December 17, 2014 - "In the House" (2012)

The originally scheduled film for this week, "Restless City," was not available. We will try to work it in to the Winter 2015 season.

In the House, 2012

Director: François Ozon
Origin: France
Languages: French
Running time: 105 minutes

Moved by mesmerizing prose, a teacher pushes a student with extraordinary gifts to keep on writing -- even though he knows the young author's research methods involve a serious invasion of privacy. (from Netflix.com)

Watch the trailer on IMDB.

U.S. box office: $354,244
MPAA rating: R

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Review of last week's film ("Night Across the Street," 3 stars) 
Steven says: This film was not made for the casual or mainstream movie-goer. Surrealist director Raul Ruiz pays homage to several classic films while trying to find his own place in the history of film-making. It's fun to watch but doesn't make much sense unless you have lots of film background (or like surrealist films).

December 10, 2014 - "Night Across the Street" (2012)

Night Across the Street, 2012
Director: Raoul Ruiz
Origin: Chile | France
Languages: Spanish | French
Running time: 110 min

A free-flowing contemplation on aging and death inspired by the stories of Hernán del Solar, director Raoul Ruiz's final film follows as elderly man who revisits moments of his youth as he awaits the stranger he believes will kill him. (from Netflix.com)

Watch the trailer on IMDB.

Review from Film Comment magazine.

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Review of last week's film ("Omar," 4 stars)
Steven says: The life of an Arab in and around the West Bank is full of paranoia. This intense film has the viewer second-guessing who is a collaborator and who is true to his or her cause. From the director of "Paradise Now", this film made me want to find out everything there is to know about life in the West Bank.

December 3, 2014 - "Omar" (2013)

Omar, 2013
Director: Hany Abu-Assad
Origin: Palestine
Languages: Arabic | Hebrew
Running time: 96 min

With his girlfriend, Nadia, living on the other side of an Israeli-built boundary wall, young Palestinian Omar regularly scales it to visit her. But he faces even greater obstacles after a lethal confrontation with an Israeli soldier. (from Netflix.com)

U.S. box office: $640,000
Watch the trailer on IMDB.

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Review of the previously screened film ("In A World...", 3 stars)
Steven says: Creative and fun, this film focuses on the voiceover stars of Hollywood. It's a world we don't think of often. It's a strong debut by director/writer/lead Lake Bell.

November 19, 2014 - "In a World . . ." (2013)

In a World . . ., 2013
Director: Lake Bell
Origin: USA
Language: English
Running time: 93 min

Vocal coach Carol Solomon lives in the shadow of her father Sam, Hollywood's go-to movie trailer voice, as she tries to break into the field herself. Aided by her sister and a sound whiz friend, Carol jumps into an unexpectedly strange new career. (from Netflix.com)

MPAA rating: Rated R for language including some sexual references
U.S. box office: $2,962,542

Watch the trailer on IMDB.

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Review of last week's film ("Half of a Yellow Sun", 3 stars)
Steven says: The best thing about this film is that it brings to light Nigeria's history, which so many Americans may be unaware of. The film also makes me want to read the book it's based on, because I could feel like there was more to the story.

November 12, 2014 - "Half of a Yellow Sun" (2013)

Half of a Yellow Sun, 2013
Director: Biyi Bandele
Origin: Nigeria | UK
Language: English
Running time: 111 min

Twin sisters Olanna and Kainene each find unexpected romance in the late 1960s against the backdrop of Nigeria's civil war. As the conflict threatens all they hold dear, their relationships provide solace and strengthen their own bond. (from Netflix.com)

MPAA rating: Rated R for some violence and sexual content
U.S. box office: $53,645
Watch the trailer on IMDB.

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Review of last week's film ("Take Out", 3.5 stars)
Steven says: "Take Out" presents the day in the life of a Chinese delivery man, complicated by the need to collect extra tips to pay off a debt. It is unassuming and, by the end, riveting in its normalcy. The story of the making of the film is almost as enticing as the film itself.

November 5, 2014 - "Take Out" (2004)

Take Out, 2004
Directors: Sean Baker, Shih-Ching Tsou
Origin: USA
Languages: English | Mandarin | Spanish
Running time: 87 min

When an illegal immigrant finds himself behind on a large debt due to crooks who smuggled him into the country, he must come up with the payment in one day by hustling tips as he delivers Chinese food around New York City. (from Netflix.com)

U.S. box office: $66,892
Watch the trailer on IMDB.

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Review of last week's film ("When Father Was Away on Business", 3.5 stars)
Steven says: The Cannes winner in 1985, this film tackles the toll a war takes on one family that has its own dysfunctions. A working knowledge of 20th century Yugolav history would help with comprehension, but it's still an effective story.

October 29, 2014 - "When Father Was Away on Business" (1985)

When Father Was Away on Business, 1985
Director: Emir Kusturica
Origin: Yugoslavia
Languages: Serbian | Hungarian
Running time: 136 min

Yugoslavian director Emil Kusturica won the Cannes Golden Palm award for this drama that conveys the tensions between Russia and Yugoslavia in the early 1950s. The story is told from the viewpoint of 6-year-old Malik (Moreno De Bartolli), who's unaware of the real reason for his father's (Miki Manojlovic) absence. The family insists that he's away on business, but he's really in prison for his affair with the lover of a top-ranking party member. (from Netflix.com)

Watch the trailer on YouTube.

