, 2012, Neds, Director: Peter Mullan, 2010, Origin: UK | France | Italy, Language: English | Scots, Running time: 124 min
- Wednesday, January 18, 2012, Aberdeen, Director: Hans Petter Moland, 2001, Origin: UK | Norway | Sweden, Language: English, Running time: 106 min
- Wednesday, January 25, 2012, Alamar, Director: Pedro González-Rubio, 2009, Origin: Mexico, Language: Spanish | Italian, Running time: 73 min
- Wednesday, February 1, 2012, Army of Crime, Director: Robert Guediguian, 2009, Origin: France, Language: French | German, Running time: 139 min
- Wednesday, February 8, 2012, Incendies, Director: Denis Villeneuve, 2010, Origin: Canada | France, Language: French | Arabic | English, Running time: 130 min
- Wednesday, February 15, 2012, Police, Adjective, Director: Corneliu Porumboiu, 2009, Origin: Romania, Language: Romanian, Running time: 115 min
- Wednesday, February 22, 2012, The Celebration, Director: Thomas Vinterberg, 1998, Origin: Denmark | Sweden, Language: Danish | German | English, Running time: 105 min
- Wednesday, February 29, 2012, The Tree of Life, Director: Terrence Malick, 2011, Origin: USA, Language: English, Running time: 139 min
- Wednesday, March 7, 2012, Grbavica: The land of my dreams, Director: Jasmila Zbanic, 2006, Origin: Bosnia and Herzegovina | Croatia | Austria | Germany, Language: Bosnian, Running time: 107 min
- Wednesday, March 14, 2012, Lake Tahoe, Director: Fernando Eimbcke, 2008, Origin: Mexico | Japan | USA, Language: Spanish | English, Running time: 89 min
- Wednesday, March 21, 2012, When We Leave, Director: Feo Aladag, 2010, Origin: German, Language: German | Turkish, Running time: 119 min
- Wednesday, March 28, 2012, Inch' Allah Dimanche, Director: Yamina Benguigui, 2001, Origin: France | Algeria, Language: Arabic | French, Running time: 98 min
- Wednesday, April 4, 2012, Roads to Koktebel, Director: Boris Khlebnikov and Aleksei Popogrebsky, 2003, Origin: Russia, Language: Russian, Running time: 100 min
- Wednesday, April 11, 2012, The Keys to the House, Director: Gianni Amelio, 2004, Origin: Italy | Germany | France, Language: Italian | German | French | English, Running time: 105 min
- Wednesday, April 18, 2012, The Trip, Director: Michael Winterbottom, 2010, Origin: UK, Language: English, Running time: 107 min
- Wednesday, April 25, 2012, The City of Your Final Destination, Director: James Ivory, 2009, Origin: USA, Language: English | Spanish | French, Running time: 117 min
- Wednesday, May 2, 2012, A Somewhat Gentle Man, Director: Hans Petter Moland, 2010, Origin: Norway, Language: Norwegian, Running time: 105 min
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
January 18, 2011 - "Aberdeen" (2001)
Aberdeen, 2001
Director: Hans Petter Moland
Origin: UK | Norway | Sweden
Language: English
Running time: 106 min.
Kaisa (Lena Headey), a beautiful and feisty Scottish woman, finally has her life together - at least until her mother (Charlotte Rampling) asks an enormous favor: to bring back to her Kaisa's estranged, larger-than-life father (Stellan Skarsgard). The two of them, father and daughter together, set out on a wild, brutally funny yet heartbreaking journey, which takes them through their emotional past before reaching their ultimate destination. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Not rated
U.S. box office: $64,148
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
Director: Hans Petter Moland
Origin: UK | Norway | Sweden
Language: English
Running time: 106 min.
Kaisa (Lena Headey), a beautiful and feisty Scottish woman, finally has her life together - at least until her mother (Charlotte Rampling) asks an enormous favor: to bring back to her Kaisa's estranged, larger-than-life father (Stellan Skarsgard). The two of them, father and daughter together, set out on a wild, brutally funny yet heartbreaking journey, which takes them through their emotional past before reaching their ultimate destination. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Not rated
U.S. box office: $64,148
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
Thursday, January 5, 2012
Winter 2012 season -- the beginning
We have been slow to start the process of selecting the winter 2012 season. So far, we have chosen the first four films, beginning with January 11. By the time we screen the first film, the entire season should be in place.
Here is what we have lined up so far:
For January 11, 2012:
Neds, 2010
Director: Peter Mullan
Origin: UK | France | Italy
Languages: English | Scots
Running time: 124 minutes
This intense social drama follows young Joe McGill (Gregg Forrest) in 1972 Glasgow as he enters middle school and is ostracized for his intellect and brother Benny's (Joe Szula) fierce reputation. Joe (Conor McCarron) follows in Benny's footsteps to become a NED: a non-educated delinquent. Tormented by school bullies and his alcoholic father (director Peter Mullan), Joe is forced to transform into a vicious thug in order to survive. (from Netflix.com)
Watch trailer at IMDB.
Here is what we have lined up so far:
For January 11, 2012:
Neds, 2010
Director: Peter Mullan
Origin: UK | France | Italy
Languages: English | Scots
Running time: 124 minutes
This intense social drama follows young Joe McGill (Gregg Forrest) in 1972 Glasgow as he enters middle school and is ostracized for his intellect and brother Benny's (Joe Szula) fierce reputation. Joe (Conor McCarron) follows in Benny's footsteps to become a NED: a non-educated delinquent. Tormented by school bullies and his alcoholic father (director Peter Mullan), Joe is forced to transform into a vicious thug in order to survive. (from Netflix.com)
Watch trailer at IMDB.
- For January 18, 2012: Aberdeen, 2000
- For January 25, 2012: Alamar, 2009
- For February 1, 2012: The Army of Crime, 2009
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