Film Club's Program

This Week

08/02 - LA LA LAND
(D., Chazelle, 2016)

People love what other people are passionatre about.

La La Land follows the captivating journey of Mia, an aspiring actress, and Sebastian, a jazz musician, as they navigate the complexities of love and dreams in modern-day Los Angeles. Their passionate romance intertwines with the pursuit of their artistic aspirations, leading to moments of joy, heartache, and ultimately self-discovery. Against the backdrop of vibrant musical numbers and breathtaking cinematography, Mia and Sebastian’s relationship is tested, highlighting the sacrifices and challenges inherent in following one’s passions.

2h 08min

08/02 - SOURCE CODE
(D., Jones, 2011)

Christina, what would you do if you knew you had less than one minute to live?

 

I’d make those seconds count.”

 

Source Code, directed by Duncan Jones, follows Captain Colter Stevens (Jake Gyllenhaal), who wakes up in another man’s body and discovers he’s part of a government experiment to prevent a terrorist attack. Tasked with reliving the last eight minutes on a train before it explodes, he must identify the bomber. As Stevens repeatedly jumps back, he unravels a complex web of mysteries, facing moral dilemmas and questioning reality. The film combines suspense, sci-fi elements, and emotional depth, keeping viewers engaged in this mind-bending thriller.

1h 31min

Coming Soon

TBC - PAST LIVES
(C., Song, 2023)

“You dream in a language I can’t understand. It’s like there’s this whole place inside you I can’t go.”

 

Celine Song’s “Past Lives” delves into the complexities of real relationships, highlighting moments that define their authenticity. It navigates the spectrum of emotions, from lingering glances to ceaseless conversations and the comforting routines of domesticity. Each subtle interaction becomes a potential spark for something deeper. The film beautifully explores the intricate nature of relationships, from childhood crushes to the supposed certainty of adulthood. It offers a nuanced narrative that encourages self-reflection while captivating the audience through two characters who vividly portray the profound impact of relationships, whether fully realized or in flux, on our lives.

1h 46min

TBC - IRRATIONAL MAN
(W. Allen, 2015)

“Anxiety is the dizziness of freedom.”

Woody Allen decides to follow philosophy professor Abe Lucas as he grapples with existential ennui until a chance encounter propels him into a morally ambiguous plan. Seeking meaning, he becomes involved in a fateful decision that blurs ethical boundaries. Allen weaves humor and intellectual intrigue, exploring the consequences of Abe’s actions on those around him. The film, set against the backdrop of academia, delves into the complexities of desire, morality, and the unpredictable nature of life, creating a thought-provoking and darkly comedic narrative.

1h 35min

TBC- ARRIVAL
(D. Villeneuve, 2016)

“If you could see your whole life from start to finish, would you change things?”

 

Denis VIlleneuve’s mind-bending sci-fi thriller  unravels the gripping tale of linguistic expert Louise Banks. When twelve extraterrestrial spacecrafts land on Earth, Louise is tasked with deciphering their language and intentions. As she immerses herself in this extraordinary task, she uncovers a mind-bending truth that challenges her perception of time and the boundaries of human understanding. With its stunning visuals, thought-provoking narrative, and emotional depth, Arrival takes audiences on an once-in-a-lifetime journey that explores the power of language, empathy, and the mysteries of the universe.

1h 56min

TBC - IN BRUGES
(M., McDonagh, 2008)

“You’ve got to stick to your principles.”

 

Martin McDonagh’s “In Bruges” follows hitmen Ray and Ken, hiding out in the picturesque Belgian city after a job goes awry. Ray grapples with guilt while Ken, a seasoned professional, contemplates their mysterious boss’s intentions. The medieval charm clashes with their dark predicament, leading to unexpected encounters and moral dilemmas. McDonagh’s blend of black comedy and poignant reflection navigates the fine line between redemption and retribution in this visually stunning and emotionally charged film.