October 22, 2014 - "Black Butterflies" (2011)

Black Butterflies, 2011
Director: Paula van der Oest
Origin: Germany | Netherlands | South Africa
Language: English
Running time: 100 min

This passionate biopic profiles South African poet Ingrid Jonker, whose exuberant nature is destroyed by her repeated betrayals of her supportive lover and her complex relationship with her disapproving father, the minister of censorship. (from Netflix.com)

Watch the trailer on YouTube.

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Reveiw of the previous film (Sister, 3.5 stars)
Steven says: Surprising things are revealed in this film that promises mostly coming-of-age antics and teenage thievery. It will make you question relationships, how they were formed, and how they continue. It's a good film with lingering questions.

October 8, 2014 - "Sister" (2012)

Sister, 2012
Director: Ursula Meier
Origin: France | Switzerland
Languages: French | English
Running time: 97 min

Every day, impoverished 12-year-old Simon sneaks into a posh Swiss ski resort, where he helps himself to the gear of wealthy tourists. Benefiting from his thievery is his lazy older sister, Louise, who refuses to live up to her responsibilities. (from Netflix.com)

Watch the trailer on YouTube.

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Review of last week's film (The Matchmaker, 3.5 stars)
Stevens say: Set in 1968, this is a lighthearted Israeli film is infused with a smidgen of mystery and built on the difficult memories of the Holocaust. The teenaged protagonist learns about love ("why do Americans protest 'make love not war'. Wasn't there more important things than love?", he asks.) from a matchmaker and a free-spirited girl visiting for the summer.

October 1, 2014 - "The Matchmaker" (2010)

The Matchmaker, 2010
Director: Avi Nesher
Origin: Israel
Language: Hebrew
Running time: 121 minutes

In an Israel still recovering from World War II yet also grappling with the tumultuous "Swinging Sixties," teenager Arik works for matchmaker Yankele Bride as a "spy-guy" who investigates potential clients, and gets a master class in the art of love. (from Netflix.com)

Watch the trailer on YouTube.

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Review of last week's film ("Two Lives", 3.5 stars)
Steven says: Here is another history film where we learn things never touched upon in our history classes. The story telling is tense and suspenseful, and the audience is given only information they need at the moment. This is definitely worth a watch.

September 24, 2014 - "Two Lives" (2012)

Two Lives, 2012
Director: Georg Maas
Origin: Germany | Norway
Languages: German | Norwegian | English | Russian | Danish
Running time: 97 min

As the European communist bloc is collapsing, Katrine's quiet life in Norway is interrupted by questions about her early years in East Germany. With the truth about her past catching up with her, Katrine must try to explain the facts to her family. (from Netflix.com)

U.S. box office: $2,311
Watch the trailer on YouTube.

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Review of last week's film ("The Forgiveness of Blood," 4 stars)
Steve says: Director Joshua Marston tried to be as meticulous as possible in understanding the unwritten laws of Albania, ones that force the males of a family to hide when one of them is targeted for revenge. To outsiders, it is almost baffling. The film's themes focus on contrasts, of young and old, tradition and modern times, law and unwritten law, and more. It is an intriguing film.

September 17, 2014 - "The Forgiveness of Blood" (2011)

The Forgiveness of Blood, 2011
Director: Joshua Marston
Origin: USA | Albania | Denmark | Italy
Language: Albanian
Running time: 109 min

When an archaic code of justice confines 17-year-old Nik and the male members of his family to their home, his younger sister becomes the breadwinner. But the housebound Nik is so miserable that he's willing to risk his life to end the confinement. (from Netflix.com)

U.S. box office: $119,683
Watch the trailer on IMDB.

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Review of last week's film ("The Missing Picture", 3.5 stars)
Steven says: How does a director make a film about his life without archival footage? Rithy Panh creates a world from memory, populating it with miniature (and often haunting) figurines, while telling of his oppressed life under the Khmer Rouge in Cambodia in the mid-1970s. It's a mostly effective technique that pairs well with poetic observations of the director.

September 10, 2014 - "The Missing Picture" (2013)

The Missing Picture, 2013 (the first-ever documentary we've screened)

Director: Rithy Panh
Origin: Cambodia | France
Language: French
Running time: 92 min

In the film version of his harrowing memoir, director Rithy Panh uses ceramic figures to represent the Cambodian masses murdered in the 1970s. Panh's painful memories include the loss of his parents and sisters in one of history's darkest episodes. (from Netflix.com)

U.S. box office: $49,768
Watch the trailer on IMDB.

Background reading on the movie and it's central topic:

• Cambodian history refresher
• New York Times review, to give you an idea of what we'll be seeing

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Review of last week's film ("The Broken Circle Breakdown", 4 stars)
Steven says: I'm a sucker for bluegrass music, especially the harmonies. So when one of the near-final scenes, where the main characters sing on stage and reflect so well what's going on in their troubled lives, shows up, I'm totally behind the film. It is well put together, shaped additionally by bluegrass songs, and overall an engaging experience. (Warning: it is not a happy film.)

September 3, 2014 - "The Broken Circle Breakdown" (2012)

The Broken Circle Breakdown, 2012
Director: Felix Van Groeningen
Origin: Belgium | Netherlands
Languages: Flemish | English
Running time: 111 min

Elise is a tattoo artist and religiously devout, while Didier is an atheist banjo player in a bluegrass band, but the two fall instantly in love. Years later, when their daughter becomes ill, the crisis brings new challenges to their relationship. (from Netflix.com)

U.S. box office: $30,700
Watch the trailer on YouTube.

