CineVerse

File under fear, fate and film

2012-02-07T09:00:00.001-06:00

The Oak Lawn public library will present the following movie free of charge: The Adjustment Bureau (2011, PG-13, 106 min) -- Friday, Feb. 10 at 10 a.m. Academy Award nominee Matt Damon stars in this romantic thriller about a man who glimpses the future Fate has planned for him - and chooses to fight for his destiny with the only woman he’s ever loved. Starring Emily Blunt and Michael Kelly. Learn more by clicking here.

Next stop? El Norte

2012-02-05T09:00:00.000-06:00

You may never view the illegal immigration issue the same way again after seeing “El Norte” (1983; 141 minutes), directed by Gregory Nava, to be shown Feb. 8 at CineVerse.

A day of Dickens is no slim pickins

2012-02-03T09:00:00.000-06:00

The Oak Lawn public library will celebrate the 200th birthday of author Charles Dickens by presenting the following 3 movies free of charge:

Great Expectations (1946) -- Tuesday, Feb. 7 at 10 a.m. From the vivid pages of Charles Dickens' masterpiece, a humble orphan becomes a gentleman with the help of an unknown benefactor. Directed by David Lean; winner of two Academy Awards. Starring John Mills, Valerie Hobson and Tony Wager. Unrated. 118 min.
Nicholas Nickleby (2002) -- Tuesday, Feb. 7 at 2 p.m. A young, compassionate man struggles to save his family and friends from the abusive exploitation of his coldhearted uncle. Starring Charlie Hunnam, Jamie Bell, Christopher Plummer and Anne Hathaway. PG. 132 min.
Oliver Twist (2005) -- Tuesday, Feb. 7 at 6:30 p.m. Director Roman Polanski's adaptation of the classic Dickens tale where an orphan meets a pickpocket on the streets of London. From there, he joins a household of boys who are trained to steal for their master. Starring Barney Clark, Ben Kingsley and Jeremy Swift. PG-13. 130 min.

Learn more by clicking here.

Please Mr. Postman

2012-01-29T09:00:00.000-06:00

Valentine's Day may be a few weeks away, but it's never too early to play a naughty game of post office with Lana Turner and John Garfield. They're the stars of "The Postman Always Rings Twice" (1946; 113 minutes), directed by Tay Garnett, chosen by Kevin McAlinden, which is next up on the CineVerse calendar for Feb. 1.

Plus, we'll start the evening with a trailer reel spotlighting the career of actor John Garfield.

Move over Jonah--here comes the Squid and the Whale

2012-01-22T09:00:00.000-06:00

Dad may have told you about the birds and the bees, but he probably never breathed a word about “The Squid and the Whale" (2005; 81 minutes), which is scheduled for January 25 at CineVerse, directed by Noah Baumbach, chosen by Dave Ries.

Plus, join our group promptly a 7 p.m. to play a "How well do you know your fellow film fan" game prior to the movie.

I'm dreaming of a white baseball...

2012-01-21T09:00:00.000-06:00

The Oak Lawn public library will present the following movie free of charge: Moneyball (2011, PG-13, 133 min) -- Tuesday, Jan. 24 at 2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. The story of Oakland A’s general manager Billy Beane’s successful attempt to put together a baseball club on a budget by employing computer-generated analysis to draft his players. A movie for anyone who has ever dreamed of taking on the system. Starring Brad Pitt, Robin Wright, Jonah Hill and Philip Seymour Hoffman. Learn more by clicking here.

A closer look at Hitchcock's "Strangers on a Train"

2012-01-19T09:00:00.002-06:00

Yesterday, CineVerse screened and discussed Strangers on a Train, Alfred Hitchcock’s wonderfully twisted and disquieting rumination on man’s dual nature.

The film stars Farley Granger as Guy Haines, a tennis pro married to Miriam, a bespectacled floozy (portrayed by an underrated Kasey Rogers), and Robert Walker as the comically insidious Bruno Antony. Bruno meets Guy on a train trip and tries to convince the athlete into committing the perfect crime by swapping murders: Bruno will kill the adulterous Mrs. Haines (so that Guy can marry the senator’s beautiful daughter) in exchange for Guy offing Bruno’s much loathed father. It takes two to tango, however, and Guy doesn’t want to engage in this dastardly dance macabre.

