ARTSIES:
Oscar-nominated Short Films: Animated and Live-Action – not screened
This year’s crop of Academy Award-nominated short films are a surprisingly somber, even sad bunch. Don’t let that dissuade you. That doesn’t meant they aren’t good. There are several excellent shorts in both the live-action and animated categories. But none are exactly a laugh riot. They needn’t be, of course. Just something to know going in. As ever, the films show how much power a short film can pack into a small package. In this case bigotry, social engineering, a real-life tragedy and the politics of black women’s hair are just some of the subjects showcased in the films.
Created Equal: Clarence Thomas in His Own Words – not screened
Although Clarence Thomas remains a controversial figure, loved by some, reviled by others, few know much more than a few headlines and the recollections of his contentious confirmation battle with Anita Hill. With unprecedented access, the producers interviewed Justice Clarence Thomas and his wife, Virginia, for over 30 hours of interview time, over many months. Justice Thomas tells his entire life’s story, looking directly at the camera, speaking frankly to the audience. After a brief introduction, the documentary proceeds chronologically, combining Justice Thomas’ first person account with a rich array of historical archive material, period and original music, personal photos, and evocative recreations. Read More
Director: Michael Pack
FARTSIES:
Gretel & Hansel – not screened
A long time ago in a distant fairytale countryside, a young girl (Sophia Lillis, It) leads her little brother (Sammy Leakey) into a dark wood in desperate search of food and work, only to stumble upon a nexus of terrifying evil. Read More
Director: Oz Perkins
Starring: Sophia Lillis, Alice Krige, Jessica De Gouw
The Rhythm Section – not screened
Blake Lively stars as Stephanie Patrick, an ordinary woman on a path of self-destruction after her family is tragically killed in a plane crash. When Stephanie discovers that the crash was not an accident, she enters a dark, complex world to seek revenge on those responsible and find her own redemption. Read More
Director: Reed Morano
Starring: Blake Lively, Jude Law, Sterling K. Brown
NEXT WEEK:
-Birds of Prey (and the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn)
-Invisible Life