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Review of last week's film ("Like Father, Like Son", 5 stars)
Steven says: It is so easy to get lost in the story of a Kore-eda film. This one is no different. Great script, great acting, beautiful camera work, many touching scenes. What's not to like?

Announcing the Fall 2014 season

Cinematheque for All - Fall 2014

• The Fall 2014 Season is August 27 – December 17, 2014.
• All screenings for this season but one begin at 7 p.m. in Stanley Coulter Hall, Room 239, 640 Oval Drive, on the Purdue University campus (the Sept. 3 screening starts at 7:30 p.m.)
• Parking is available in the University Street parking garage.

Screenings

• Wednesday, August 27, 2014, Like Father, Like Son, 2013; Director: Hirokazu Koreeda; Origin: Japan; Language(s): Japanese; Running time: 121 minutes
• Wednesday, September 3, 2014, The Broken Circle Breakdown, 2012; Director: Felix Van Groeningen; Origin:  Belgium | Netherlands; Language(s): Flemish | English; Running time: 111 min (Film starts at 7:30 p.m.)
• Wednesday, September 10, 2014, The Missing Picture, 2013; Director: Rithy Panh; Origin: Cambodia | France; Language(s): French; Running time: 92 min
• Wednesday, September 17, 2014, The Forgiveness of Blood, 2011; Director: Joshua Marston; Origin: USA | Albania | Denmark | Italy; Language(s): Albanian; Running time: 109 min
• Wednesday, September 24, 2014, Two Lives, 2012; Director: Georg Maas; Origin: Germany | Norway; Language(s): German | Norwegian | English | Russian | Danish; Running time: 97 min
• Wednesday, October 1, 2014, The Matchmaker, 2010; Director: Avi Nesher; Origin: Israel; Language(s): Hebrew; Running time: 121 minutes
• Wednesday, October 8, 2014, Sister, 2012; Director: Ursula Meier; Origin: France | Switzerland; Language(s): French | English; Running time: 97 min
• Wednesday, October 15, 2014: NO FILM - YO-YO Ma                   
• Wednesday, October 22, 2014, Black Butterflies, 2011; Director: Paula van der Oest; Origin: Germany | Netherlands | South Africa; Language(s): English; Running time: 100 min
• Wednesday, October 29, 2014, When Father Was Away on Business, 1985; Director: Emir Kusturica; Origin: Yugoslavia; Language(s): Serbian | Hungarian; Running time: 136 min
• Wednesday, November 5, 2014, Take Out, 2004; Director: Sean Baker, Shih-Ching Tsou; Origin: USA; Language(s): English | Mandarin | Spanish; Running time: 87 min
• Wednesday, November 12, 2014, Half of a Yellow Sun, 2013; Director: Biyi Bandele; Origin: Nigeria | UK; Language(s): English; Running time: 111 min
• Wednesday, November 19, 2014, In a World . . ., 2013; Director: Lake Bell; Origin: USA; Language(s): English; Running time: 93 min
• Wednesday, November 26, 2014, NO FILM- Thanksgiving                   
• Wednesday, December 3, 2014, Omar, 2013; Director: Hany Abu-Assad; Origin: Palestine; Language(s): Arabic | Hebrew; Running time: 96 min
• Wednesday, December 10, 2014, Night Across the Street, 2012; Director: Raoul Ruiz; Origin: Chile | France; Language(s): Spanish | French; Running time: 110 min
• Wednesday, December 17, 2014, Restless City, 2011; Director: Andrew Dosunmu; Origin: USA; Language(s): English | French | Wolof | Yoruba; Running time: 80 min

August 27, 2014 - "Like Father, Like Son" (2013)

Like Father, Like Son, 2013
Director: Hirokazu Koreeda
Origin: Japan
Language: Japanese
Running time: 121 minutes

When successful businessman Ryota Nonomiya learns that his 6-year-old son was switched at birth with another child, he and his wife must decide whether to seek out their biological son or choose the boy they've been raising. (from Netflix.com)

U.S. box office: $278,442
Watch the trailer on IMDB.

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Review of previous film ("Fill the Void", 4 stars)
Steven says: This is a beautiful film that shines a bright light on an orthodox Jewish community, its traditions, and its reaction to a tragic event. You'll learn a lot about this religious community from the inside. And you'll wonder how someone can make such difficult and dutiful decisions.

August 13, 2014 - "Fill the Void" (2012)

Fill the Void, 2012
Director: Rama Burshtein
Origin: Israel
Language: Hebrew
Running time: 90 min

Eighteen-year-old Shira is thrilled that the marriage arranged for her within her Orthodox Jewish community is with a boy she likes. But when her sister dies in childbirth, Shira's hopes for her future are thrown into turmoil by her grieving mother. (from Netflix.com)

MPAA rating: Rated PG for mild thematic elements and brief smoking
U.S. box office: $1,774,639
Watch the trailer on IMDB.

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Review of last week's film ("The Past", 4 stars)
Steven says: Asghar Farhadi has mastered films that tell realistic and deliberate stories. He understands that life is complicated, and none of his characters in "The Past" is spared chaos or mistrust. He does a wonderful job of incorporating the set into the story line, reflecting emotions and realities among inanimate objects. I can't wait to see what he does next.

