Thanks for another great season -- Fall 2013. It was a wide variety of fun and not-so-fun; foreign and independent. The constant was you! We'll start planning the Winter 2013 season next week and let you know as soon as it is set.
Until then, let us know what films you especially liked, and which films you think we should consider for future seasons.
Happy holidays!
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Review of last week's film ("Boy", 3.5 stars)
Steven says: It's always fun to look back at the 1980s, and this film doesn't make much fun of it. Instead, it shows how American pop culture permeated even the far recesses of New Zealand in 1984. The imaginations of two young brothers help keep their lives moving forward even as their father returns after a long absence. It takes the oldest child's adult reaction to his father's messed up life for the father to start to mature himself.
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
Wednesday, December 4, 2013
December 11, 2013 - "Boy" (2010)
Boy, 2010
This is the final film of the Fall 2013 season. The Winter 2014 season will begin in January.
Director: Taika Waititi
Origin: New Zeland
Languages: English | Maori
Running time: 87 min
Filmed in his native New Zealand, this comedy from writer-director Taika Waititi follows 11-year-old Boy and his younger brother, Rocky, whose rich fantasy lives are stopped cold when their father returns home after years away. Although Boy has imagined that his father is a dashing, accomplished hero who is related to Michael Jackson, in reality he is a failed gangster seeking to restore his family's faith in him. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $255,179
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
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Review of last week's film ("Lore", 5 stars)
Steven says: This is a powerful film - from its chaotic nature to its saturated colors to its natural/unnatural dichotomies. If you look past the unanswered questions (and there are quite a few), you find a story of lost innocence, maturation, and discovered truths. Some of the imagery, because of the subject matter, is gruesome, which only makes the survival of the characters more engrossing.
This is the final film of the Fall 2013 season. The Winter 2014 season will begin in January.
Director: Taika Waititi
Origin: New Zeland
Languages: English | Maori
Running time: 87 min
Filmed in his native New Zealand, this comedy from writer-director Taika Waititi follows 11-year-old Boy and his younger brother, Rocky, whose rich fantasy lives are stopped cold when their father returns home after years away. Although Boy has imagined that his father is a dashing, accomplished hero who is related to Michael Jackson, in reality he is a failed gangster seeking to restore his family's faith in him. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $255,179
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
---
Review of last week's film ("Lore", 5 stars)
Steven says: This is a powerful film - from its chaotic nature to its saturated colors to its natural/unnatural dichotomies. If you look past the unanswered questions (and there are quite a few), you find a story of lost innocence, maturation, and discovered truths. Some of the imagery, because of the subject matter, is gruesome, which only makes the survival of the characters more engrossing.
Wednesday, November 20, 2013
December 4, 2013 - "Lore" (2012)
Reminder: No screening on Nov. 27 -- Happy Thanksgiving!
Lore, 2012
Director: Cate Shortland
Origin: Germany
Languages: German | English
Running time: 109 min
After her Nazi parents are imprisoned, Lore leads her younger siblings across a war-torn Germany in 1945. Amid the chaos, she encounters a mysterious refugee named Thomas, who shatters her fragile reality with hatred and desire. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $968,879
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
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Review of last week's film ("Mud", 3 stars)
Steven says: You can't miss the theme of this movie. Love. It's the reason for everything that happens, messy and not so messy. It also provides several perspectives on relationships (of all kinds) where the main character can pick and choose the lessons he'll to take into adulthood. The ultimate lesson? Life and love are messy, but you can't let that stop you from living.
Lore, 2012
Director: Cate Shortland
Origin: Germany
Languages: German | English
Running time: 109 min
After her Nazi parents are imprisoned, Lore leads her younger siblings across a war-torn Germany in 1945. Amid the chaos, she encounters a mysterious refugee named Thomas, who shatters her fragile reality with hatred and desire. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $968,879
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
---
Review of last week's film ("Mud", 3 stars)
Steven says: You can't miss the theme of this movie. Love. It's the reason for everything that happens, messy and not so messy. It also provides several perspectives on relationships (of all kinds) where the main character can pick and choose the lessons he'll to take into adulthood. The ultimate lesson? Life and love are messy, but you can't let that stop you from living.
Wednesday, November 13, 2013
November 20, 2013 - "Mud" (2012)
Mud, 2012
Director: Jeff Nichols
Origin: US
Language: English
Running time: 130 min
Two Mississippi teens, Ellis and Neckbone, meet a mysterious drifter named Mud hiding on a deserted river island and get caught up in his tangled web of tall tales about bounty hunters, crimes of passion, lost love and a perfect woman named Juniper. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated PG-13 for some violence, sexual references, language, thematic elements and smoking
U.S.box office: $21,538,192
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
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Review of last week's film (The Edge, 3.5 stars)
Steven says: There might be an allegory in here that resonated with Russian audiences without fully translating to international film-goers. There's a perception of control from the absent Fishman, and there's the chaos of main the character, who has some sort of brain trauma. As new people inhabit this makeshift settlement, they upset the uneasy calm and help expose how awful humanity can be. In addition, trains and their engineers try to outdo each other for power, prowess and some semblance of pride.
Director: Jeff Nichols
Origin: US
Language: English
Running time: 130 min
Two Mississippi teens, Ellis and Neckbone, meet a mysterious drifter named Mud hiding on a deserted river island and get caught up in his tangled web of tall tales about bounty hunters, crimes of passion, lost love and a perfect woman named Juniper. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated PG-13 for some violence, sexual references, language, thematic elements and smoking
U.S.box office: $21,538,192
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
---
Review of last week's film (The Edge, 3.5 stars)
Steven says: There might be an allegory in here that resonated with Russian audiences without fully translating to international film-goers. There's a perception of control from the absent Fishman, and there's the chaos of main the character, who has some sort of brain trauma. As new people inhabit this makeshift settlement, they upset the uneasy calm and help expose how awful humanity can be. In addition, trains and their engineers try to outdo each other for power, prowess and some semblance of pride.
Saturday, November 9, 2013
November 13, 2013 - "The Edge" (2010)
Because of availability of some titles, we shuffled the movies for the remainder of the season.
The Fall 2013 season blog post has been updated.
The Edge, 2010
Director: Aleksei Uchitel
Origin: Russian | German
Languages: Russian | German
Running time: 124 min
Tensions escalate in a post-World War II Siberian labor camp when a mysterious newcomer named Ignat arrives with a hidden agenda. Ignat's mysterious presence threatens to topple the patchwork society's existing power structure. (from Netflix.com)
Watch the trailer online.
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Review of last week's film (Reality, 3 stars)
Steven says: Billed as a comedy, it is really anything but. The main character's obsession with making it on Reality TV starts a downward spiral that destroys his mostly stable life. He gives up his own reality in an attempt to achieve broader recognition and fame, but he loses both realities in the process.
The Fall 2013 season blog post has been updated.
The Edge, 2010
Director: Aleksei Uchitel
Origin: Russian | German
Languages: Russian | German
Running time: 124 min
Tensions escalate in a post-World War II Siberian labor camp when a mysterious newcomer named Ignat arrives with a hidden agenda. Ignat's mysterious presence threatens to topple the patchwork society's existing power structure. (from Netflix.com)
Watch the trailer online.
---
Review of last week's film (Reality, 3 stars)
Steven says: Billed as a comedy, it is really anything but. The main character's obsession with making it on Reality TV starts a downward spiral that destroys his mostly stable life. He gives up his own reality in an attempt to achieve broader recognition and fame, but he loses both realities in the process.
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
November 6, 2013 - "Reality" (2012)
Reality, 2012
Director: Matteo Garrone
Origin: Italy
Languages: Italian | Neapolitan | English | Latin
Running time: 116 min
Jovial fishmonger and small-time con artist Luciano hopes to enrich his humble family by participating in the Italian version of "Big Brother," but his obsession with appearing to be an ideal contestant soon has his family doubting his sanity. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $55,261
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
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Review of last week's film (Pieta, 3 stars)
Steven says: Steel yourself for intense visuals and visceral reactions throughout this film, described by the director as "delving into the discord of human relations within an extreme capitalist system." It is heavy on the discord with only one character who has redeeming qualities, which speaks volumes about the director's vision of money and greed. It is definitely not for everyone, and it's hard to determine who will find the film worthwhile.
Director: Matteo Garrone
Origin: Italy
Languages: Italian | Neapolitan | English | Latin
Running time: 116 min
Jovial fishmonger and small-time con artist Luciano hopes to enrich his humble family by participating in the Italian version of "Big Brother," but his obsession with appearing to be an ideal contestant soon has his family doubting his sanity. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $55,261
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
--
Review of last week's film (Pieta, 3 stars)
Steven says: Steel yourself for intense visuals and visceral reactions throughout this film, described by the director as "delving into the discord of human relations within an extreme capitalist system." It is heavy on the discord with only one character who has redeeming qualities, which speaks volumes about the director's vision of money and greed. It is definitely not for everyone, and it's hard to determine who will find the film worthwhile.
Wednesday, October 23, 2013
October 30, 2013 - "Pieta" (2012)
Pieta, 2012
Director: Kim Ki-Duk
Origin: South Korea
Languages: Italian | French | English
Running time: 105 min
Kang-do, an enforcer for a loan shark in a destitute area of Seoul, is unrelentingly brutal in his collection of debts. But when a mysterious woman appears and claims that she is his mother, Kang-do finds himself developing a hunger for human warmth. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $10,060
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
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Review of last weeks' film (A Late Quartet, 4.5 stars)
Steven says: The string quartet -- what will it take to break it up OR keep it together? There are great philosophical musical discussions throughout, Philip Seymour Hoffman is terrific, and the music makes you want to explore it more. Dreams and passions are tweaked and refined as these four musicians continue to search for the harmonies that keep the quartet working and their personal lives intact.
Director: Kim Ki-Duk
Origin: South Korea
Languages: Italian | French | English
Running time: 105 min
Kang-do, an enforcer for a loan shark in a destitute area of Seoul, is unrelentingly brutal in his collection of debts. But when a mysterious woman appears and claims that she is his mother, Kang-do finds himself developing a hunger for human warmth. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $10,060
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
---
Review of last weeks' film (A Late Quartet, 4.5 stars)
Steven says: The string quartet -- what will it take to break it up OR keep it together? There are great philosophical musical discussions throughout, Philip Seymour Hoffman is terrific, and the music makes you want to explore it more. Dreams and passions are tweaked and refined as these four musicians continue to search for the harmonies that keep the quartet working and their personal lives intact.