What lingers about Strangers on a Train and sets it a cut above most Hitchcock pictures is its intricate, brooding and devilishly delightful doppelganger protagonist Bruno—played with a suave, nuanced charm that’s brilliantly contrasted with fierce criminal passion by Walker. As he enjoyed doing in many features, Hitchcock creates a fascinating Freudian relationship between the Oedipally conflicted son (Bruno) and his oddball mother. There’s also a hint of homoeroticism in Bruno’s manner and gaze toward Guy, which would have incited the ire of 1950s-era censors if the picture was in the hands of a less crafty filmmaker.

The movie’s disturbing and unforgettable centerpiece scene is, of course, Bruno stalking the ever-flirtatious Miriam during a carnival, particularly the tunnel of love sequence and what comes after, as reflected through one of the warped lens of the cheating spouse’s wayward eyeglasses. It’s an ingenious shot if there ever was one.

Don't be a stranger--make friends with fellow Hitchcock fans on Jan. 18

2012-01-15T09:00:00.000-06:00

Ever wondered what it feels like to ride a bullet train to hell? Join CineVerse on January 18 for "Strangers on a Train" (1951; 101 minutes), directed by Alfred Hitchcock, chosen by Rose Krc.

Plus, following the film, we'll watch a brief documentary that analyzes Hitchcock's unique filmmaking style.

Feeling Hot Hot Hot

2012-01-10T09:00:00.000-06:00

The Oak Lawn public library will present the following movie free of charge: Some Like It Hot (1959, Unrated, 120 min) -- Thursday, Jan. 12 at 10 a.m. When two musicians witness a mob hit, they flee the state in an all-female band disguised as women, but further complications set in. One of the American Film Institute’s 100 Greatest Movies. Starring Marilyn Monroe, Tony Curtis and Jack Lemmon. Learn more by clicking here.

8 1/2 is a 10

2012-01-08T09:00:00.000-06:00

On January 11, you are cordially invited to attend CineVerse for one of the strangest, most audacious, delicious, perplexing, original, and unforgettable movies you will ever see.

It's none other than “8½” (1963; 138 minutes, Italian language with English subtitles), directed by Federico Fellini, chosen by Len Gornik.

Classic movie Mondays at Aurora theater

2012-01-05T14:51:00.000-06:00

It's a bit of a drive for some CineVerse members, but the Paramount Theater in Aurora is now featuring "Classic movie Mondays" weekly at 6:45 for only 80 cents (!) For full details and to see their January schedule, click here.

Thanks to Brian for passing on this information.

Gump happens Jan. 4

2012-01-01T09:00:00.001-06:00

Life is like a box of DVDs--and one of them is "Forrest Gump" (1994; 142 minutes), next on the CineVerse schedule for Jan. 4. Directed by Robert Zemeckis and chosen by Tom Nesis, this film is about an unconventional person who...well, see for yourself on Wednesday.

Due to this movie's long runtime, we'll need to start promptly at 7 p.m.

Three days until "Three days of the Condor"

2011-12-26T09:00:00.001-06:00

On December 28, CineVerse will explore a riveting conspiracy thriller: “Three Days of the Condor” (1975; 117 minutes), directed by Sydney Pollack, chosen by Norm Omiecinski.

New CineVerse schedule posted

2011-12-21T22:56:00.000-06:00

Want to learn what we'll be screening and discussing over the next 2 months? The CineVerse January/February 2012 schedule is posted and ready for viewing. Click here to check it out.

A "Miracle" of a movie

2011-12-18T09:00:00.000-06:00

Santa Claus is comin' to town...but not before he pays a visit to CineVerse on December 21.

Join us that date for "Miracle on 34th Street" (1947; 96 minutes), directed by George Seaton, chosen by Peggy Quinn.

Plus: We'll conclude the evening with a preview of the January/Febraury 2012 CineVerse schedule.

Go bananas for "12 Monkeys"

2011-12-14T09:00:00.004-06:00

by Erik J. Martin

If you’re a fan of sci-fi that makes you think, here’s one that may have slipped under your radar: “12 Monkeys.”

Ex-Monty Python player Terry Gilliam, director of “Brazil” and “Time Bandits,” again proves he can crystallize his twisted futuristic vision on celluloid with clever ease. “12 Monkeys,” starring Bruce Willis, Madeleine Stowe and Brad Pitt (in perhaps his best acting stint yet), is one of those great word-of-mouth sci-fi films that you’ll probably still be talking about when you’re a grandparent.

