World Literature Film Series:Screening dates
All films in Waggener 101 (which is cold--wear layers) (And hardwood seating--bring
a cushion)
| Ridicule (for Candide,
Sunday, 1-31). This film is a good compliment to Voltaire in that it shows the kind of disconnectedness of the nobility from the world of their subjects, the kind of precious “wit” that is used to thrive in court, and the kind of “let them eat” cake philosophy that drove the court at Versailles. (Another recommendation might be Amazing Grace, a film by Michael Apted that features Olaudah Equiano as a character, involved in the abolitionist movement in Great Britain). Sunday, January 31. From 4-6 |
| Bright Star (for Keats,
Sunday, 2-14) This is a biopic of John Keats’ young life, centered around his romance with Fanny Brawne. Newly released on DVD, this Jane Campion film was very well reviewed in the theaters. A love story to kick off your Valentine’s Day. Sunday, February 14. From 12-2 |
| Teen Kanya (Two Daughters)
(Sunday. March 7) For international film, the South Asian filmmaker Satyajit Ray ranks with Akira Kurosawa as eminent directors. As a fellow Bengali, Ray is inspired by Tagore’s work. Both Tagore stories we read—“The Postmaster” and “The Conclusion”—are given a film treatment in this collection. Sunday, March 7. From 3-5 |
| A Doll’s House
(Sunday, March 14) This influential play has been adapted for film on more than a few occasions. I am tempted to use three versions—one for each act, and show how different directors, set and costume designers, and sets of actors have envisioned the play. (In the three, Nora is played by Claire Bloom, Jane Fonda, and Juliet Stevenson). Sunday, March 14. From Noon-2:30 |
| The Last Station (Saturday,
April 3) Another biopic, this one centered on the last days of Tolstoy. Christopher Plummer and Helen Mirren star as Tolstoy and his wife, and the film also features James McAvoy and Paul Giomatti. Another newly released DVD which received great reviews when it debuted in theaters. Saturday, April 3. From 4-6 |
| Nowhere in Africa (Sunday,
April 25) Not related to our texts directly, this film about the cultural differences of Europeans and Africans is exceptionally good—nuanced, dramatic, historically interesting. While it does portray Africa from primarily a European perspective, there are outstanding roles for black actors. Sunday, April 25. From 7-9:30 |