Wednesday, October 16, 2013
October 23, 2013 - "A Late Quartet" (2012)
A Late Quartet, 2012
Director: Yaron Zilberman
Origin: USA
Language: English
Running time: 105 min
Tempers flare, old jealousies reignite and new passions are sparked when the members of a world-renowned string quartet are preparing to celebrate their 25th anniversary and learn that their leader must step down due to a grim medical diagnosis. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated R for language and some sexuality
U.S. box office: $1,561,577
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
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Review of last week's film ("A Royal Affair", 4 stars)
Steven says: Even though this film revolves around the Danish monarchy in the 18th century, it really contains political intrigue that fits any era and any country. Those who want power find it easy to bend King Christian VII their way because of his inability to rule on his own. The king's role is perhaps the most developed even though the lead roles belong to Mads Mikkelsen and Alicia Vikander.
Director: Yaron Zilberman
Origin: USA
Language: English
Running time: 105 min
Tempers flare, old jealousies reignite and new passions are sparked when the members of a world-renowned string quartet are preparing to celebrate their 25th anniversary and learn that their leader must step down due to a grim medical diagnosis. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated R for language and some sexuality
U.S. box office: $1,561,577
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
---
Review of last week's film ("A Royal Affair", 4 stars)
Steven says: Even though this film revolves around the Danish monarchy in the 18th century, it really contains political intrigue that fits any era and any country. Those who want power find it easy to bend King Christian VII their way because of his inability to rule on his own. The king's role is perhaps the most developed even though the lead roles belong to Mads Mikkelsen and Alicia Vikander.
Wednesday, October 9, 2013
October 16, 2013 - "A Royal Affair" (2012)
A Royal Affair, 2012
Director: Nikolaj Arcel
Origin: Denmark | Sweden | Czech Republic
Language: Danish | English | German | French
Running time: 137 min
In 18th-century Denmark, the unstable King Christian IV neglects his young queen, Mathilde, who falls in love with his German physician, Struensee, an intellectual whose advocation of reform transforms the country but brings about his own downfall. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated R for sexual content and some violent images
U.S. box office: $1,545,726
Watch the trailer at IMDB.
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Review of last week's film (Safety Not Guaranteed, 3.5 stars)
Steven says: What would you change in your past if you had the chance to time travel? This movie provides three perspectives of characters wanting to relive or change the past. Regrets are inevitable -- that you did something you shouldn't have, or that you should have done something you didn't. Sometimes quirky, sometimes insightful, this film uses the time travel plot device to help advance the story, not as the center of the story, and it works.
Director: Nikolaj Arcel
Origin: Denmark | Sweden | Czech Republic
Language: Danish | English | German | French
Running time: 137 min
In 18th-century Denmark, the unstable King Christian IV neglects his young queen, Mathilde, who falls in love with his German physician, Struensee, an intellectual whose advocation of reform transforms the country but brings about his own downfall. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated R for sexual content and some violent images
U.S. box office: $1,545,726
Watch the trailer at IMDB.
--
Review of last week's film (Safety Not Guaranteed, 3.5 stars)
Steven says: What would you change in your past if you had the chance to time travel? This movie provides three perspectives of characters wanting to relive or change the past. Regrets are inevitable -- that you did something you shouldn't have, or that you should have done something you didn't. Sometimes quirky, sometimes insightful, this film uses the time travel plot device to help advance the story, not as the center of the story, and it works.
Wednesday, October 2, 2013
October 9, 2013 - "Safety Not Guaranteed" (2012)
Safety Not Guaranteed, 2012
Director: Colin Trevorrow
Origin: US
Language: English
Running time: 86 min
A team of journalists are dispatched to find out who's behind a classified advertisement seeking a companion for time travel, with payment on return. After tracking down their oddball prey, the team has to decide how best to approach their subject. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated R for language including some sexual references
U.S. box office: $4,007,792
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
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Review of last week's film (Amour, 5 stars)
Steven says: Each audience member will react to this film differently, depending on their own experiences with age-related illnesses. It is extremely realistic, personal, intimate, and moving. The director/writer is masterful in his storytelling, and the lead actors seem to feel every emotion deeply. The best and most powerful stories are those that can be applied and understood by the masses. With that understanding, this story is one for all to see and learn from.
Director: Colin Trevorrow
Origin: US
Language: English
Running time: 86 min
A team of journalists are dispatched to find out who's behind a classified advertisement seeking a companion for time travel, with payment on return. After tracking down their oddball prey, the team has to decide how best to approach their subject. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated R for language including some sexual references
U.S. box office: $4,007,792
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
---
Review of last week's film (Amour, 5 stars)
Steven says: Each audience member will react to this film differently, depending on their own experiences with age-related illnesses. It is extremely realistic, personal, intimate, and moving. The director/writer is masterful in his storytelling, and the lead actors seem to feel every emotion deeply. The best and most powerful stories are those that can be applied and understood by the masses. With that understanding, this story is one for all to see and learn from.
Wednesday, September 25, 2013
October 2, 2013 - "Amour" (2012)
Amour, 2012
Director: Michael Haneke
Origin: Austria
Languages: French | English
Running time: 127 min
In this 2012 Cannes Film Festival Palme d'Or winner, Georges and Anne, retired music teachers in their eighties, have a time-tested love. But as Anne's health fails, Georges becomes her caregiver, and the couple's bond is tested like never before. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated PG-13 for mature thematic material including a disturbing act, and for brief language
U.S. box office: $6,738,954
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
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Review of last week's movie (The Big Picture, 4 stars )
Steven says: When I found out the official French title of this film ("The Man Who Wanted to Live His Life") everything clicked (no photography pun intended) for me. "The Big Picture" is a horrible English title for this film. Venting aside, Romain Duris does a great job of embodying his character, who is caught between old and new realities. Is the life you want really the life you expect? How much control do you have over your life, or is it simply a succession of choices and their consequences?
Director: Michael Haneke
Origin: Austria
Languages: French | English
Running time: 127 min
In this 2012 Cannes Film Festival Palme d'Or winner, Georges and Anne, retired music teachers in their eighties, have a time-tested love. But as Anne's health fails, Georges becomes her caregiver, and the couple's bond is tested like never before. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated PG-13 for mature thematic material including a disturbing act, and for brief language
U.S. box office: $6,738,954
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
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Review of last week's movie (The Big Picture, 4 stars )
Steven says: When I found out the official French title of this film ("The Man Who Wanted to Live His Life") everything clicked (no photography pun intended) for me. "The Big Picture" is a horrible English title for this film. Venting aside, Romain Duris does a great job of embodying his character, who is caught between old and new realities. Is the life you want really the life you expect? How much control do you have over your life, or is it simply a succession of choices and their consequences?
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
September 25, 2013 - "The Big Picture" (2010)
The Big Picture, 2010
Director: Eric Lartigau
Origin: France
Languages: French | Serbian | English
Running time: 114 min
Successful Paris attorney Paul Exben (Romain Duris) has everything going for him, including power, wealth and a picture-perfect family. But the mirror suddenly cracks when Paul discovers that his wife, Sarah, is carrying on an affair with a photographer. After a tragic error closes the door on all that he's achieved, Paul makes a fateful decision to escape, fleeing abroad to try and begin a new life as someone else altogether. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $158,411
Watch the trailer at IMDB.
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Review of last week's film (No, 4 stars)
Steven says: The Chilean people removed Augusto Pinochet from office in 1988 in a first-of-its-kind election; they just needed the push to get to the polls first. This movie goes behind the scenes, detailing the advertising campaign that helped bring about the change, to vote "No." It's a good history lesson and a good reminder of the power of mass media, no matter whose message is being disseminated.
Director: Eric Lartigau
Origin: France
Languages: French | Serbian | English
Running time: 114 min
Successful Paris attorney Paul Exben (Romain Duris) has everything going for him, including power, wealth and a picture-perfect family. But the mirror suddenly cracks when Paul discovers that his wife, Sarah, is carrying on an affair with a photographer. After a tragic error closes the door on all that he's achieved, Paul makes a fateful decision to escape, fleeing abroad to try and begin a new life as someone else altogether. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $158,411
Watch the trailer at IMDB.
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Review of last week's film (No, 4 stars)
Steven says: The Chilean people removed Augusto Pinochet from office in 1988 in a first-of-its-kind election; they just needed the push to get to the polls first. This movie goes behind the scenes, detailing the advertising campaign that helped bring about the change, to vote "No." It's a good history lesson and a good reminder of the power of mass media, no matter whose message is being disseminated.
Wednesday, September 11, 2013
September 18, 2013 - "No" (2012)
No, 2012
This is the last of three movies we will screen starring Mexican actor Gael Garcia Bernal.
Director: Pablo Larrain
Origin: Chile
Language: Spanish
Running time: 118 min
In this engaging drama from Chile, Gael GarcÃa Bernal portrays René Saavedra, a hot-shot ad executive who creates a controversial media campaign opposing military dictator Augusto Pinochet during the referendum on his presidency in 1988. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated R for language
U.S. box office: $2,341,226
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
Read Bernal's entry on Wikipedia.
Read a story about Bernal from 2009 in the Telegraph.
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Review of last week's film ("The Loneliest Planet", 3 stars)
Steven says: This film pits the fans of long, meticulous takes against those who prefer more dialogue and plot in their movies. The scenery is gorgeous, the scenes are artistic, and the tension is palpable. In the end, it's a film that dissects a relationship before and after a traumatic experience, asking the audience to be close-up spectators of the experience.
This is the last of three movies we will screen starring Mexican actor Gael Garcia Bernal.
Director: Pablo Larrain
Origin: Chile
Language: Spanish
Running time: 118 min
In this engaging drama from Chile, Gael GarcÃa Bernal portrays René Saavedra, a hot-shot ad executive who creates a controversial media campaign opposing military dictator Augusto Pinochet during the referendum on his presidency in 1988. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated R for language
U.S. box office: $2,341,226
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
Read Bernal's entry on Wikipedia.
Read a story about Bernal from 2009 in the Telegraph.
---
Review of last week's film ("The Loneliest Planet", 3 stars)
Steven says: This film pits the fans of long, meticulous takes against those who prefer more dialogue and plot in their movies. The scenery is gorgeous, the scenes are artistic, and the tension is palpable. In the end, it's a film that dissects a relationship before and after a traumatic experience, asking the audience to be close-up spectators of the experience.
Wednesday, September 4, 2013
September 11, 2013 - "The Loneliest Planet" (2011)
The Loneliest Planet, 2011
This is the second of three movies we will screen starring Mexican actor Gael Garcia Bernal.
Director: Julia Loktev
Origin: USA | Germany
Languages: English | Georgian | Spanish
Running time: 113 min
Alex and Nica, a young engaged couple, are so eager to take a serious walking trek through Georgia's Caucasus Mountains that they hire a local guide. As they travel deep into the wild landscape, however, the emotional atmosphere shifts for the trio. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $128,519
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
Read Bernal's entry on Wikipedia.
Read a story about Bernal from 2009 in the Telegraph.