Setting: In the year 2035, a terrible plague has forced humans to live underground. Societal outcast Willis is offered the chance clear his criminal record if he travels back in time to collect an early sample of the virus in the hopes that scientists may find a cure. Only living in the past can prove to be a real drag, especially when time travel paradoxes threaten your very existence.

A smartly written, visually captivating thriller executed to perfection by Gilliam.

French tart

2011-12-11T09:00:00.004-06:00

Prepare to be seduced by the wily charms and hypnotizing beauty of Catherine Deneuve, who plays the title role in “Belle de Jour" (1967; 101 minutes), directed by Luis Bunuel, chosen by Bob Hoggatt to be our CineVerse pick for Dec. 14.

Plus, we'll screen a trailer tribute to the finest works of director Buneul prior to the movie.

Crunch into "The Wild Bunch"

2011-12-09T09:00:00.001-06:00

Three years ago, CineVerse headed west--as in The Old West, shoot-em-up-Peckinpah style, with violence aplenty, when our group explored the insights and influence of the western that changed all westerns henceforth: "The Wild Bunch".

To tune into a podcast recording of that conversation, click here.

In need of a good movie? The Help is here

2011-12-08T09:00:00.002-06:00

The Oak Lawn public library will present the following movie free of charge: The Help (2011, PG-13, 146 min) -- Monday, Dec. 12 at 2 p.m. & 6:30 p.m. An aspiring author during the 1960’s Civil Rights Movement decides to write a book detailing the African American maid’s point of view on the white families they work for, and the hardships they endure on a daily basis. Based on Kathryn Stockett’s award-winning novel. Starring Emma Stone, Viola Davis and Octavia Spencer. Learn more by clicking here.

Christmas comes early

2011-12-03T09:00:00.000-06:00

The Oak Lawn public library will present the following movie free of charge: Christmas in Connecticut (1945, Unrated, 102 min) -- Wednesday, Dec. 7 at 10 a.m. A food writer who has lied about being the perfect housewife must try to cover her deception when her boss and a returning war hero invite themselves to her home for a traditional family Christmas. Starring Barbara Stanwyck and Dennis Morgan. Learn more by clicking here.

Go "Home for the Holidays," but come to CineVerse on Nov. 30

2011-11-27T09:00:00.000-06:00

Thanksgiving may have come and gone, but it's not too late to laugh at the foibles and frustrations one family encounters on turkey day, as amply evidenced in “Home for the Holidays” (1995; 103 minutes), directed by Jodie Foster, chosen by Patrick McMahon, scheduled for Nov. 30 at CineVerse.

Make plans to arrive on time, as we'll play a movie trivia game for DVD prizes from 7 - 7:40 p.m..

Salute "The General"

2011-11-23T09:00:00.001-06:00

Four years ago this month, CineVerse shone the spotlight on the comedic genius and directing prowess of Buster Keaton a la his timeless classic "The General."

To hear a podcast recording of that evening's absorbing group discussion, click here.

CineVerse cancelled Nov. 23

2011-11-20T09:00:00.001-06:00

Due to the Thanksgiving holiday, for which the Oak View Center building will be closed early on Wednesday, there will be no CineVerse group meeting on Nov. 23. We will resume next Wednesday as usual. Happy turkey day, everyone!

A skeleton army worthy of Harryhausen

2011-11-16T09:00:00.001-06:00

by Erik J. Martin

Looking for a fun flick to rent or queue up in your Netflix library? Check out Army of Darkness.

Though it was certainly the campiest outing in his three-part “Evil Dead” series, Sam Raimi’s “Army of Darkness” was also the most fun.

Bruce Campbell reprises his cult-hero role as Ash, the lone survivor of the first two flicks who can take a lickin’ from the undead and keep on tickin’ (case in point: he replaced his severed forearm with a chainsaw). For no apparent reason, Ash is transported to the 14th century, where he must lead a band of medieval warriors against—you guessed it—the army of darkness.

Raimi the horror historian throws a bone to classic Ray Harryhausen animation via his sword-wielding skeleton minions, who manage to steal the show. Gore and guffaws collide in this wicked widescreen romp.

Run, don't walk, to "Ran"

2011-11-14T09:00:00.003-06:00

On November 16, our tribute to Akira Kurosawa, one of the world's finest directors, will conclude. We've seen many greats from this giant of Japanese cinema over the past six months, but we've saved one of his best for last: "Ran" (1985; 162 minutes).

Note: Due to the long runtime of this film, CineVerse will start promptly at 7 p.m. and extend until 10:30 p.m. to allow enough time for group discussion.

