the cinematheque

Thanks to everyone who has been coming to the screenings. Umbrellas of Cherbourg was our best yet! I’m trying to come up with a way to seat more people since more guests show up each time. It really would be great to have an old theater of my own where I can show all the movies I want. I can just see the “Cinematheque” sign on that old, classic theater in downtown Santa Ana. I forget what it’s called, but they show Christian movies there now. Sigh.

Anyways, I’m trying to work on the winter schedule. Choosing a line up and a theme is much more difficult than I thought. I’m actually trying to watch more films to see if I can find the perfect winter film for December. It has to be special because it’s my birthday month too! Linda gave me two French films that I haven’t seen before, including Chabrol’s Les Biches (above), and I’ve been browsing the dvds at work to see if anything stands out.

Suggestions anyone? I have some films in mind, but I’m really stuck on a theme.

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November 16, 2008 · 9:40 pm

Staying Alive (a cautionary recommendation)

I’m in no way saying you should go out and rent Staying Alive, but I have to admit I just realized it has some of the best mise-en-scene I’ve seen in a film. I’m serious! I’m not talking about the sets for the embarrassing dance musicals that Tony, the hero of Saturday Night Fever, played by John Travolta, performs in either. (Especially the one in the end that’s supposed to be hell. Eeek!) I’m talking about the simple shots of New York. There’s a scene where Tony is walking on the Brooklyn Bridge at night in his classic, white disco suit with his gray boots. He’s sad, lonely, and pensive. The frame follows his legs, which contrast with the dark bridge, as a beautiful song from the Bee Gees* plays. It’s really sort of stunning.

Perhaps I’m giving the film more credit than it deserves, especially since Sylvester Stallone directed it, but if you’re in the mood for harmless fun, watch it! Trust me, even the most pretentious film snob will find Tony’s quest for the perfect dance role somewhat engaging. How can you not smile and/or crack up at the big dance sequence at the end?

*(Speaking of sexy music reminiscent of the Bee Gees, Sebastien Tellier is playing at the Music Box December 3. If any of my dear friends are wondering what to get me for my birthday, I’d sure like to go! I’m nice. I deserve it! Check out his outrageously sexy, new video. I love him.)

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October 22, 2008 · 4:36 am

Fall 2008: Young and in Love

Next film:

November 22, 2008

The Umbrellas of Cherbourg

Directed by Jacques Demy, 1964

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October 17, 2008 · 11:08 pm

Reality Bites

I don’t mean to get too personal, but Reality Bites, is so my life right now. Except for the whole love triangle, Lelaina’s life is pretty similar to mine. Lelaina, played by Winona Ryder, graduates from college, tries to find a good job, and has problems paying her bills. Oh, and she wants to find a real relationship with an emotionally mature guy and she likes diet coke.

Janeane Garofalo is funny as Lelaina’s crazy, best friend, Vickie. Ben Stiller, who also directed the film, has some of the best lines in the movie as one of Lelaina’s love interests, Michael, along with Ethan Hawke, Troy. The confrontation that erupts between Michael and Troy over Lelaina’s “doilie” dress is awkward and priceless.

P.S.,

There’s a cinematheque screening tomorrow!

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October 7, 2008 · 10:29 pm