---
Review of last week's film ("Mammoth", 4 stars)
Steven says: With themes of "the wrong time" and family priorities, "Mammoth" follows two families and their struggles to create normalcy, better lives for their children, and connections that mean something. While they see points of clarity, we are unsure if it is enough to help them become better parents or better providers. The struggle to survive means something different to each person, and this film shows nicely the continuum of struggles found around the world.
This is the second of three movies we will screen starring Mexican actor Gael Garcia Bernal.
Director: Julia Loktev
Origin: USA | Germany
Languages: English | Georgian | Spanish
Running time: 113 min
Alex and Nica, a young engaged couple, are so eager to take a serious walking trek through Georgia's Caucasus Mountains that they hire a local guide. As they travel deep into the wild landscape, however, the emotional atmosphere shifts for the trio. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $128,519
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
Read Bernal's entry on Wikipedia.
Read a story about Bernal from 2009 in the Telegraph.
---
Review of last week's film ("Mammoth", 4 stars)
Steven says: With themes of "the wrong time" and family priorities, "Mammoth" follows two families and their struggles to create normalcy, better lives for their children, and connections that mean something. While they see points of clarity, we are unsure if it is enough to help them become better parents or better providers. The struggle to survive means something different to each person, and this film shows nicely the continuum of struggles found around the world.
Wednesday, August 28, 2013
September 4, 2013 - "Mammoth" (2009) featuring Bernal
Mammoth, 2009
This is the first of three movies we will screen starring Mexican actor Gael Garcia Bernal.
Director: Lukas Moodysson
Origin: Sweden | Denmark | Germany
Languages: English | Tagalog | Thai
Running time: 125 min
Lukas Moodysson writes and directs this drama centered on three intersecting stories, one of a traveling New Yorker named Leo (Gael GarcÃa Bernal), another of his surgeon wife, Ellen (Michelle Williams), and also the children of their Filipino nanny, Gloria (Marife Necesito), in the Philippines. A series of dramatic events unfolds after Leo visits Thailand, causing everyone to reexamine their priorities. Sophie Nyweide co-stars (from Netflix.com).
U.S. box office: $8,530
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
Read Bernal's entry on Wikipedia.
Read a story about Bernal from 2009 in the Telegraph.
---
Review of last week's film (Barfi!, 3 stars)
Steven says: Barfi! combines the physical comedy of silent era films with modern story telling, with varying degrees of success. Endearing at times, it comes close to running off the tracks (using the train theme from the movie) in places. It would be a fun game to have audience members identify movies from the last 100 years that inspired different scenes of the film.
This is the first of three movies we will screen starring Mexican actor Gael Garcia Bernal.
Director: Lukas Moodysson
Origin: Sweden | Denmark | Germany
Languages: English | Tagalog | Thai
Running time: 125 min
Lukas Moodysson writes and directs this drama centered on three intersecting stories, one of a traveling New Yorker named Leo (Gael GarcÃa Bernal), another of his surgeon wife, Ellen (Michelle Williams), and also the children of their Filipino nanny, Gloria (Marife Necesito), in the Philippines. A series of dramatic events unfolds after Leo visits Thailand, causing everyone to reexamine their priorities. Sophie Nyweide co-stars (from Netflix.com).
U.S. box office: $8,530
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
Read Bernal's entry on Wikipedia.
Read a story about Bernal from 2009 in the Telegraph.
---
Review of last week's film (Barfi!, 3 stars)
Steven says: Barfi! combines the physical comedy of silent era films with modern story telling, with varying degrees of success. Endearing at times, it comes close to running off the tracks (using the train theme from the movie) in places. It would be a fun game to have audience members identify movies from the last 100 years that inspired different scenes of the film.
Wednesday, August 21, 2013
August 28, 2013 - "Barfi!" (2012)
Barfi!, 2012
Director: Anurag Basu
Origin: India
Language: Hindi
Running time: 151 min (yes, 2.5 hours)
Years after rejecting Barfii, a hearing and speech impaired young man, for a more "appropriate" suitor, Shruti crosses paths with him once again. Now, the tables are turned as he has a girlfriend -- and Shruti finds herself falling for him. (from Netflix.com)
Watch the trailer on YouTube.
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Review of last week's film ("The Other Son", 3.5 stars)
Steven says: First, we all agree that the French title "Son of the Other" is more true to the film, and what a layered film it is. Finding out you are not your parents' child is one thing; adding in cultural and religious conflicts only amplifies the internal struggles that each unwilling participant must face. The rabbi's message ("God loves man like a father loves his son") is only half of the theme, for the love of the mothers is what brings about the most understanding.
Director: Anurag Basu
Origin: India
Language: Hindi
Running time: 151 min (yes, 2.5 hours)
Years after rejecting Barfii, a hearing and speech impaired young man, for a more "appropriate" suitor, Shruti crosses paths with him once again. Now, the tables are turned as he has a girlfriend -- and Shruti finds herself falling for him. (from Netflix.com)
Watch the trailer on YouTube.
---
Review of last week's film ("The Other Son", 3.5 stars)
Steven says: First, we all agree that the French title "Son of the Other" is more true to the film, and what a layered film it is. Finding out you are not your parents' child is one thing; adding in cultural and religious conflicts only amplifies the internal struggles that each unwilling participant must face. The rabbi's message ("God loves man like a father loves his son") is only half of the theme, for the love of the mothers is what brings about the most understanding.
Sunday, August 18, 2013
Announcing the Fall 2013 Season
The Fall 2013 Season is August 21 – December 11, 2013.
All screenings for this season begin at 7:00 p.m. in Forney Hall, Room B124, 480 Stadium Mall Drive, on the Purdue University campus.
Parking is available in the Northwestern Avenue parking garage.
All screenings for this season begin at 7:00 p.m. in Forney Hall, Room B124, 480 Stadium Mall Drive, on the Purdue University campus.
Parking is available in the Northwestern Avenue parking garage.
- Wednesday, August 21, 2013, The Other Son, 2012; Director: Lorraine Levy; Origin: France; Language(s): French | English | Arabic | Hebrew; Running time: 105 min
- Wednesday, August 28, 2013, Barfi!, 2012; Director: Anurag Basu; Origin: India; Language(s): Hindi; Running time: 151 min
- Wednesday, September 4, 2013, Mammoth, 2009; Director: Lukas Moodysson; Origin: Sweden | Denmark | Germany; Language(s): English | Tagalog | Thai; Running time: 125 min
- Wednesday, September 11, 2013, The Loneliest Planet, 2011; Director: Julia Loktev; Origin: USA | Germany; Language(s): English | Georgian | Spanish; Running time: 113 min
- Wednesday, September 18, 2013, No, 2012; Director: Pablo Larrain; Origin: Chile; Language(s): Spanish; Running time: 118 min
- Wednesday, September 25, 2013, The Big Picture, 2010; Director: Eric Lartigau; Origin: France; Language(s): French | Serbian | English; Running time: 114 min
- Wednesday, October 2, 2013, Amour, 2012; Director: Michael Haneke; Origin: Austria; Language(s): French | English; Running time: 127 min
- Wednesday, October 9, 2013, Safety Not Guaranteed, 2012; Director: Colin Trevorrow; Origin: US; Language(s): English; Running time: 86 min
- Wednesday, October 16, 2013, A Royal Affair, 2012; Director: Nikolaj Arcel; Origin: Denmark | Sweden | Czech Republic; Language(s): Danish | English | German | French; Running time: 137 min
- Wednesday, October 23, 2013, A Late Quartet, 2012; Director: Yaron Zilberman; Origin: USA; Language(s): English; Running time: 105 min
- Wednesday, October 30, 2013, Pieta, 2012; Director: Kim Ki-Duk; Origin: South Korea; Language(s): Italian | French | English; Running time: 105 min
- Wednesday, November 6, 2013, Reality, 2012; Director: Matteo Garrone; Origin: Italy; Language(s): Italian | Neapolitan | English | Latin; Running time: 116 min
- Wednesday, November 13, 2013, The Edge, 2010; Director: Aleksei Uchitel; Origin: Language(s): Russian | German; Russian | German; Running time: 124 min
- Wednesday, November 20, 2013, Mud, 2012; Director: Jeff Nichols; Origin: US; Language(s): English; Running time: 130 min
- Wednesday, November 27, 2013, NO SCREENING
- Wednesday, December 4, 2013, Lore, 2012; Director: Cate Shortland; Origin: Germany; Language(s): German | English; Running time: 109 min
- Wednesday, December 11, 2013, Boy, 2010; Director: Taika Waititi; Origin: New Zeland; Language(s): English | Maori; Running time: 87 min
Thursday, August 15, 2013
August 21, 2013 - "The Other Son" (2012)
The first film of the Fall 2013 season, which will be announced early next week . . .
The Other Son, 2012
Director: Lorraine Levy
Origin: France
Languages: French | English | Arabic | Hebrew
Running time: 105 min
While preparing to enter the Israeli military for his compulsory service, young Joseph Silberg learns he was accidentally switched at birth with the son of an Arab couple from the West Bank -- a shocking revelation that sends both families reeling. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $1,160,773
Watch the trailer at IMDB.
---
Review of the previous film (Starlet, 4 stars)
Steven says: This is a film about isolation - how we get there, how we remain there, how hard it is to reverse. In the midst of this are two women, a widow and a porn star (which it takes a while to realize) who find an unlikely friendship. It's sweet and frustrating, and even a little eye-opening.
The Other Son, 2012
Director: Lorraine Levy
Origin: France
Languages: French | English | Arabic | Hebrew
Running time: 105 min
While preparing to enter the Israeli military for his compulsory service, young Joseph Silberg learns he was accidentally switched at birth with the son of an Arab couple from the West Bank -- a shocking revelation that sends both families reeling. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $1,160,773
Watch the trailer at IMDB.
---
Review of the previous film (Starlet, 4 stars)
Steven says: This is a film about isolation - how we get there, how we remain there, how hard it is to reverse. In the midst of this are two women, a widow and a porn star (which it takes a while to realize) who find an unlikely friendship. It's sweet and frustrating, and even a little eye-opening.
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
August 7, 2013 - "Starlet" (2012)
Final film of the summer 2013 season . . .
Starlet, 2012
Director: Sean Barker
Origin: USA
Language: English
Running time: 103 minutes
Jane, a 21-year-old slacker, finds $10,000 stashed in a thermos she buys at a garage sale. Unsure what to do with the money, she begins spending time with Sadie, the elderly widow who held the garage sale, and an unlikely friendship develops. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $87,910
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
---
Review of last week's film ("I Wish", 3.5 stars)
Steven says: A great look at life and its problems from the perspective of pre-teens. Groups of friends try to balance their current lives with their wants and desires -- from dreams of stardom to bringing a broken family back together. In the process, they begin to see how the adult world operates and how they can maneuver within that framework.
