As I bloviated in my previous blog, “I think most older people prefer movies with no animation, nothing supernatural, no sci-fi, no gorgeous costumes and scenery as a background for unspeakable violence, and no frat-boy humor unless it’s Will Ferrell. Plots are nice.”
“I’m as mad as hell, and I’m not going to take this anymore!” Peter Finch, Network
Almost two years ago, I met with Shirley Johnson, who with her husband, Willis Johnson, runs the Lake Theatre. They’re major contributors to this community. I was hoping to get a film club started for seniors, say at 11 in the morning. It didn’t work out. However, the Johnsons have recently received “many, many emails” requesting art specialty films.
Now seniors and everybody else will have a choice to see such films. The Lake Theatre has announced a First Tuesday Film Club. The first film Albert Nobbs, was scheduled twice on Tuesday, April 3 at 1 pm and 7 pm. It stars Glenn Close, who was nominated for an Academy Award for her role. She plays a woman who disguises herself as a man so she can get a job at an upscale Irish hotel. The plot thickens when she falls in love.
“Houston, we have a problem.” Tom Hanks, Apollo 13
I h=missed it earlier, precisely because I didn’t trek into the city to the Century. Not that I don’t go to the Century and the AMC River East and the Gene Siskel when I can, but it will be great to see a so-called art movie close to home.
“There’s no place like home.” Judy Garland, The Wizard of Oz
It’s not that the Lake never has offbeat films. I went to the Century to see the wonderful Brendan Gleeson in The Guard (he’s also in Albert Nobbs). And The Guard came to the Lake, but later. A few weeks ago The Lake ran Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy, but I didn’t go. I did go to see Salmon Fishing in the Yemen on opening day. Loved it.
Some people are bound to complain that the Lake should do the Film Club more than once a month. I’d love to see my favorite theatre, #3, with the red velvet seats, completely devoted to art films.
“Oh, Jerry, don’t let’s ask for the moon. We have the stars.” Bette Davis, Now, Voyager.
They’re going to give the Film Club a try for the next three months and then evaluate the results. So you better show up.
“You talkin’ to me?” Robert DeNiro, Taxi Driver
Although it’s called a club, there are no dues or fees – just the regular movie admission prices. And do have something to eat. Movie theatres make most of their money from concessions. I love the Lake’s popcorn.
The Lake has asked me to be on an advisory committee to help select future films. I’ve received a few suggestions, but feel free to add yours in the comments. I really hope the Film Club works. Everybody I’ve talked to loves the idea and we want it to be successful so I don’t have to go around muttering my all-time favorite movie scene:
“You don’t understand! I coulda had class. I coulda been a contender. I could’ve been somebody, instead of a bum, which is what I am.” Marlon Brando, On the Waterfront
Finally,
“Here’s looking at you, kid.” Humphrey Bogart, Casablanca