Get Stung

2011-11-07T09:00:00.000-06:00

The Oak Lawn public library will present the following movie free of charge: The Sting (1973, PG, 129 min) -- Friday, Nov. 11 at 10 a.m. In 1930s Chicago, a young con man seeking revenge for his murdered partner teams up with a master of the big con to win a fortune from a criminal banker. The result is a story with several twists and last-minute alterations. Starring Paul Newman, Robert Redford and Robert Shaw.

Can that guy act or what?

2011-11-06T17:37:00.000-06:00

For November-December, CineVerse is running a new poll, and we want your vote. This time around, we ask: Who is the greatest movie actor of all time? Vote now by visiting the left sidebar on our home page and selecting from 20 favorite names.

By the way, here are the results of our most recent CineVerse poll, which asked, “What is the greatest movie western of all time?” The overwhelming winner was The Searchers, with 31% of the vote. Runners up included Unforgiven (21%), and, with 10% of the vote each, Rio Bravo, The Good The Bad and the Ugly, and The Magnificent Seven.

Cast a vote for "Election"

2011-11-06T09:00:00.000-06:00

Election day may have come and gone, but you can still get your fill of petty politics and crazy campaigning by joining Cineverse on November 9 fo "Election" (1999; 103 minutes), directed by Alexander Payne, chosen by Joe Valente.

Kane and able

2011-10-30T09:00:00.002-05:00

Seventy years ago this fall, the world of cinema changed forever with the release of Orson Welles' masterpiece Citizen Kane.

Now, CineVerse is prepared to celebrate the 70th anniversary of this seminal film. Make plans to join us on Nov. 2 for a viewing and discussion of this movie.

The best vampires come from Germany

2011-10-28T09:00:00.000-05:00

It's Halloween season, a fitting time to delve into a delicious horror film. One of the best of them all is Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horrors, by F.W. Murnau. CineVerse performed an autopsy on this classic vampire picture four years ago, the recording of which has been captured as a podcast. To listen to it, click here.

CineVerse Nov/Dec 2011 schedule has been updated

2011-10-23T17:30:00.000-05:00

"Forrest Gump", originally slated on the CineVerse calendar for Dec. 28, has been rescheduled for Jan. 4, 2012, at the request of its chooser, Tom.

On Dec. 28, instead we will view “Three Days of the Condor” (1975; 117 minutes), directed by Sydney Pollack, chosen by Norm Omiecinski.

Hence, the November/December 2011 schedule has been updated. To view the revised lineup, click here.

The only thing we have to fear is...The Thing itself

2011-10-23T09:00:00.002-05:00

If you want to give your goosebumps a good workout, plan on joining CineVerse on October 26 for our Shocktober Theater conclusion: "The Thing" (1982; 109 minutes), directed by John Carpenter and chosen by Brian Hansen. And happy Halloween!

There are deals and savings available for "The Thing".

A "Win Win" means you can't lose

2011-10-22T09:00:00.000-05:00

The Oak Lawn public library will present the following feature free of charge: Win Win (2011, R, 106 min) -- Wednesday, Oct. 26 at 2 p.m. & 6:30 p.m. A struggling lawyer and volunteer wrestling coach’s chicanery comes back to haunt him when the teenage grandson of the client he’s double-crossed comes into his life. Starring Paul Giamatti, Amy Ryan and Jaffrey Tambor. Click here for the 411.

New November/December 2011 CineVerse schedule

2011-10-20T11:50:00.000-05:00

Eager to learn what we'll be viewing and spewing about in CineVerse over the next 2 months? The November/December CineVerse schedule is now ready for prime time. Click here to view it.

Paranormal activity, Deborah Kerr-style

2011-10-16T09:00:00.000-05:00

Halloween is fast approaching, and to celebrate, CineVerse brings back Schocktober Theater. Make plans to join us on October 19--if your nerves can stand it--for one of the great ghost story movies of all time: "The Innocents" (1961; 100 minutes), directed by Jack Clayton.

Plus, following our discussion, we'll preview the November/December 2011 CineVerse schedule.

X does not mark the spot

2011-10-13T09:00:00.001-05:00

by Erik J. Martin

Remember “The X-Files” TV show and what an exciting breath of fresh air it was to small screen viewers when it first aired on Fox in 1993?