Starlet, 2012
Director: Sean Barker
Origin: USA
Language: English
Running time: 103 minutes
Jane, a 21-year-old slacker, finds $10,000 stashed in a thermos she buys at a garage sale. Unsure what to do with the money, she begins spending time with Sadie, the elderly widow who held the garage sale, and an unlikely friendship develops. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $87,910
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
---
Review of last week's film ("I Wish", 3.5 stars)
Steven says: A great look at life and its problems from the perspective of pre-teens. Groups of friends try to balance their current lives with their wants and desires -- from dreams of stardom to bringing a broken family back together. In the process, they begin to see how the adult world operates and how they can maneuver within that framework.
Thursday, July 25, 2013
July 31, 2013 - "I Wish" (2011)
I Wish, 2011
Director: Hirokazu Koreeda
Origin: Japan
Language: Japanese
Running time: 128 minutes
When he learns that a bullet train will soon connect the city where his mother lives to the city where his estranged father resides, young lad Koichi and his kid brother hatch a wildly imaginative plan to use the new train to reconnect their parents. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $145,697
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
---
Review of last week's film ("Found Memories", 5 stars)
Steven says: Stunning cinematography in a simply lovely film. Each scene is meticulously framed and staged for maximum beauty. And without feeling mystical, the film makes you wonder if the characters are real or simply forgotten memories. After you have time to think about the possibilities, I think a second viewing is in order, to relive the simple beauty and ponder alternate realities.
Director: Hirokazu Koreeda
Origin: Japan
Language: Japanese
Running time: 128 minutes
When he learns that a bullet train will soon connect the city where his mother lives to the city where his estranged father resides, young lad Koichi and his kid brother hatch a wildly imaginative plan to use the new train to reconnect their parents. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $145,697
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
---
Review of last week's film ("Found Memories", 5 stars)
Steven says: Stunning cinematography in a simply lovely film. Each scene is meticulously framed and staged for maximum beauty. And without feeling mystical, the film makes you wonder if the characters are real or simply forgotten memories. After you have time to think about the possibilities, I think a second viewing is in order, to relive the simple beauty and ponder alternate realities.
Wednesday, July 17, 2013
July 24, 2013 - "Found Memories" (2011)
Found Memories, 2011
Director: Júlia Murat
Origin: Brazil | Argentina | France
Language: Portuguese
Running time: 98 minutes
Life in a quiet village rolls slowly from one day to the next with little excitement -- until a young photographer named Rita arrives. Intent on capturing the town on film, Rita forms a profound bond with Madalena, an elderly baker. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $7,489
Watch the trailer on YouTube.
---
Review of last week's film ("Be With Me", 4 stars)
Steven says: There are three stories and there are three themes -- communication, love, and Theresa Chan (though she embodies the other two). Chan's story is terrific (in an inspiring sense), and her scenes, especially the final one, speak to her grace and her ability to overcome great challenges. All the senses are engaged, even if only through the actor's experiences. This is a real treat (though the editing can be seen as clunky at times).
Director: Júlia Murat
Origin: Brazil | Argentina | France
Language: Portuguese
Running time: 98 minutes
Life in a quiet village rolls slowly from one day to the next with little excitement -- until a young photographer named Rita arrives. Intent on capturing the town on film, Rita forms a profound bond with Madalena, an elderly baker. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $7,489
Watch the trailer on YouTube.
---
Review of last week's film ("Be With Me", 4 stars)
Steven says: There are three stories and there are three themes -- communication, love, and Theresa Chan (though she embodies the other two). Chan's story is terrific (in an inspiring sense), and her scenes, especially the final one, speak to her grace and her ability to overcome great challenges. All the senses are engaged, even if only through the actor's experiences. This is a real treat (though the editing can be seen as clunky at times).
Wednesday, July 10, 2013
July 17, 2013 - "Be With Me" (2005)
Be With Me, 2005
Director: Eric Khoo
Origin: Singapore
Languages: Cantonese | English | Hokkien | Mandarin
Running time: 93 minutes
This poetic film weaves together three stories of human connection with a minimalist flair. In "Meant to Be," an elderly shopkeeper experiences intense loneliness until he reads the autobiography of an extraordinary blind and deaf woman. "So in Love" explores the bittersweet relationship between two teenage girls, and "Finding Love" tells the story of a security guard who has twin passions: for food and for a woman who works in his building. (from Netflix.com)
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
---
Review of last week's film ("Abel", XXX stars)
Steven says: This is definitely not a neatly packaged film, which makes for great interpretation and analysis. What is the true role of a father, and can it even be simply defined? Add to that mental health issues, and you have a film that takes you on an interesting, and sometimes freaky, journey.
Director: Eric Khoo
Origin: Singapore
Languages: Cantonese | English | Hokkien | Mandarin
Running time: 93 minutes
This poetic film weaves together three stories of human connection with a minimalist flair. In "Meant to Be," an elderly shopkeeper experiences intense loneliness until he reads the autobiography of an extraordinary blind and deaf woman. "So in Love" explores the bittersweet relationship between two teenage girls, and "Finding Love" tells the story of a security guard who has twin passions: for food and for a woman who works in his building. (from Netflix.com)
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
---
Review of last week's film ("Abel", XXX stars)
Steven says: This is definitely not a neatly packaged film, which makes for great interpretation and analysis. What is the true role of a father, and can it even be simply defined? Add to that mental health issues, and you have a film that takes you on an interesting, and sometimes freaky, journey.
Saturday, July 6, 2013
July 10, 2013 - "Abel" (2011)
Abel, 2011
Director: Diego Luna
Origin: Mexico
Language: Spanish
Running time: 82 minutes
When 9-year-old Abel assumes his absent father's role as man of the house, he garners his family's respect, and life resumes a comfortable rhythm -- until a man arrives at the house, claiming he's the long-lost patriarch. (from Netflix.com)
Watch the trailer on YouTube.
---
Review of last week's film ("The Kid with a Bike", 3 stars)
Steven says: I really like the Dardenne brothers and their films, and this one had great reviews. But it seemed to lack the nuance and believability of their other films. It is still packed with emotion, and the directors know how to get the audience to care about their characters. It's also an interesting look at institutional justice vs. street justice.
Director: Diego Luna
Origin: Mexico
Language: Spanish
Running time: 82 minutes
When 9-year-old Abel assumes his absent father's role as man of the house, he garners his family's respect, and life resumes a comfortable rhythm -- until a man arrives at the house, claiming he's the long-lost patriarch. (from Netflix.com)
Watch the trailer on YouTube.
---
Review of last week's film ("The Kid with a Bike", 3 stars)
Steven says: I really like the Dardenne brothers and their films, and this one had great reviews. But it seemed to lack the nuance and believability of their other films. It is still packed with emotion, and the directors know how to get the audience to care about their characters. It's also an interesting look at institutional justice vs. street justice.
Wednesday, June 26, 2013
July 3, 2013 - "The Kid with a Bike" (2011)
The Kid with a Bike, 2011
Directors: Luc Dardenne, Jean-Pierre Dardenne
Origin: Belgium | France | Italy
Language: French
Running time: 87 minutes
After being abandoned by his deadbeat dad, 11-year-old Cyril Catoul is virtually adopted by a goodhearted hairdresser who tries to help him. But despite her kindness, the disillusioned boy soon falls in with a young drug peddler. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated PG-13 for thematic elements, violence, brief language and smoking
U.S.box office: $1,384,749
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
---
Review of last week's film ("Alice's House," 4 stars)
Steven says: Redeeming qualities are hard to find in this film's characters, except for the grandmother, who sees all. Instead, individual wants (realistic and not) take center stage, shoving aside the chance for a family unit that clicks. The oppressive house in the title takes a toll on its inhabitants.
Directors: Luc Dardenne, Jean-Pierre Dardenne
Origin: Belgium | France | Italy
Language: French
Running time: 87 minutes
After being abandoned by his deadbeat dad, 11-year-old Cyril Catoul is virtually adopted by a goodhearted hairdresser who tries to help him. But despite her kindness, the disillusioned boy soon falls in with a young drug peddler. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated PG-13 for thematic elements, violence, brief language and smoking
U.S.box office: $1,384,749
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
---
Review of last week's film ("Alice's House," 4 stars)
Steven says: Redeeming qualities are hard to find in this film's characters, except for the grandmother, who sees all. Instead, individual wants (realistic and not) take center stage, shoving aside the chance for a family unit that clicks. The oppressive house in the title takes a toll on its inhabitants.
Thursday, June 20, 2013
June 26, 2013 - "Alice's House" (2007)
Alice's House, 2007
Director: Chico Teixeira
Origin: Brazil
Language: Portuguese
Running time: 92 minutes
Manicurist Alice (Carla Ribas) is the dutiful center of a crowded Sao Paolo apartment that includes her oafish cabbie husband (Zecarlos Machado), her put-upon mother (Berta Zemel) and her three sons. Life's tiny dramas rule the home until an innocent flirtation yields huge consequences. Brazilian director Chico Teixeira's affecting first feature was an official selection at the 2007 Chicago International Film Festival. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $61,678
Watch the trailer on Netflix.
Rating: Equivalent to PG-13 in Brazil and Portugal
---
Rating of last week's film ("The Well-Digger's Daughter", 3.5 stars)Steven says: A beautifully set movie (Provence, France is gorgeous!) with great acting. The story leans toward the melodramatic, with strong reminders of what was acceptable in 1910s French society and how far we've come.
Director: Chico Teixeira
Origin: Brazil
Language: Portuguese
Running time: 92 minutes
Manicurist Alice (Carla Ribas) is the dutiful center of a crowded Sao Paolo apartment that includes her oafish cabbie husband (Zecarlos Machado), her put-upon mother (Berta Zemel) and her three sons. Life's tiny dramas rule the home until an innocent flirtation yields huge consequences. Brazilian director Chico Teixeira's affecting first feature was an official selection at the 2007 Chicago International Film Festival. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $61,678
Watch the trailer on Netflix.
Rating: Equivalent to PG-13 in Brazil and Portugal
---
Rating of last week's film ("The Well-Digger's Daughter", 3.5 stars)Steven says: A beautifully set movie (Provence, France is gorgeous!) with great acting. The story leans toward the melodramatic, with strong reminders of what was acceptable in 1910s French society and how far we've come.
Wednesday, June 12, 2013
June 19, 2013 - "The Well-Digger's Daughter" (2011)
The Well-Digger's Daughter, 2011
Director: Daniel Auetiel
Origin: France
Language: French
Running time: 107 minutes
Pascale, a widowed laborer, lives in Provence, raising five daughters alone until his eldest daughter returns home to help care for her sisters. But a young pilot and the approaching shadow of World War I change Pascale's hopes for the future. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $385,406
Watch the trailer on YouTube.