August 6, 2014 - "The Past" (2013)

The Past, 2013
Director: Asghar Farhadi
Origin: France | Italy
Languages: French | Persian
Running time: 130 min

When Iranian Ahmad returns to France after a four-year separation from his French wife, Marie, he discovers that she now has a boyfriend -- and that behind her difficult relationship with their daughter lies a secret from the past. (from Netflix.com)

MPAA rating: Rated PG-13 for mature thematic material and brief strong language
U.S. box office: $1,330,596
Watch the trailer on IMDB.

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Review of last week's film ("Mother of George", 4 stars)
Steven says: This is a a very visually appealing film backed by a script full of hard choices and consequences. A Nigerian immigrant family finds deceit and discord as they try to mesh their culture with American culture and medical system.

July 30, 2014 - "Mother of George" (2013)

Mother of George, 2013
Director: Andrew Dosunmu
Origin: Nigeria | USA
Languages: English | Yoruba
Running time: 107 min

Nigerian-Americans Ayodele and Adenike marry and perform a traditional ceremony in which Adenike confirms the name of the son she will one day bear. But the stress of adjusting to life in America and the pressure to conceive soon take their toll. (from Netflix.com)

MPAA rating: Rated R for sexuality, some language and a disturbing image
U.S. box office: $145,400
Watch the trailer on IMDB .

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Review of last week's film (The Patience Stone, 4 stars)
Steven says: The premise is simple, but the stories we hear are anything but. In a war-torn country, a woman takes care of her comatose husband. While doing so, she eventually tells him how she really feels about their life, she confides secrets, and she shares dalliances. It is yet another reminder of the societal role of women in other cultures.

July 23, 2014 - "The Patience Stone" (2013)

The Patience Stone, 2013
Director: Atiq Rahimi
Origin: Afghanistan | France | Germany | UK
Language: Persian
Running time: 102 min

Atiq Rahimi adapts his award-winning novel into an arresting allegorical tale about the trials of a modern-day Muslim woman living in an unspecified Middle Eastern nation, whose very existence is awash in conflict. (from Netflix.com)

MPAA rating: Rated R for sexual content, some violence and language
U.S. box office: $148,408
Watch the trailer on IMDB.

July 16, 2014 - "War Witch" (2014)

War Witch, 2012
Director: Kim Nguyen
Origin: Canada
Languages: French | Lingala
Running time: 90 min

In sub-Saharan Africa, 12-year-old Komona is kidnapped by rebel soldiers who force her to kill her parents and join their ranks. Over the next two years, Komona clings to life despite her horrific experiences and tries to pacify her parents' ghosts. (from Netflix.com)

U.S. box office: $37,902
Watch the trailer on IMDB.

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Review of last week's film ("The Rocket", 3 stars)
Steven says: So many political and social issues are combined to formulate the plot of this otherwise simple story film. It entertains, and it provides some interesting insights into life in Laos. Watch it with that in mind.

July 9, 2014 - "The Rocket" (2013)

The Rocket, 2013
Director: Kim Mordaunt
Origin: Australia | Thailand | Laos
Language: Lao
Running time: 96 min

Determined to disprove the common belief that he brings bad luck to everyone around him, outcast Laotian boy Ahlo builds a giant rocket with the intention of participating in the lucrative but dangerous competition at a rocket festival. (from Netflix.com)

Watch the trailer on IMDB.

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Review of last week's film (Wadjda, 4 stars)
Steven says: "Wadjda" is a straightforward story that forces viewers to examine the place of women in Saudi Arabian culture. With the education system as a backdrop, the title character confronts societal expectations and rules with her own outlook on life and what is means to be happy.

July 2, 2014 - "Wadjda" (2012)

Wadjda, 2012
Director: Haifaa Al-Mansour
Origin: Saudi Arabia | Germany
Language: Arabic
Running time: 98 min

Persistent 10-year-old Wadjda would like nothing more than a new bicycle so she can beat her friend (a boy) in a race. But it's going to take some ingenuity to get one -- especially in her culture, which sees bikes as a threat to a girl's virtue. (from Netflix.com)

MPAA rating: Rated PG for thematic elements, brief mild language and smoking   
U.S. box office: $1,347,578

Watch the video on IMDB.

June 25, 2014 - "Teddy Bear" (2012)

Teddy Bear, 2012
Director: Mads Matthiesen
Origin: Denmark
Languages: Danish | Thai | English
Running time: 92 min

Physically massive but shy and socially inept, a 38-year-old Danish bodybuilder longs to fall in love -- but finds it impossible under the disapproving eye of his mother. Traveling to Thailand, he learns some unexpected lessons about life and love. (from Netflix.com)

U.S. box office: $16,135
Watch the trailer on YouTube.
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Review of last week's film ("A Touch of Sin", 3.5 stars)
Steven says: At once baffling and enticing, this film explores four characters who are pushed beyond their limits. Violence ensues for each, but in varying degrees and outcomes. Interesting animal symbolism and a somewhat scathing assessment of Chinese life will keep viewers pondering this film for awhile.
Read Film Comment's take on the film and its director

June 11, 2014 - "A Touch of Sin" ("2013")

A Touch of Sin, 2013
Director: Zhang Ke Jia
Origin: China
Languages: Mandarin | Cantonese | English
Running time: 133 min

Weaving together four stories of people living in different Chinese provinces, this drama follows a miner protesting corruption, a migrant worker with a gun, a factory drone always drifting to a new job and a receptionist who's been assaulted. (from Netflix.com)

U.S. box office: $91,714
Watch the trailer on YouTube.