Well, that air quickly grew stale by 1998, when series creator Chris Carter and company finally brought their cult hit TV series to the big screen with “The X-Files: Fight the Future” movie. Sigh. I remember how pumped up I was to buy a ticket to this flick in the late nineties.

Talk about disappointing. The “X-Files” first movie is a patchwork of bigger budget pyrotechnics and FX (which actually work quite well) and a convoluted screenplay that, while laced with enough action, doesn't deliver the goods in quite the way that X-Files fans would expect. Here’s a quick capsule review to save you the rental fee:

This time around, Mulder and Scully--upset that the X-Files are now closed--are closer than ever before to the truth behind the government conspiracy they've been investigating for five seasons, and the danger has never been greater: it seems that aliens, who first landed on earth back in neanderthal days, are planning to take over the planet with the help of the covert Syndicate (the one that the shadowy Cigarette Smoking Man belongs to, remember?). In exchange for their own freedom, The Syndicate and its forces are raising millions of bees that, when released, will sting people all over the world and infect them with alien goo that grows and turns bodies into human hosts for aliens that hatch out of people's stomachs (sound familiar, H.R. Geiger Alien fans?) Only our two favorite FBI agents, of course, can stop this madness. The problem is that Scully is stung and abducted by the Syndicate. Thanks to a tip from Deep Throat du jour Dr. Alvin Kurtzweil (Martin Landau), Mulder finds Scully in the Arctic aboard a colossal buried alien mothership, and rescues her. They get back to civilization and convince the FBI to reopen the X-Files. And now, the Syndicate is really shakin' in its shoes...

Problems? Plenty. How about showing us some skin, as in more extraterrestrials! Instead, we get quick glimpses of pissed-off, sharp-clawed grey skins who like to shed a lot of blood. What the heck did they cast stellar actor Armin Mueller Stahl (as the Syndicate leader) for if he appears in about 90 seconds worth of the movie? The same question goes for the loveably goofy Lone Gunmen--why show them at all if it's only for a minute or two? Why not more character development here? How are we supposed to believe the hokey bee conspiracy, anyway? The aliens seem to be tough enough to handle us wimpy humans themselves. How did Scully escape from the autopsy cooler when the military police were scouring every inch for her? And for that matter, how did a naked Scully, covered by Mulder's coat when he rescues her, suddenly grow pants in the climactic conclusion?

In short, this picture’s swiss cheese plot, though tangy in its complexity, leaves us with far too many enigmatic questions. And its cliffhanging ending leaves viewers with a lack of closure and resolution. Weak.

Kurosawa goes contemporary

2011-10-09T09:00:00.000-05:00

Next up in our once-a-month tribute to Akira Kurosawa is a departure of sorts: the director switched settings from the samurai age to modern times to create a riveting thriller.

Slot October 12 on your calendar to catch "High and Low" (1963; 143 minutes). Note: Because of the long runtime of this film, we'll need to start promptly at 7 p.m. and we may go over a few minutes beyond 10 p.m.

Dial L for "Library"

2011-10-07T09:00:00.001-05:00

At no cost to you, the Oak Lawn public library will present the following movie: Dial M for Murder (1954, Unrated, 105 min) -- Monday, Oct. 10 at 10 a.m. An ex-tennis pro carries out a plot to murder his wife in this Alfred Hitchcock thriller. When things go wrong, he improvises a brilliant plan B. Starring Ray Milland, Grace Kelly and Robert Cummings. Learn more by clicking here.

That's one helluva rifle

2011-10-02T09:00:00.000-05:00

When he wasn't making populist everyman films for Frank Capra, tightening the knot of suspense for Hitchcock or playing the love interest opposite greats like Katherine Hepburn, Jimmy Stewart starred in his share of A-level westerns.

Join CineVerse on October 5 for one of them: "Winchester 73" (1950; 92 minutes), directed by Anthony Mann, chosen by Kevin McAlinden. Plus, prior to the film we'll screen a trailer reel saluting the works of Anthony Mann.

Agatha Christie hits the big screen

2011-09-25T09:00:00.000-05:00

If detective mysteries are your cup of tea, you'll want to join CineVerse on September 28 for "Murder on the Orient Express" (1974; 128 minutes), directed by Sidney Lumet, chosen by Luke Lukaszewski.