1h 47min

Past Screenings

11/05 - KIMI
(S. Soderbergh, 2022)

“Why can’t things just be good? Why do they always have to be ‘the best’?”

 

KIMI is a mystery thriller film directed by Steven Soderbergh. The story follows an agoraphobic tech worker, played by Zoe Kravitz, who discovers evidence of a violent crime while monitoring the private lives of others through their devices. As she becomes obsessed with solving the case, her own secrets and past traumas are unearthed.

Will Angela manage to get the truth out or will she be silenced? Can people still win over technology, or have we become subject to it?
… Let’s find out by watching this nail-biting thriller together!

1h 30min

01/02 - LOGAN LUCKY
(S., Soderbergh, 2017)

“I am in – car – ce – ra – ted!

 

Logan Lucky, directed by Steven Soderbergh, follows the Logan brothers as they plan a heist during a NASCAR race. With a quirky crew and a clever scheme, they aim to reverse their family’s financial misfortune. The film blends humor, suspense, and a touch of Southern charm, delivering a unique take on the heist genre. As the Logans navigate their elaborate plan, unexpected twists and charismatic performances keep audiences on the edge of their seats, creating a thrilling and entertaining cinematic experience.

1h 58min

18/05 - BEFORE WE GO
(C. Evans, 2014)

“We love who we love. Sucks.”

 

This indie romance takes place in New York, where, on a cold and lonely night, two strangers who are too discouraged to believe in second chances randomly bump into each other. Nick, a street musician, tries to comfort Brooke after she misses her last train home. As he tries to take her to her destination, the two confide in each other and confront their long-held fears.

1h 29min

18/05 - CAPTAIN FANTASTIC
(M. Ross, 2016)

It’s a beautiful mistake. But a mistake.

 

An engaging and thought-provoking drama that follows the extraordinary journey of Ben Cash, an unconventional father raising his six children in the secluded wilderness of the Pacific Northwest. Imbued with deep intellectual and physical skills, the children are raised to reject societal norms and embrace self-reliance. However, when a family tragedy occurs, Ben and his children embark on a road trip that forces them to confront the outside world and its contrasting values.

The film explores the challenges of balancing idealism with reality, the complexities of family dynamics, and the quest for meaning and belonging in an ever-changing world.

1h 58min

24/05 - MATCH POINT
(W. Allen, 2005)

The man who said ‘I’d rather be lucky than good’ saw deeply into life.”

 

Match Point, a gripping thriller by Woody Allen, delves into the world of passion, desire, and moral dilemmas. Chris, a former tennis pro, finds himself entangled in a dangerous love affair with Nola, a seductive femme fatale. As their illicit relationship intensifies, Chris becomes consumed by his desire for her, leading to a series of choices that blur the lines between right and wrong. Set against the backdrop of London’s high society, the film explores themes of luck, fate, and the consequences of our actions.

With its taut plot and compelling performances, Allen’s thriller serves up a gripping psychological game that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.

2h 4min

25/05 - NIGHTCRAWLER
(D. Gilroy, 2016)

My motto is if you want to win the lottery you’ve got to make money to get a ticket.”

 

Dan Gilroy’s directorial debut is a fresh take on the complexities of the American dream and the many dark sides of capitalism. Acting as the ultimate prototype of the self-made man, Lou Bloom walks, or rather crawls and creeps through the darkest alleys of the TV news business to uncover its secrets and ruthlessly exploit anyone or anything that stands in his way.

 

How much of what we see on the news is actually true? And how many people profit from it? What are the moral dilemmas that come with profiting on other people’s tragedies?

 

25/06 - SIDE EFFECTS
(S. Soderbergh, 2013)

“Depression is an inability to construct a future.”

 

Side Effects is a gripping psychological thriller directed by Steven Soderbergh. The film delves into the perilous world of prescription medication and the dark secrets that lie beneath its surface. Emily, a young woman struggling with depression, seeks help from a psychiatrist who prescribes her a new drug. However, things soon take a dramatic turn.