---
Review of last week's film (The Pool, 3.5 stars )
Steven says:An American documentary director takes a shot at a fiction film that takes place in India, with a script in the native language. And he nails it. It's unassuming yet revelatory; beautiful yet realistic; tender among harsh conditions. The actual pool looms over Venkatesh, the main character. What is its grander significance? Why is it pristine in an overgrown garden? Why is it a focal point without swimmers? It ends as one chapter ends with so many possibilities for the characters' futures.
Director: Daniel Auetiel
Origin: France
Language: French
Running time: 107 minutes
Pascale, a widowed laborer, lives in Provence, raising five daughters alone until his eldest daughter returns home to help care for her sisters. But a young pilot and the approaching shadow of World War I change Pascale's hopes for the future. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $385,406
Watch the trailer on YouTube.
---
Review of last week's film (The Pool, 3.5 stars )
Steven says:An American documentary director takes a shot at a fiction film that takes place in India, with a script in the native language. And he nails it. It's unassuming yet revelatory; beautiful yet realistic; tender among harsh conditions. The actual pool looms over Venkatesh, the main character. What is its grander significance? Why is it pristine in an overgrown garden? Why is it a focal point without swimmers? It ends as one chapter ends with so many possibilities for the characters' futures.
Sunday, June 9, 2013
June 12, 2013 - "The Pool" (2007)
The Pool, 2007
Director: Chris Smith
Origin: USA | UK
Language: Hindi
Running time: 98 minutes
In this seriocomic study of class differences in India, a young hotel worker becomes obsessed with a swimming pool at an opulent mansion in Panjom, Goa. His life takes a wild turn when he meets the mysterious family that arrives at the house. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $94,901
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
Director: Chris Smith
Origin: USA | UK
Language: Hindi
Running time: 98 minutes
In this seriocomic study of class differences in India, a young hotel worker becomes obsessed with a swimming pool at an opulent mansion in Panjom, Goa. His life takes a wild turn when he meets the mysterious family that arrives at the house. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $94,901
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
Wednesday, May 29, 2013
June 5, 2013 - "The Pope's Toilet" (2007)
The Pope's Toilet, 2007
Directors: César Charlone, Enrique Fernández
Origin: Uruguay
Language: Spanish
Running time: 90 minutes
While others in his small Uruguayan border town rush to prepare food in anticipation of the pope's arrival, Beto (César Troncoso) turns his attention to scatological matters: After all, if tourists turn up to eat, they'll also need a place to relieve themselves. But as Beto embarks on his mission to build a public toilet that's fit for the masses, he runs into a series of problems that threaten to derail his dreams. (from Netflix.com)
Watch the trailer on Netflix.
---
Review of last week's film ("We Have a Pope", three stars)
Steven says: Amid the worldwide spectacle and canonical pomp of choosing a pope, we find a very human conclave of cardinals. In this imagining, the gathered cardinals pray to not be chosen, and the chosen one panics and then escapes to have a chance to reflect on his new reality. The worlds of the now anonymous pontiff and the cardinals are vastly different, and that affects the outcome of the film. While it is choppy and unmoored, much like the main character, the film is a welcome chance to wonder "what if?".
Directors: César Charlone, Enrique Fernández
Origin: Uruguay
Language: Spanish
Running time: 90 minutes
While others in his small Uruguayan border town rush to prepare food in anticipation of the pope's arrival, Beto (César Troncoso) turns his attention to scatological matters: After all, if tourists turn up to eat, they'll also need a place to relieve themselves. But as Beto embarks on his mission to build a public toilet that's fit for the masses, he runs into a series of problems that threaten to derail his dreams. (from Netflix.com)
Watch the trailer on Netflix.
---
Review of last week's film ("We Have a Pope", three stars)
Steven says: Amid the worldwide spectacle and canonical pomp of choosing a pope, we find a very human conclave of cardinals. In this imagining, the gathered cardinals pray to not be chosen, and the chosen one panics and then escapes to have a chance to reflect on his new reality. The worlds of the now anonymous pontiff and the cardinals are vastly different, and that affects the outcome of the film. While it is choppy and unmoored, much like the main character, the film is a welcome chance to wonder "what if?".
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
May 29, 2013 - "We Have a Pope" (2011)
We Have a Pope, 2011
Director: Nanni Moretti
Origin: Italy
Languages: Italian | German | Latin | English | Spanish | Polish | French
Running time: 102 minutes
The pope has died, and the congress of cardinals has chosen his successor. But what happens if the newly elected pontiff doesn't want the job? This comedy follows the Vatican's travails as it strives to make one cardinal accept his destiny. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $480,926
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
---
Review of last week's film ("Duck Season", 4.5 stars)
Steven says: We've all been there - a lazy, Sunday with no plans and limitless possibilities. What do you do? Two 14-year-old boys take us on their apartment-centered adventure, populated by an overqualified pizza delivery man and a baking-challenged 16-year-old neighbor. It's funny, astute, captivating, revealing and almost perfect. A great debut from the director, Fernando Eimbcke.
Director: Nanni Moretti
Origin: Italy
Languages: Italian | German | Latin | English | Spanish | Polish | French
Running time: 102 minutes
The pope has died, and the congress of cardinals has chosen his successor. But what happens if the newly elected pontiff doesn't want the job? This comedy follows the Vatican's travails as it strives to make one cardinal accept his destiny. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $480,926
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
---
Review of last week's film ("Duck Season", 4.5 stars)
Steven says: We've all been there - a lazy, Sunday with no plans and limitless possibilities. What do you do? Two 14-year-old boys take us on their apartment-centered adventure, populated by an overqualified pizza delivery man and a baking-challenged 16-year-old neighbor. It's funny, astute, captivating, revealing and almost perfect. A great debut from the director, Fernando Eimbcke.
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
May 22, 2013 - "Duck Season" (2006)
Duck Season, 2006
Director: Fernando Eimbcke
Origin: Mexico
Language: Spanish
Running time: 90 minutes
What begins as another ordinary, quiet Sunday spirals into a chaotic adventure for two teens left home alone. Equipped with their usual video games, best friends Flama (Daniel Miranda) and Moko (Diego Catano) settle in for a pleasant, if predictable, afternoon. But an unexpected encounter with an alluring adolescent neighbor and the intrusion of an idiosyncratic pizza deliveryman conspire to make the day a memorable occasion. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated R for language and some drug content
U.S. box office: $146,694
Watch the trailer on Netflix.
---
Review of last week's film ("Chicken with Plums," 4.5 stars)
Steven says: You can't help but be enchanted by the story-telling techniques of this film based on the graphic novel by Marjane Satrapi (Persepolis). With allusions to Iran's changing culture in the 1950s, the story centers on a disillusioned and depressed violinist and his family. It delights with humor (via lines and scenes) and expands your perspective with animation and surprising revelations. Providing details only muddies the expectations, and they would not serve to prepare one for viewing this treat.
Director: Fernando Eimbcke
Origin: Mexico
Language: Spanish
Running time: 90 minutes
What begins as another ordinary, quiet Sunday spirals into a chaotic adventure for two teens left home alone. Equipped with their usual video games, best friends Flama (Daniel Miranda) and Moko (Diego Catano) settle in for a pleasant, if predictable, afternoon. But an unexpected encounter with an alluring adolescent neighbor and the intrusion of an idiosyncratic pizza deliveryman conspire to make the day a memorable occasion. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated R for language and some drug content
U.S. box office: $146,694
Watch the trailer on Netflix.
---
Review of last week's film ("Chicken with Plums," 4.5 stars)
Steven says: You can't help but be enchanted by the story-telling techniques of this film based on the graphic novel by Marjane Satrapi (Persepolis). With allusions to Iran's changing culture in the 1950s, the story centers on a disillusioned and depressed violinist and his family. It delights with humor (via lines and scenes) and expands your perspective with animation and surprising revelations. Providing details only muddies the expectations, and they would not serve to prepare one for viewing this treat.
Monday, May 13, 2013
May 15, 2013 - "Chicken with Plums" (2011)
Chicken with Plums, 2011
Director: Vincent Paronnaud, Marjane Satrapi
Origin: France | Germany | Belgium
Languages: French | English
Running time: 93 minutes
From the Oscar-nominated filmmakers of Persepolis comes a captivating live-action fairytale set in 1950s Tehran. After the destruction of his favorite violin, a renowned musician loses all taste for life and teeters on the edge of oblivion. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated PG-13 for some drug content, violent images, sensuality and smoking.
U.S. box office: $253,705
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
Director: Vincent Paronnaud, Marjane Satrapi
Origin: France | Germany | Belgium
Languages: French | English
Running time: 93 minutes
From the Oscar-nominated filmmakers of Persepolis comes a captivating live-action fairytale set in 1950s Tehran. After the destruction of his favorite violin, a renowned musician loses all taste for life and teeters on the edge of oblivion. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated PG-13 for some drug content, violent images, sensuality and smoking.
U.S. box office: $253,705
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
Sunday, May 12, 2013
Announcing the Summer 2013 season
The Summer 2013 Season is May 15 – August 7, 2013.
All screenings for this season begin at 7:00 p.m. in Forney Hall, Room B124, 480 Stadium Mall Drive, on the Purdue University campus.
Parking is available in the Northwestern Avenue parking garage.
All screenings for this season begin at 7:00 p.m. in Forney Hall, Room B124, 480 Stadium Mall Drive, on the Purdue University campus.
Parking is available in the Northwestern Avenue parking garage.