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Review of last week's film ("Gloria", 4 stars)Steven says: "Gloria" is an honest portrayal of a divorced woman navigating life and the dating scene 13 years after her first marriage ended. The film keeps an undercurrent focused on issues faced by parents of adult children, but the main story line prominently displays one woman's efforts to find fulfillment and stay true to herself.

June 4, 2014 - "Gloria" (2012)

Gloria, 2012
Director: Sebastián Lelio
Origin: Chile | Spain
Languages: Spanish | English
Running time: 110 min

A middle-aged divorcée looking to fill the void in her life sees an opportunity for a permanent relationship when she meets a charming former naval officer. But baggage from the past may derail their romance. (from Netflix.com)

MPAA rating: Rated R for sexual content, some graphic nudity, drug use and language
U.S. box office: $2,106,556

Watch the trailer on IMDB.

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Review of last week's film ("Zaytoun", 3 stars)
Steven says: One can never have enough reminders: people who are taught to hate each other can find common ground when see each other as people. Director Eran Riklis uses this theme often, and while it comes across as contrived in places in "Zaytoun", it still proves a powerful message.

May 28, 2014 - "Zaytoun" (2012)

Zaytoun, 2012
Director: Eran Riklis
Origin: UK | Israel | France
Languages: English | Arabic | Hebrew
Running time: 110 min

In 1982 Beirut, an Israeli fighter pilot named Yoni crashes outside a camp of young Palestinian refugees, where he's met by gun-toting orphan Fahed. In exchange for his freedom, Yoni agrees to take the boy back to the village where his parents lived. (from Netflix.com)

U.S. box office: $42,286
Watch the trailer on IMDB.
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Review of last week's film ("The Great Beauty", 4 stars)
Steven says: Reminiscent of Fellini's ("8 1/2"), this love letter to Rome juxtaposes the city's rich cultural history with the vapid nature of Italy's high society. From poverty to opulence, and from love to friendship, it touches on many life experiences through the eyes of an aging socialite. It leaves the viewer with many ideas to ponder.

Announcing the Summer 2014 season

Cinematheque for All – Summer 2014

• The Summer 2014 Season is May 21 – August 13, 2014.
• All screenings for this season begin at 7 p.m. in Stanley Coulter Hall, Room 239, 640 Oval Drive, on the Purdue University campus.
• Parking is available in the University Street parking garage.

Screenings

• Wednesday, May 21, 2014, The Great Beauty, 2013, Origin: Italy, Language(s): Italian; Run time: 143 min
• Wednesday, May 28, 2014, Zaytoun, 2012; Origin: UK | Israel | France, Language(s): English | Arabic | Hebrew; Run time: 110 min
• Wednesday, June 4, 2014, Gloria, 2012; Origin: Chile | Spain, Language(s): Spanish | English; Run time: 110 min
• Wednesday, June 11, 2014, A Touch of Sin, 2013; Origin: China, Language(s): Mandarin | Cantonese | English; Run time: 133 min
• Wednesday, June 18, 2014, NO SCREENING               
• Wednesday, June 25, 2014, Teddy Bear, 2012; Origin: Denmark, Language(s): Danish | Thai | English; Run time: 92 min
• Wednesday, July 2, 2014, Wadjda, 2012; Origin: Saudi Arabia | Germany, Language(s): Arabic; Run time: 98 min
• Wednesday, July 9, 2014, The Rocket, 2013; Origin: Australia | Thailand | Laos, Language(s): Lao; Run time: 96 min
• Wednesday, July 16, 2014, War Witch, 2012; Origin: Canada, Language(s): French | Lingala; Run time: 90 min
• Wednesday, July 23, 2014, The Patience Stone, 2013; Origin: Afghanistan | France | Germany | UK, Language(s): Persian; Run time: 102 min
• Wednesday, July 30, 2014, Mother of George, 2013; Origin: Nigeria | USA, Language(s): English | Yoruba; Run time: 107 min
• Wednesday, August 6, 2014, The Past, 2013; Origin: France | Italy, Language(s): French | Persian; Run time: 130 min
• Wednesday, August 13, 2014, Fill the Void, 2012; Origin: Israel, Language(s): Hebrew; Run time: 90 min

May 21, 2014 - "The Great Beauty" (2013)

The Great Beauty, 2013
This is the first film of the Summer 2014 season. More information is forthcoming about the line-up. 
We will be in Stanley Coulter Hall, Room 239 at 7 p.m.

Director: Paolo Sorrentino
Origin: Italy | France
Language: Italian
Running time: 142 minutes

As charming 65-year-old journalist Jep Gambardella writes about Rome's culture and social life, he reflects with bitterness on the passions of his lost youth, even as he paints a complex portrait of the lovely and ancient city. (from Netflix.com)

U.S. box office: $2,835,886
Watch the trailer on IMDB

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Review of last week's (May 7) film (What Maisie Knew, 3.5 stars)
Steven says: Turmoil seems so normal to Maisie, it almost doesn't faze her. Until she finds out what life could be like without it. It's amazing that a 100-year-old story can translate almost effortlessly to the present -- and not a little scary.