 

Blurring the lines between reality and perception, Side Effects keeps audiences guessing until the very end. 

1h 46min

25/07 - PADDINGTON 2
(P. King, 2017)

I’ll never be like other people, but that’s all right because I’m a bear.

Paddington 2 is an endearing and heartwarming family film that follows the lovable Peruvian bear, Paddington, as he embarks on a delightful adventure in London. With his genuine charm and positive outlook on life, Paddington finds himself on a quest to spread joy and kindness. When he stumbles upon a unique pop-up book, he becomes determined to acquire it as a special gift for his beloved Aunt Lucy’s 100th birthday. However, things take an unexpected turn, leading to a thrilling caper full of humor, friendship, and life lessons. This delightful sequel promises to warm hearts and leave audiences with a smile 🙂

1h 44min

11/01 - PADDINGTON
(P. King, 2014)

“I’ll never be like other people, but that’s alright because I’m a bear!”

 

Paddington is a heartwarming family film that follows the adventures of a lovable bear from Peru who travels to London in search of a new home. Taken in by the kind Brown family, Paddington inadvertently brings chaos and joy to their lives. As he navigates the bustling city, his charm and innocence win over hearts, teaching the importance of acceptance and finding family in unexpected places. The film is a delightful blend of humor, warmth, and a bear’s quest for belonging in a big, unfamiliar world. 🐻

 

 

 

1h 35min

25/07 - SPIDER-MAN: INTO THE SPIDER-VERSE
(P. Ramsey et al., 2018)

It’s kind of nice not to be the only Spider-Person around.

 

Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse swings into action as an extraordinary animated superhero spectacle that defies all expectations. The film introduces us to Miles Morales, a Brooklyn teen who gets bitten by a radioactive spider, transforming him into the new Spider-Man. But this is just the beginning of a thrilling, multiverse-spanning adventure. As multiple dimensions collide, a diverse cast of Spider-People from different realities comes together, each with their own unique powers and personalities. With jaw-dropping animation, humor, and heart, the film delivers an exhilarating journey of self-discovery and heroism that will leave you webbed to your seat from start to finish.

1h 56min

05/10 - GET OUT
(J. Peele, 2017)

Do they know I’m… Do they know I’m black?”

Get Out is a 2017 horror-thriller film directed by Jordan Peele. The movie follows an African-American man who visits his white girlfriend’s family for the weekend, but strange occurrences make him realize that something more sinister is going on.

The film is a suspenseful exploration of racism and societal norms, and has been critically acclaimed for its unique blend of horror and social commentary.

1h 44min

25/01 - WHIPLASH
(D., Chazelle, 2014)

There are no two words in the English language more harmful than ‘good job’

 

In Damien Chazelle’s Whiplash, Andrew Neiman (Miles Teller) is an ambitious young drummer at a prestigious music conservatory. He comes under the intense mentorship of Terence Fletcher (J.K. Simmons), an uncompromising and abusive instructor. The film delves into the brutal world of music education, exploring the sacrifices and pressures one faces to achieve greatness. The dynamic between Neiman and Fletcher escalates into a gripping psychological battle, revealing the high stakes and emotional toll of pursuing excellence in the competitive realm of jazz drumming.

1h 47min

Later this year...

TBC - BEFORE SUNRISE
(R. Linklater, 1995)

Isn’t everything we do in life a way to be loved a little more?

 

Richard Linklater takes audiences on a mesmerizing journey through the streets of Vienna with this romantic cult. Jesse, an American traveler, and Céline, a French student, meet by chance on a train and decide to spend a magical night exploring the city together. As they wander through its enchanting streets, their deep conversations and genuine connection create an unforgettable bond. Against the backdrop of a fleeting encounter, the film beautifully captures the essence of young love, the transient nature of life, and the profound impact a single night can have on two souls.

Before Sunrise is a tender and evocative exploration of the power of human connection.

1h 41min

What should we watch next?

Share your film suggestions with us by sending an email at:

teacherchrisclass@gmail.com