- Wednesday, May 15, 2013, Chicken with Plums, 2011; Directors: Vincent Paronnaud, Marjane Satrapi; Origin: France | Germany | Belgium; Languages: French | English; Running time: 93 minutes
- Wednesday, May 22, 2013, Duck Season, 2006; Director: Fernando Eimbcke; Origin: Mexico; Language: Spanish; Running time: 90 minutes
- Wednesday, May 29, 2013, We Have a Pope, 2011; Director: Nanni Moretti; Origin: Italy; Languages: Italian | German | Latin | English | Spanish | Polish | French; Running time: 102 minutes
- Wednesday, June 5, 2013, The Pope's Toilet, 2007; Directors: César Charlone, Enrique Fernández; Origin: Uruguay; Language: Spanish; Running time: 90 minutes
- Wednesday, June 12, 2013, The Pool, 2007; Director: Chris Smith; Origin: USA | UK; Language: Hindi; Running time: 98 minutes
- Wednesday, June 19, 2013, The Well-Digger's Daughter, 2011; Director: Daniel Auetiel; Origin: France; Language: French; Running time: 107 minutes
- Wednesday, June 26, 2013, Alice's House, 2007; Director: Chico Teixeira; Origin: Brazil; Language: Portuguese; Running time: 92 minutes
- Wednesday, July 3, 2013, The Kid with a Bike, 2011; Directors: Luc Dardenne, Jean-Pierre Dardenne; Origin: Belgium | France | Italy; Language: French; Running time: 87 minutes
- Wednesday, July 10, 2013, Abel, 2011; Director: Diego Luna; Origin: Mexico; Language: Spanish; Running time: 82 minutes
- Wednesday, July 17, 2013, Be With Me, 2005; Director: Eric Khoo; Origin: Singapore; Language: Cantonese | English | Hokkien | Mandarin; Running time: 93 minutes
- Wednesday, July 24, 2013, Found Memories, 2011; Director: Júlia Murat; Origin: Brazil | Argentina | France; Language: Portuguese; Running time: 98 minutes
- Wednesday, July 31, 2013, I Wish, 2011; Director: Hirokazu Koreeda; Origin: Japan; Language: Japanese; Running time: 128 minutes
- Wednesday, August 7, 2013, Starlet, 2012; Director: Sean Barker; Origin: USA; Language: English; Running time: 103 minutes
Wednesday, April 24, 2013
May 1, 2013 - "Beasts of the Southern Wild" (2012)
Beasts of the Southern Wild, 2012
Director: Benh Zeitlin
Origin: USA
Language: English
Running time: 93 min
This fantastical drama follows a little girl named Hushpuppy who lives in a dilapidated pocket of homes in the Mississippi Delta. When her father falls ill and natural disasters strike, Hushpuppy sets off to find her long-lost mother. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated PG-13 for thematic material including child imperilment, some disturbing images, language and brief sensuality
U.S. box office: $11,240,985
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
---
Review of last week's film ("In Darkness", 4 stars)
Steven says: Yes, it's a WWII film, similar to so many others that tell stories of how some Jews were able to survive with the help others. The similarity doesn't make it any less hard-hitting or less valuable to watch, learn and remember. The emotions we experience with the hidden Jews and their helper are real; and they also remind us that life still goes on, despite what evils we dream up. The final line of the film is so telling, so heartfelt, so poignant.
Director: Benh Zeitlin
Origin: USA
Language: English
Running time: 93 min
This fantastical drama follows a little girl named Hushpuppy who lives in a dilapidated pocket of homes in the Mississippi Delta. When her father falls ill and natural disasters strike, Hushpuppy sets off to find her long-lost mother. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated PG-13 for thematic material including child imperilment, some disturbing images, language and brief sensuality
U.S. box office: $11,240,985
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
---
Review of last week's film ("In Darkness", 4 stars)
Steven says: Yes, it's a WWII film, similar to so many others that tell stories of how some Jews were able to survive with the help others. The similarity doesn't make it any less hard-hitting or less valuable to watch, learn and remember. The emotions we experience with the hidden Jews and their helper are real; and they also remind us that life still goes on, despite what evils we dream up. The final line of the film is so telling, so heartfelt, so poignant.
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
April 24, 2013 - "In Darkness" (2011)
In Darkness, 2011
Director: Agnieszka Holland
Origin: Poland | Germany | Canada
Languages: Polish | Ukrainian | Yiddish | German
Running time: 145 min
As Nazis overrun Warsaw, many of the city's Jews hide out in sewers, where they encounter Leopold, an anti-Semitic sanitation worker. His prejudice reflects the rift between Poland's Jews and Catholics in this film inspired by true events. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated R for violence, disturbing images, sexuality, nudity and language
U.S. box office: $1,038,733
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
---
Review of last week's films ("Not One Less", 3.5 stars)Steven says: A substitute teacher, a missing student, and a promise that all students would be accounted for when the regular teacher returns in a month. What follows is a teenager's persistence in the face of what seems like insurmountable odds. From a tiny country school to a teeming city, the 13-year-old teacher searches for her most frustrating student, which is all a part of a larger message about the plight of education in rural China.
Director: Agnieszka Holland
Origin: Poland | Germany | Canada
Languages: Polish | Ukrainian | Yiddish | German
Running time: 145 min
As Nazis overrun Warsaw, many of the city's Jews hide out in sewers, where they encounter Leopold, an anti-Semitic sanitation worker. His prejudice reflects the rift between Poland's Jews and Catholics in this film inspired by true events. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated R for violence, disturbing images, sexuality, nudity and language
U.S. box office: $1,038,733
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
---
Review of last week's films ("Not One Less", 3.5 stars)Steven says: A substitute teacher, a missing student, and a promise that all students would be accounted for when the regular teacher returns in a month. What follows is a teenager's persistence in the face of what seems like insurmountable odds. From a tiny country school to a teeming city, the 13-year-old teacher searches for her most frustrating student, which is all a part of a larger message about the plight of education in rural China.
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
April 17, 2013 - "Not One Less" (1999)
Not One Less, 1999
The final of three films we're screening from Chinese director Yimou Zhang.
Director: Yimou Zhang
Origin: China
Language: Mandarin
Running time: 106 min
Master Chinese filmmaker Zhang Yimou turns his lens on the travails of modern China's peasants. When teacher Gao (Gao Enman) leaves town for a month, 13-year old Wei (Wei Minzhi) is pressed into serving as his substitute at the school. If she keeps her class intact, she will receive a bonus. But when a student leaves for the city, she follows and strives relentlessly to bring him back. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $589,114
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
Read Yimou Zhang's biography from the New York Times.
----
Review of last week's film ("To Live", directed by Yimou Zhang, )
Steven says: Transpiring over 30 years, its amazing it only last two hours! The director makes us feel the heartache and fear that the main characters live with in each passing governmental iteration in China from the 1940s to the early 1970s. But within the regimented lives, humanity still exists, in a practical joke, the defense of a sibling or the wedding of a daughter. They endure "to live", simple and profound.
The final of three films we're screening from Chinese director Yimou Zhang.
Director: Yimou Zhang
Origin: China
Language: Mandarin
Running time: 106 min
Master Chinese filmmaker Zhang Yimou turns his lens on the travails of modern China's peasants. When teacher Gao (Gao Enman) leaves town for a month, 13-year old Wei (Wei Minzhi) is pressed into serving as his substitute at the school. If she keeps her class intact, she will receive a bonus. But when a student leaves for the city, she follows and strives relentlessly to bring him back. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $589,114
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
Read Yimou Zhang's biography from the New York Times.
----
Review of last week's film ("To Live", directed by Yimou Zhang, )
Steven says: Transpiring over 30 years, its amazing it only last two hours! The director makes us feel the heartache and fear that the main characters live with in each passing governmental iteration in China from the 1940s to the early 1970s. But within the regimented lives, humanity still exists, in a practical joke, the defense of a sibling or the wedding of a daughter. They endure "to live", simple and profound.
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
April 10, 2013 - "To Live" (1994)
To Live, 1994
The second of three films we're screening from Chinese director Yimou Zhang.
Director: Yimou Zhang
Origin: China | Hong Kong
Languages: Mandarin | Japanese
Running time: 125 min
A bold, energetic masterpiece from Zhang Yimou, the foremost director from China's influential "fifth generation" of filmmakers. Continuing his brilliant collaboration with China's best-known actress, Gong Li, Zhang weaves a tapestry of personal and political events, following the struggles of an impoverished husband and wife (Ge You and Li) from their heyday in the 1940s to the hardships that accompanied the Cultural Revolution in the 1960s. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $2,332,728
Watch the trailer on Netflix.
Read Yimou Zhang's biography from the New York Times.
----
Review of last week's film ("Ju Dou", directed by Yimou Zhang, 4 stars)
Steven says: This was more melodramatic than I expected, but the over-the-top story was matched by the intense imagery, color, and themes. Described by some as a morality play, it shows us how freedom of choice has undesired consequences, especially in a time and culture where life is dictated more than lived. The makeshift transportation for a paralyzed character was especially creepy; that was balanced by the ingenuity of the mechanics behind the 1920s dye mill.
The second of three films we're screening from Chinese director Yimou Zhang.
Director: Yimou Zhang
Origin: China | Hong Kong
Languages: Mandarin | Japanese
Running time: 125 min
A bold, energetic masterpiece from Zhang Yimou, the foremost director from China's influential "fifth generation" of filmmakers. Continuing his brilliant collaboration with China's best-known actress, Gong Li, Zhang weaves a tapestry of personal and political events, following the struggles of an impoverished husband and wife (Ge You and Li) from their heyday in the 1940s to the hardships that accompanied the Cultural Revolution in the 1960s. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $2,332,728
Watch the trailer on Netflix.
Read Yimou Zhang's biography from the New York Times.
----
Review of last week's film ("Ju Dou", directed by Yimou Zhang, 4 stars)
Steven says: This was more melodramatic than I expected, but the over-the-top story was matched by the intense imagery, color, and themes. Described by some as a morality play, it shows us how freedom of choice has undesired consequences, especially in a time and culture where life is dictated more than lived. The makeshift transportation for a paralyzed character was especially creepy; that was balanced by the ingenuity of the mechanics behind the 1920s dye mill.
Wednesday, March 27, 2013
April 3, 2013 - "Ju Dou" (1990)
Ju Dou, 1990
The first of three films we're screening from Chinese director Yimou Zhang.
Director: Yimou Zhang
Origin: Japan | China
Language: Mandarin
Running time: 94 min
In this romantic tragedy, Chinese director Yimou Zhang's visually sumptuous cinematography complements the sensual story line in which the abused wife (Gong Li) of a wealthy silk dyer (Li Wei) enters into an affair with her husband's nephew (Li Bao-tian). Arresting images, exquisite use of color and a classic yet complex plot combine for a richly satisfying drama that earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Foreign Language Film. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $1,986,433
Watch the trailer on YouTube.
Read Yimou Zhang's biography from the New York Times.
---
Review of last week's film (Mr. and Mrs. Iyer, 3.5 stars)
Steven says: This is a movie of extremes -- extreme normalcy and extreme violence, though we only experiece the latter through secondhand reactions and storyline. Within those two extremes, two strangers thrown together figure out that their cultural differences can be overcome to create a friendship, and maybe more. Much of the cultural references are lost on non-Indian viewers, but the story is still worth the time to see additional perspectives on this centuries-old issue of clashing cultures.
The first of three films we're screening from Chinese director Yimou Zhang.
Director: Yimou Zhang
Origin: Japan | China
Language: Mandarin
Running time: 94 min
In this romantic tragedy, Chinese director Yimou Zhang's visually sumptuous cinematography complements the sensual story line in which the abused wife (Gong Li) of a wealthy silk dyer (Li Wei) enters into an affair with her husband's nephew (Li Bao-tian). Arresting images, exquisite use of color and a classic yet complex plot combine for a richly satisfying drama that earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Foreign Language Film. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $1,986,433
Watch the trailer on YouTube.
Read Yimou Zhang's biography from the New York Times.