May 7, 2014 - "What Maisie Knew" (2013)

What Maisie Knew, 2013
Directors: Scott McGehee, David Siegel
Origin: USA
Language: English
Running time: 93 min

In this updated rendering of the timeless Henry James novel, a perceptive 6-year-old girl becomes a bargaining tool when she gets caught in the midst of a toxic custody fight between her self-seeking, childish parents.(from Netflix.com)

MPAA rating: Rated R for some language
U.S. box office: $1,065,000
Watch the trailer on IMDB.

April 30, 2014 - "Barbara" (2012)

Barbara, 2012
Director: Christian Petzold
Origin: Germany
Language: German
Running time: 105 min

In 1980 East Germany, Barbara, a doctor, is reassigned to a small rural hospital as punishment for trying to find work in the West. Biding time until her lover can help her defect, Barbara begins to suspect that her new boss knows of her plans. (from Netflix.com)

Winner of the 2012 Silver Bear for Best Director at the Berlin Film Festival.




MPAA rating: Rated PG-13 for some sexual material, thematic elements and smoking
Watch the trailer on YouTube.

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Review of last week's film ("Computer Chess", three stars)
Steven says: Film Comment says this about the film: "a series of touchingly rhapsodic variations on communion and aloneness, desire and repression, control and chaos." That may be true. It is also one strange film that leaves the viewer questioning seemingly random scenes and wondering if the filmmaker was trying to make a deeper, philosophical film. It's a good exploration of what's important to people, and it definitely will lead to interesting discussions.

April 23, 2013 - "Computer Chess" (2013)

Computer Chess, 2013
Director: Andrew Bujalski
Origin: USA
Language: English
Running time: 92 min

This comedic period piece set before PCs became commonplace centers on a 1980s chess tournament in which human competitors get their first crack at testing their skills against a machine. (from Netflix.com)

U.S. box office: $101,218
Watch the trailer on IMDB.

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Review of last week's film ("Applause", three stars)
Steven says: Paprika Steen does a nice job of handling the character of Thea, from onstage "Martha" to rock-bottom alcoholic to manipulative ex-wife. Recovery is never easy, and family estrangement can only make it harder.I wanted Thea to redeem herself, but by the end I realized it may not be possible.

April 16, 2014 - "Applause" (2009)

Applause, 2009
Director: Martin Zandvliet
Origin: Denmark
Language: Danish
Running time: 85 min

After a long stint in rehab, legendary actress Thea Barfoed seeks to reconnect with her two young sons in this drama from Denmark. Now, the headstrong Thea must prove to her ex-husband, Christian -- and to herself -- that she's truly reformed. (from Netflix.com)

MPAA rating: Rated R for language
Watch the trailer on IMDB.

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Review of last week's film (Blancanieves, 5 stars)
Steven says: Blancanieves is unexpected and enchanting. This beautifully rendered black and white film makes you listen to the music, see the entire screen and feel the impact of great cinematography. Who needs dialogue when the visuals tell the story so well? A creative treat.

April 9, 2014 - "Blancanieves" (2012)

Blancanieves, 2012
Director: Pablo Berger
Origin: Spain | France | Belgium
Language: Spanish
Running time: 104 min

Shot in black and white and without dialogue, this unusual take on "Snow White" follows the young daughter of a matador who finds fame after escaping the clutches of her evil stepmother to join a band of bullfighting dwarves. (from Netflix.com)

MPAA rating: Rated PG-13 for some violent content and sexuality
U.S. box office: $218,845
Watch the trailer on IMDB.

April 2, 2014 - "The Kings of Summer" (2013)

The Kings of Summer, 2013
Director: Jordan Vogt-Roberts
Origin: USA
Language: English
Running time: 95 min

Chafing under his widowed father's control, Joe Toy invites a friend and an offbeat new kid to help him build his own house in the nearby woods. Now that the trio is finally free from parents and responsibility, what's next? (from Netflix.com)

MPAA rating: Rated R for language and some teen drinking
U.S. box office: $1,290,312
Watch the trailer on IMDB.

March 12, 2014 - "A Simple Life" (2011)

A Simple Life, 2011

Director: Ann Hui
Origin: Hong Kong
Languages: Cantonese | English | Mandarin
Running time: 118 min

After working for the Leung family for decades, a servant still takes care of filmmaker Roger Leung -- but when she falls sick, the tables are turned as Roger looks after her in this heartwarming tale inspired by a true story. (from Netflix.com)

Watch the trailer on YouTube.

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Review of last week's film (Broken, 4 stars)
Steve says: Don't let the trailer fool you. This seemingly innocent film quickly sucks you in and then puts your emotions through the wringer. Artfully pieced together, "Broken" explores three very different families and how they deal (or not) with adversities. You'll root for Eloise Laurence as Skunk from start to finish.

March 5, 2014 - "Broken" (2012)

Netflix surprised us and sent us the March 12 film for March 5.

So, on March 5, we will watch "Broken", from 2012.

Director: Rufus Norris
Origin: UK
Language: English
Running time: 91 min

In this poignant coming-of-age tale, Skunk, a precocious and diabetic 11-year-old, lives happily with her brother and widower father in a suburban English neighborhood until an act of violence initiates her into the often-baffling world of adulthood. (from Netflix.com)

Watch the trailer on IMDB.

March 5, 2014 - "A Simple Life" (2011)

A Simple Life, 2011

Director: Ann Hui
Origin: Hong Kong
Languages: Cantonese | English | Mandarin
Running time: 118 min

After working for the Leung family for decades, a servant still takes care of filmmaker Roger Leung -- but when she falls sick, the tables are turned as Roger looks after her in this heartwarming tale inspired by a true story. (from Netflix.com)

Watch the trailer on YouTube.

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Review of last week's film (Hannah Arendt, 4 stars)
Steve says: Don't watch this by yourself. Watch it with a group of friends and then discuss the philosophy of the "banality of evil" afterward. The movie is a good history lesson, a good philosophy lesson, and a reminder of our constant need for vigilance. Favorite line: "To try to understand is not the same thing as forgiveness."

February 26, 2014 - "Hannah Arendt" (2012)

There is no screening on Wednesday, February 19.


Wednesday, February 26, 2014

Hannah Arendt, 2012
Director: Margarethe von Trotta
Origin: Germany | Luxembourg | France
Languages: German | French | English | Hebrew | Latin
Running time: 113 min

After fleeing Nazi Germany for the United States, a Jewish-German philosopher accepts an assignment from the New Yorker to cover the trial of an infamous war criminal, resulting in an article that ignites controversy all over the world. (from Netflix.com)

U.S. box office: $714,442
Watch the trailer on IMDB.

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Review of the Feb. 12 film (Moscow, Belgium -- stars)
Steven says: Life is messy, and "normal" is something everyone wants but rarely gets. No one knows that more than Matty, the main character of Moscow, Belgium (instead of the Belgian title -- Collision in Belgium -- which is way better). She's been living her life according to a 20-year-old dream and ends up unhappy because of it. The characters and situations are real and complicated, which make for a strong plot and a more convincing story.

February 12, 2014 - "Moscow, Belgium" (2008)

We searched for something a little lighthearted and romantic for our pre-Valentine's Day showing. We hope this fits the bill . . .

Moscow, Belgium, 2008
Director: Christophe Van Rompaey
Origin: Belgium
Languages: Flemish | Dutch
Running time: 102 min

After a fateful fender bender brings them together, Matty, a middle-aged mother of three with a wandering husband, decides to take a chance on Johnny, a handsome 29-year-old who falls for her. (Netfix.com)

Watch the trailer on IMDB.

Feb. 5 Screening Cancelled

Purdue officials announced that all university operations and classes for the remainder of Wednesday (Feb. 5) have been suspended and non-essential personnel are not required to report for campus duty.

Following suit, we are canceling tonight's screening of "Museum Hours" for Cinematheque for All. We will likely screen it during the Summer 2014 season so that we can remain on schedule for the remainder of the Spring 2014 season.

Stay safe and warm everyone.

Steve

February 5, 2014 - "Museum Hours" (2012)

Museum Hours, 2012
Director: Jem Cohen
Origin: Austria | USA
Languages: German | English
Running time: 107 min

When Anne arrives in Vienna to visit an ailing relative, she takes refuge in the Kunsthistorisches Museum and befriends Johann, a guard. Director Jem Cohen blends fiction and documentary in this meditation on how art and the world shape each other. (from Netflix.com)

U.S. box office: $83,725
Watch the trailer on IMDB.

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Review of last week's film (The Makioka Sisters, 3 stars)
Steven says: Comparisons to Jane Austen stories or Downton Abbey are not far off for this 1983 Japanese melodrama. Appearances are everything to this family, though the changing cultural (and war) landscape in 1938 helps them see things from a different perspective.

January 29, 2014 - "The Makioka Sisters" (1983)

The Makioka Sisters, 1983

Director: Kon Ichikawa
Origin: Japan
Language: Japanese
Running time: 140 min

Internationally acclaimed filmmaker Kon Ichikawa's epic is set in the 1930s and centers on four privileged sisters from Osaka, Japan, whose war-torn, enmeshed lives intersect as they seek both traditional and modern marriages. Based on Junichiro Tanizaki's novel of the same name, Ichikawa's tale, which unfolds against a lavish background of wealth and cultural customs, stars Keiko Kishi, Yoshiko Sakuma, Sayuri Yoshinaga and Yûko Kotegawa. (from Netflix.com)

Watch the trailer on YouTube.

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Review of last week's film ("The Hunt" 4 stars)
Steven says: From the mouths of babes come cuteness and, in this film, debilitating accusations. It's hard to fathom how quickly someone's existence can implode when faced with damning testimony, no matter how erroneous. And it's even worse to know that life can never really go back to normal. The tribal nature of humans can be comforting in times of need; it can also be be scary when it clicks into protection mode.

On with the show (Jan. 22, 2014)

Tuesday was a sad day at Purdue. Different people and groups will respond to the campus shooting in different ways.

Despite the cancellation of Wednesday classes, Karrie and I have decided to move forward with our regularly scheduled screening Wednesday evening. It is one small way we feel we can foster community and feel like there is some normalcy in the world.

We understand if you choose to stay away from campus. If you do, "The Hunt" is available from Netflix for both DVD and online streaming customers.

If you choose to join us in Forney B124, we'll welcome you warmly and share our love of film with you starting at 7:10 p.m.