---
Review of last week's film (Mr. and Mrs. Iyer, 3.5 stars)
Steven says: This is a movie of extremes -- extreme normalcy and extreme violence, though we only experiece the latter through secondhand reactions and storyline. Within those two extremes, two strangers thrown together figure out that their cultural differences can be overcome to create a friendship, and maybe more. Much of the cultural references are lost on non-Indian viewers, but the story is still worth the time to see additional perspectives on this centuries-old issue of clashing cultures.
Wednesday, March 20, 2013
March 27, 2013 - "Mr and Mrs. Iyer" (2002)
Mr. and Mrs. Iyer, 2002
Director: Aparna Sen
Origin: India
Languages: English | Tamil | Bengali | Hindi | Punjabi | Urdu
Running time: 120 min
Mrs. Iyer is traveling by bus to Calcutta to be with her husband. But a flare-up between Hindus and Muslim extremists closes the roads, and a curfew descends. While the riders are trapped on the bus, a gang of Hindus boards to ferret out any Muslims. Mrs. Iyer was brought up to believe that Muslims were inferior, but during the journey, she comes to realize that it's who a person is, not their religions, that's the defining factor. (from Netflix.com)
---
Review of last week's film ("Oslo, August 31st", 4.5 stars)Steven says: It's a matter of perspective. Audiences may say depressing, but the director says, "the saddest moments in life still have beauty". I wanted badly for the main character to break free from what holds him back. His choices, as he foreshadowed, get the best of him, however. It's a nearly perfect film, with terrific and nuanced performances throughout, beautiful cinematography, and a couple of montage scenes that left me wanting more and similar observations. The director, Joachim Trier, is on a role in only his second feature film.
Director: Aparna Sen
Origin: India
Languages: English | Tamil | Bengali | Hindi | Punjabi | Urdu
Running time: 120 min
Mrs. Iyer is traveling by bus to Calcutta to be with her husband. But a flare-up between Hindus and Muslim extremists closes the roads, and a curfew descends. While the riders are trapped on the bus, a gang of Hindus boards to ferret out any Muslims. Mrs. Iyer was brought up to believe that Muslims were inferior, but during the journey, she comes to realize that it's who a person is, not their religions, that's the defining factor. (from Netflix.com)
---
Review of last week's film ("Oslo, August 31st", 4.5 stars)Steven says: It's a matter of perspective. Audiences may say depressing, but the director says, "the saddest moments in life still have beauty". I wanted badly for the main character to break free from what holds him back. His choices, as he foreshadowed, get the best of him, however. It's a nearly perfect film, with terrific and nuanced performances throughout, beautiful cinematography, and a couple of montage scenes that left me wanting more and similar observations. The director, Joachim Trier, is on a role in only his second feature film.
Monday, March 18, 2013
March 20, 2013 - "Oslo, August 31st" (2011)
Oslo, August 31st, 2011
Director: Joachim Trier
Origin: Norway
Language: Norwegian | English
Running time: 95 min
This psychological drama follows a day in the life of Anders, a recovering drug addict who travels to his old stomping grounds of Oslo for a job interview. While there, he must confront his past as well as his plans for a new life. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $100,713
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
Director: Joachim Trier
Origin: Norway
Language: Norwegian | English
Running time: 95 min
This psychological drama follows a day in the life of Anders, a recovering drug addict who travels to his old stomping grounds of Oslo for a job interview. While there, he must confront his past as well as his plans for a new life. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $100,713
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
March 6, 2013 - "8 1/2" (1963)
8 1/2, 1963
Director: Federico Fellini
Origin: Italy | France
Languages: Italian | English | French | German
Running time: 138 min
Dog-tired movie director Guido Anselmi retreats to thoughts of yesteryear when his producers, his wife and his mistress all pressure him to start making another movie in director Federico Fellini's rumination on the joys and rigors of filmmaking. (from Netflix.com)
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
---
Review of last week's film ("Elena", 4 stars )
Steven says: It's a Russian film with an anywhere premise. What's important to the film is that there is money; some people have it, other people want it. What does having money mean to each character? And even if they have it, does it help them in the way they expect? It's paced slowly, with ambient sounds sometimes louder than the dialogue. There are a few surprises and great acting from the title character.
Director: Federico Fellini
Origin: Italy | France
Languages: Italian | English | French | German
Running time: 138 min
Dog-tired movie director Guido Anselmi retreats to thoughts of yesteryear when his producers, his wife and his mistress all pressure him to start making another movie in director Federico Fellini's rumination on the joys and rigors of filmmaking. (from Netflix.com)
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
---
Review of last week's film ("Elena", 4 stars )
Steven says: It's a Russian film with an anywhere premise. What's important to the film is that there is money; some people have it, other people want it. What does having money mean to each character? And even if they have it, does it help them in the way they expect? It's paced slowly, with ambient sounds sometimes louder than the dialogue. There are a few surprises and great acting from the title character.
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
February 27, 2013 - "Elena" (2011)
Elena, 2011
Director: Andrey Zvyagintsev
Origin: Russia
Language: Russian
Running time: 109 min
Middle-aged Elena is a meek wife to her emotionally distant second husband, Vladimir. When he decides to leave his riches to his estranged daughter, Elena chooses to take drastic action to provide for her own adult son. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $228,239
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
---
Review of last week's film ("Eternity and a Day", 3.5 stars)
Steven says: Complex and dreamlike, we never fully know what is real and what is part of the narrator's dreams. But we do know this film touches on several themes: the power of memories and of words, the importance of human connection, the perspective of "an outsider". Each scene could stand on its own as a short film, there's so much going on in single takes.The images created by the director alternate between haunting and celebratory. It's a rich experience.
Director: Andrey Zvyagintsev
Origin: Russia
Language: Russian
Running time: 109 min
Middle-aged Elena is a meek wife to her emotionally distant second husband, Vladimir. When he decides to leave his riches to his estranged daughter, Elena chooses to take drastic action to provide for her own adult son. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $228,239
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
---
Review of last week's film ("Eternity and a Day", 3.5 stars)
Steven says: Complex and dreamlike, we never fully know what is real and what is part of the narrator's dreams. But we do know this film touches on several themes: the power of memories and of words, the importance of human connection, the perspective of "an outsider". Each scene could stand on its own as a short film, there's so much going on in single takes.The images created by the director alternate between haunting and celebratory. It's a rich experience.
Wednesday, February 13, 2013
February 20, 2013 - "Eternity and a Day" (1998)
Eternity and a Day, 1998
Director: Theo Angelopoulos
Origin: Greece | France | Germany | Italy
Languages: Greek | Italian
Running time: 137 min
When Alexandre (Bruno Ganz), a famed Greek author, learns he hasn't long to live, he sets aside his current project and soon meets an Albanian immigrant street urchin (Achileas Skevis), whom he rescues from slave traders. On a journey to reunite the boy with his family, the two share a bus ride with several musicians and a poet (Fabrizio Bentivoglio). This dreamlike drama won the Golden Palm at the Cannes Film Festival. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $106,486
Watch the trailer on YouTube.
-----
Review of last week's film ("Romantics Anonymous", 4 stars)
Steven says:The laughs started within the first 30 seconds of the film, and they never really let up. The writing was simple and funny, the timing and editing crucially accurate, and the overall film sweet and joyful. And there's chocolate -- good chocolate. It's a great date movie or Valentine's offering without being too sickly sweet or offering a forced star-crossed storyllne.
Director: Theo Angelopoulos
Origin: Greece | France | Germany | Italy
Languages: Greek | Italian
Running time: 137 min
When Alexandre (Bruno Ganz), a famed Greek author, learns he hasn't long to live, he sets aside his current project and soon meets an Albanian immigrant street urchin (Achileas Skevis), whom he rescues from slave traders. On a journey to reunite the boy with his family, the two share a bus ride with several musicians and a poet (Fabrizio Bentivoglio). This dreamlike drama won the Golden Palm at the Cannes Film Festival. (from Netflix.com)
U.S. box office: $106,486
Watch the trailer on YouTube.
-----
Review of last week's film ("Romantics Anonymous", 4 stars)
Steven says:The laughs started within the first 30 seconds of the film, and they never really let up. The writing was simple and funny, the timing and editing crucially accurate, and the overall film sweet and joyful. And there's chocolate -- good chocolate. It's a great date movie or Valentine's offering without being too sickly sweet or offering a forced star-crossed storyllne.
Wednesday, February 6, 2013
February 13, 2013 - "Romantics Anonymous" (2010)
It's our Valentine's Day offering . . .
Romantics Anonymous, 2010
Director: Jean-Pierre Améris
Origin: France | Belgium
Language: French
Running time: 80 min
Love and chocolates may yet win the day in this delightful romantic comedy, which follows the slow-burn romance of talented chocolatier Angélique and chocolate-factory owner Jean-René, lonely souls who secretly share a debilitating anxiety disorder. (from Netflix.com)
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
---
Review of last week's film ("Oranges and Sunshine", 3.5 stars)
Steven says: The word "gripping" was used more than once by others to describe this film. How could it not be? Thousands of children were shipped (literally) from Britain to other countries, most often unknowingly leaving behind family members. The film is adapted from the book Empty Cradles, written by the main character, Margaret Humphreys. And so, the entire movie is seen from her point of view; we don't get full backgrounds, we don't get dramatized conversations, we don't get the explanations of why this could happen. Instead we experience everything with her: the disbelief, the shock, the outrage, the exhaustion. I was particularly struck by the performances of the orphaned children who are now adults. They made the film stand out, at least for me. Read more about the efforts: http://www.childmigrantstrust.com/
Romantics Anonymous, 2010
Director: Jean-Pierre Améris
Origin: France | Belgium
Language: French
Running time: 80 min
Love and chocolates may yet win the day in this delightful romantic comedy, which follows the slow-burn romance of talented chocolatier Angélique and chocolate-factory owner Jean-René, lonely souls who secretly share a debilitating anxiety disorder. (from Netflix.com)
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
---
Review of last week's film ("Oranges and Sunshine", 3.5 stars)
Steven says: The word "gripping" was used more than once by others to describe this film. How could it not be? Thousands of children were shipped (literally) from Britain to other countries, most often unknowingly leaving behind family members. The film is adapted from the book Empty Cradles, written by the main character, Margaret Humphreys. And so, the entire movie is seen from her point of view; we don't get full backgrounds, we don't get dramatized conversations, we don't get the explanations of why this could happen. Instead we experience everything with her: the disbelief, the shock, the outrage, the exhaustion. I was particularly struck by the performances of the orphaned children who are now adults. They made the film stand out, at least for me. Read more about the efforts: http://www.childmigrantstrust.com/
Wednesday, January 30, 2013
February 6, 2013 - "Oranges and Sunshine" (2011)
Oranges and Sunshine, 2011
Director: Jim Loach
Origin: UK | Australia
Language: English
Running time: 136 min
This drama based on a true story follows British social worker Margaret Humphreys as she uncovers a shocking deportation scandal involving thousands of children and risks her personal life to draw global attention to the grave injustice. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated R for some strong language
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
-----
Review of last week's film (In America, 4 stars)
Steven says: Sometimes I search too hard for extra meaning in films. In "In America", I think the film stands simply as a fluid story about one family trying to survive a tragic situation. And they ARE survivors, like so many others who try to get through the day, even though the thought of giving up is just as enticing. The Bolger girls are the glue for this film, and Samantha Morton and Paddy Considine are excellent as well. While sometimes the storytelling is uneven, I love the way we are forced to see situations from the perspectives of adults and children.
Director: Jim Loach
Origin: UK | Australia
Language: English
Running time: 136 min
This drama based on a true story follows British social worker Margaret Humphreys as she uncovers a shocking deportation scandal involving thousands of children and risks her personal life to draw global attention to the grave injustice. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated R for some strong language
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
-----
Review of last week's film (In America, 4 stars)
Steven says: Sometimes I search too hard for extra meaning in films. In "In America", I think the film stands simply as a fluid story about one family trying to survive a tragic situation. And they ARE survivors, like so many others who try to get through the day, even though the thought of giving up is just as enticing. The Bolger girls are the glue for this film, and Samantha Morton and Paddy Considine are excellent as well. While sometimes the storytelling is uneven, I love the way we are forced to see situations from the perspectives of adults and children.
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
January 30, 2013 - "In America" (2002)
In America, 2002
Director: Jim Sheridan
Origin: Ireland | UK
Languages: English | Spanish | Irish Gaelic
Running time: 105 min
With their two daughters in tow, Johnny and Sarah leave Ireland and head to New York so Johnny can pursue an acting career. What follows is a series of adventures, both comical and terrifying, as they struggle to make the most of their new life. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated R for sexuality and brief language
U.S. box office: $15,539,266
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
---
Review of last week's film (The Hedgehog, 4 stars)
Steven says: The simple message is this: don't judge a book by its cover. But it's told in such an intriguing way, through a video journals, fantastic art, and everyday experiences that help us see each other as individuals. It takes a real outsider to help the two local outsiders see things differently -- about themselves, their families and their lots in life.
Director: Jim Sheridan
Origin: Ireland | UK
Languages: English | Spanish | Irish Gaelic
Running time: 105 min
With their two daughters in tow, Johnny and Sarah leave Ireland and head to New York so Johnny can pursue an acting career. What follows is a series of adventures, both comical and terrifying, as they struggle to make the most of their new life. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated R for sexuality and brief language
U.S. box office: $15,539,266
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
---
Review of last week's film (The Hedgehog, 4 stars)
Steven says: The simple message is this: don't judge a book by its cover. But it's told in such an intriguing way, through a video journals, fantastic art, and everyday experiences that help us see each other as individuals. It takes a real outsider to help the two local outsiders see things differently -- about themselves, their families and their lots in life.
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
January 23, 2013 - "The Hedgehog" (2009)
The Hedgehog, 2009
Director: Mona Achache
Origin: France | Italy
Languages: French | Japanese
Running time: 100 min
Fed up with the world's hypocrisy, an 11-year-old makes plans to commit suicide on the eve of her 12th birthday. But an unlikely bond with her building's concierge and an older, elegant resident stands to alter her outlook on everything. (from Netflix.com)
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
---
Review of last week's film ("Monsieur Lazhar", 4.5 stars)Steven says: At first glance, this is a story of tragedies, one that visits a school and one that visits its substitute teacher. With a deeper look, a theme of "substitutes" emerges. Characters become for others what they need or what was taken from them. Traditional roles are filled by non-traditional characters or even by rules and regulations. And while substitutes have their places, sometimes there is no substitute for a real friend, a real hug or real family.
Director: Mona Achache
Origin: France | Italy
Languages: French | Japanese
Running time: 100 min
Fed up with the world's hypocrisy, an 11-year-old makes plans to commit suicide on the eve of her 12th birthday. But an unlikely bond with her building's concierge and an older, elegant resident stands to alter her outlook on everything. (from Netflix.com)
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
---
Review of last week's film ("Monsieur Lazhar", 4.5 stars)Steven says: At first glance, this is a story of tragedies, one that visits a school and one that visits its substitute teacher. With a deeper look, a theme of "substitutes" emerges. Characters become for others what they need or what was taken from them. Traditional roles are filled by non-traditional characters or even by rules and regulations. And while substitutes have their places, sometimes there is no substitute for a real friend, a real hug or real family.
Wednesday, January 9, 2013
January 16, 2013 - "Monsieur Lazhar" (2011)
Monsieur Lazhar, 2011
Director: Philippe Falardeau
Origin: Canada
Languages: French | English | Arabic
Running time: 94 min
When an Algerian immigrant seeking asylum in Montreal takes a job replacing an elementary school teacher who committed suicide, he finds that his own secret, tragic background enables him to help the children deal with their loss. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated PG-13 for mature thematic material, a disturbing image and brief language
U.S. box office: $2,009,041
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
-----
Review of last week's film (Saturn in Opposition, 4.5 stars)
Steven says: Often cited as an Italian "Big Chill", this film presents a realistic look at a group of friends who, while not perfect, must still carry on when their comfortable lives are shaken. We are presented with scenes that unfold in unexpected ways and scenes that slap us with an emotional wallop when we aren't looking.The story is told with a light touch, adding random details to give richer backgrounds to each of the characters.
Director: Philippe Falardeau
Origin: Canada
Languages: French | English | Arabic
Running time: 94 min
When an Algerian immigrant seeking asylum in Montreal takes a job replacing an elementary school teacher who committed suicide, he finds that his own secret, tragic background enables him to help the children deal with their loss. (from Netflix.com)
MPAA rating: Rated PG-13 for mature thematic material, a disturbing image and brief language
U.S. box office: $2,009,041
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
-----
Review of last week's film (Saturn in Opposition, 4.5 stars)
Steven says: Often cited as an Italian "Big Chill", this film presents a realistic look at a group of friends who, while not perfect, must still carry on when their comfortable lives are shaken. We are presented with scenes that unfold in unexpected ways and scenes that slap us with an emotional wallop when we aren't looking.The story is told with a light touch, adding random details to give richer backgrounds to each of the characters.
Thursday, January 3, 2013
January 9, 2013 - "Saturn in Opposition" (2007)
Saturn in Opposition, 2007
Director: Ferzan Ozpetek
Origin: Italy | France | Turkey
Language: Italian
Running time: 110 min
While having dinner at the home of Lorenzo (Luca Argentero) and his lover, Davide (Pierfrancesco Favino), a close group of friends reminisce about the past and take stock of their lives, until an unexpected tragedy begins tearing their relationships apart. Set in Rome, this drama from Italian-Turkish director Ferzan Ozpetek co-stars Ambra Angiolini, Stefano Accorsi, Margherita Buy and Serra Yilmaz. (from Netflix.com)
Watch the trailer on YouTube.
Director: Ferzan Ozpetek
Origin: Italy | France | Turkey
Language: Italian
Running time: 110 min
While having dinner at the home of Lorenzo (Luca Argentero) and his lover, Davide (Pierfrancesco Favino), a close group of friends reminisce about the past and take stock of their lives, until an unexpected tragedy begins tearing their relationships apart. Set in Rome, this drama from Italian-Turkish director Ferzan Ozpetek co-stars Ambra Angiolini, Stefano Accorsi, Margherita Buy and Serra Yilmaz. (from Netflix.com)
Watch the trailer on YouTube.
Announcing the Winter 2013 season
The Winter 2013 Season is January 9 – May 1, 2013.
All screenings for this season begin at 7:00 p.m. in Forney Hall, Room B124, 480 Stadium Mall Drive, on the Purdue University campus.
Parking is available in the Northwestern Avenue parking garage.
Three from Chinese director Yimou Zhang
All screenings for this season begin at 7:00 p.m. in Forney Hall, Room B124, 480 Stadium Mall Drive, on the Purdue University campus.
Parking is available in the Northwestern Avenue parking garage.
- Wednesday, January 9, 2013, Saturn in Opposition, 2007; Director: Ferzan Ozpetek; Origin: Italy | France | Turkey; Language(s): Italian; 110 min
- Wednesday, January 16, 2013, Monsieur Lazhar, 2011; Director: Philippe Falardeau; Origin: Canada; Language(s): French | English | Arabic; 94 min
- Wednesday, January 23, 2013, The Hedgehog, 2009; Director: Mona Achache; Origin: France | Italy; Language(s): French | Japanese; 100 min
- Wednesday, January 30, 2013, In America, 2002; Director: Jim Sheridan; Origin: Ireland | UK; Language(s): English | Spanish | Irish Gaelic; 105 min
- Wednesday, February 6, 2013, Oranges and Sunshine, 2011; Director: Jim Loach; Origin: UK | Australia; Language(s): English; 136 min
- Wednesday, February 13, 2013, Romantics Anonymous, 2010; Director: Jean-Pierre Améris; Origin: France | Belgium; Language(s): French; 80 min
- Wednesday, February 20, 2013, Eternity and a Day, 1998; Director: Theo Angelopoulos; Origin: Greece | France | Germany | Italy; Language(s): Greek | Italian; 137 min
- Wednesday, February 27, 2013, Elena, 2011; Director: Andrey Zvyagintsev; Origin: Russia; Language(s): Russian; 109 min
- Wednesday, March 6, 2013, 8 1/2, 1963; Director: Federico Fellini; Origin: Italy | France; Language(s): Italian | English | French | German; 138 min
- Wednesday, March 13, 2013, NO SCREENING (Purdue Spring Break)
- Wednesday, March 20, 2013, Oslo, August 31st, 2011; Director: Joachim Trier; Origin: Norway; Language(s): Norwegian | English; 95 min
- Wednesday, March 27, 2013, Mr. and Mrs. Iyer, 2002; Director: Aparna Sen; Origin: India; Language(s): English | Tamil | Bengali | Hindi | Punjabi | Urdu; 120 min
Three from Chinese director Yimou Zhang
- Wednesday, April 3, 2013, Ju Dou, 1990; Origin: Japan | China; Language(s): Mandarin; 94 min
- Wednesday, April 10, 2013, To Live, 1994; Origin: China | Hong Kong; Language(s): Mandarin | Japanese; 125 min
- Wednesday, April 17, 2013, Not One Less, 1999; Origin: China; Language(s): Mandarin; 106 min
- Wednesday, April 24, 2013, In Darkness, 2011; Director: Agnieszka Holland; Origin: Poland | Germany | Canada; Language(s): Polish | Ukrainian | Yiddish | German; 145 min
- Wednesday, May 1, 2013, Beasts of the Southern Wild, 2012; Director: Benh Zeitlin; Origin: USA; Language(s): English; 93 min
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