January 22, 2014 - "The Hunt" (2012)

The Hunt, 2012
Director: Thomas Vinterberg
Origin: Denmark | Sweden
Languages: Danish | English | Polish
Running time: 115 min

Lucas is rebuilding his life after a bitter divorce: He has a new job and a girlfriend, and is working on his relationship with his teenage son. But an unfounded accusation of pedophilia changes everything as his community turns against him. (from Netflix.com)

MPAA rating: Rated R for sexual content including a graphic image, violence and language
U.S. box office: $610,968

Watch the trailer on IMDB.

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Review of last week's film (Frances Ha, 3.5 stars)
Steven says: When is it time to grow up? How does growing up affect really close friendships? Frances Ha answers these questions for its title character, providing a plethora of entertaining scenes, touching observations, and fairly real glimpses into the lives of today's 20-somethings. The black-and-white presentation enhances the film's artsy-yet-approachable feel.

January 15, 2014 - "Frances Ha" (2012)

Frances Ha, 2012
Director: Noah Baumbach
Origin: USA
Language: English
Running time: 86 min

Determined to make it as a modern dancer in New York, Frances pursues her unlikely goal with more enthusiasm than natural talent. The rest of the time, she and her sardonic best friend, Sophie, put off growing up for as long as they can. (from Netflix.com)

MPAA rating: Rated R for sexual references and language
U.S. box office: $4,063,238
Watch the trailer on IMDB.

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Review of last week's film ("Kon-Tiki", 3.5 stars)
Steven says: With faith, science, and sheer will, the Kon-Tiki team floated 5,000 miles to prove it was possible for Peruvians to settle Polynesia. The story set-up is fast and so is the viewer's heart rate after several close calls. The film serves as a great reminder of the historic voyage and should help others investigate the full story for the first time. The film maker tried to pack so much into the film that there are some lose ends, suggesting small story lines could have been deleted without hurting the film.

January 8, 2014 - "Kon-Tiki" (2012)

Kon-Tiki, 2012
Directors: Joachim Rønning, Espen Sandberg
Origin: UK | Norway | Denmark | Germany | Sweden
Languages: Norwegian | English | French | Swedish
Running time: 118 min

With five loyal friends in tow, explorer Thor Heyerdal sails a fragile balsa wood raft along an ancient path some 4,300 miles across the Pacific. Along the way, they're attacked by tidal waves, sharks and all the dangers the ocean can muster. (from Netflix.com)

MPAA rating: Rated PG-13 for a disturbing violent sequence
U.S. box office: $1,511,798
Watch the trailer on IMDB.

Announcing the Winter 2014 season

Cinematheque for All – Winter 2014

The Winter 2014 Season is January 8 – May 7, 2014.

All screenings for this season begin at 7:10 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 8, 2014, Kon-Tiki, 2012; Director: Joachim Rønning, Espen Sandberg; Origin: UK | Norway | Denmark | Germany | Sweden; Language(s): Norwegian | English | French | Swedish; Running time: 118 min
• Wednesday, January 15, 2014, Frances Ha, 2012; Director: Noah Baumbach; Origin: USA; Language(s): English; Running time: 86 min
• Wednesday, January 22, 2014, The Hunt, 2012; Director: Thomas Vinterberg; Origin: Denmark | Sweden; Language(s): Danish | English | Polish; Running time: 115 min
• Wednesday, January 29, 2014, The Makioka Sisters, 1983; Director: Kon Ichikawa; Origin: Japan; Language(s): Japanese; Running time: 140 min
• Wednesday, February 5, 2014, Museum Hours, 2012; Director: Jem Cohen; Origin: Austria | USA; Language(s): German | English; Running time: 107 min
• Wednesday, February 12, 2014, Moscow, Belgium, 2008; Director: Christophe Van Rompaey; Origin: Belgium; Language(s): Flemish | Dutch; Running time: 102 min
• Wednesday, February 19, 2014, FREE
• Wednesday, February 26, 2014, Hannah Arendt, 2012; Director: Margarethe von Trotta; Origin: Germany | Luxembourg | France; Language(s): German | French | English | Hebrew | Latin; Running time: 113 min
• Wednesday, March 5, 2014, A Simple Life, 2011; Director: Ann Hui; Origin: Hong Kong; Language(s): Cantonese | English | Mandarin; Running time: 118 min
• Wednesday, March 12, 2014, Broken, 2012; Director: Rufus Norris; Origin: UK; Language(s): English; Running time: 91 min
• Wednesday, March 19, 2014, FREE
• Wednesday, March 26, 2014, FREE
• Wednesday, April 2, 2014, The Kings of Summer, 2013; Director: Jordan Vogt-Roberts; Origin: USA; Language(s): English; Running time: 95 min
• Wednesday, April 9, 2014, Blancanieves, 2012; Director: Pablo Berger; Origin: Spain | France | Belgium; Language(s): Spanish; Running time: 104 min
• Wednesday, April 16, 2014, Applause, 2009; Director: Martin Zandvliet; Origin: Denmark; Language(s): Danish; Running time: 85 min
• Wednesday, April 23, 2014, Computer Chess, 2013; Director: Andrew Bujalski; Origin: USA; Language(s): English; Running time: 92 min
• Wednesday, April 30, 2014, Barbara, 2012; Director: Christian Petzold; Origin: Germany; Language(s): German; Running time: 105 min
• Wednesday, May 7, 2014, What Maisie Knew, 2013; Director: Scott McGehee, David Siegel; Origin: USA; Language(s): English; Running time: 93 min