Eyre supply

2011-09-24T09:00:00.001-05:00

The Oak Lawn public library will present the following film completely gratis: Jane Eyre (2011, PG-13, 120 min) -- Tuesday, Sept. 27 at 2 p.m. & 6:30 p.m. In this romantic drama based on Charlotte Bronte’s classic novel, a mousy governess softens the heart of her employer but soon discovers that he’s hiding a terrible secret.Starring Mia Wasikowska, Michael Fassbender and Dame Judi Dench.. Click here for all the full scoop.

A teenie bit of Fellini

2011-09-20T09:00:00.000-05:00

A masterpiece from Italy celebrates its 50th birthday this year: Federico Fellini's La Dolce Vita, a film that Wikipedia describes as "a story of a passive journalist's week in Rome, and his search for both happiness and love that will never come. Generally cited as the film that marks the transition between Fellini's earlier neo-realist films and his later art films, it is widely considered one of the great achievements in world cinema."

CineVerse screened and discussed this flick back in 2007, and an insightful Reflections handout was created that further delves into the mysteries and interpretations of this movie. To give it a read, click here.

A Fistful of Kurosawa

2011-09-18T09:00:00.000-05:00

On September 21, CineVerse will continue its once-a-month tribute to the art of Akira Kurosawa with "Yojimbo" (1961; 110 minutes), directed by Kurosawa, a western set in the era of feudal Japan that was later remade as "A Fistful of Dollars" starring Clint Eastwood.

Journalistic integrity in black and white

2011-09-13T09:00:00.000-05:00

The Oak Lawn public library will present the following film free of charge: Good Night, and Good Luck. (2005, PG, 93 min) -- Friday, Sept. 16 at 10 a.m. Broadcast journalist Edward R. Murrow looks to bring down Senator Joseph McCarthy in George Clooney’s Oscar-nominated drama Starring David Strathairn, George Clooney and Patricia Clarkson. Click here for all the details.

Be "Happy-Go-Lucky"

2011-09-11T09:00:00.000-05:00

Make plans September 14 to attend CineVerse for a World Cinema Wednesday special from the United Kingdom: "Happy-Go-Lucky” (2008; 118 minutes), directed by Mike Leigh, chosen by David Ries.

Tolkien 'toons

2011-09-07T09:00:00.000-05:00

by Erik J. Martin

Hard to believe that the “The Fellowship of the Ring,” the first installment of director Peter Jackson’s FX epic trilogy “The Lord of the Rings, ” first rolled into theaters 10 years ago this December.

But Jackson’s live action effort isn’t the first time a work of J.R.R. Tolkien has been feted onscreen. The English author’s Middle Earth stories and characters enjoyed quite a resurgence in the ’70s and ’80s, a la animated adaptations—some more worthy than others of being revisited.

In 1978, “The Hobbit” became the first animated version of a Tolkien work, based on the book of the same name (Tolkien’s “prequel” to the Ring trilogy). This was produced as a made-for-TV children’s special by family-friendly animation mavens Arthur Rankin, Jr., and Jules Bass. Featured are the voices of Orson Bean as Bilbo Baggins, the esteemed film director John Huston as the wizard Gandalf, and yet another director from Hollywood’s golden age, Otto Preminger, as the Elvenking. The animation’s a bit crude and dated (in the corner-cutting Pokemon style), the simplified story isn’t very faithful to the book, and the folksy guitar-accompanied soundtrack songs wear on the nerves, but the movie has an all-ages charm to it that makes it an ideal introduction for kids to Tolkien’s works.

In 1978, edgy artist Ralph Bashki—who made waves with his 1972 “adult” cartoon Fritz the Cat—realized his lofty ambitions for a bigscreen project when his animated “The Lord of the Rings” was released in theaters. Bashki pulled out all the stops to create a dark, brooding adaptation that stayed faithful to Tolkien'’ trilogy. Innovative for its use of Bashki’s live action animation via rotoscoping and silhouette effects, the film nonetheless lacks in personality and fails to flesh out its characters enough for us to care. While visually stunning, it ultimately disappoints in that it ends abruptly at the halfway point of the second book—The Two Towers—because its director ran out of money. Sadly, Bashki never came back to finish the story with a sequel.

In 1980, “The Return of the King” aired: another Rankin/Bass G-rated made-for-TV cartoon that depicts the final book in Tolkien’s Ring trilogy. Skimpy on the animation and heavy on the same style of preachy narrative songs that made 1978’s The Hobbit irritating, many fans called this and its animated predecessor a major hatchet job. Yes, that voice you hear actually is Casey Kasem as Cousin Merry the hobbit, trying hard not to sound like Scoobie Doo’s beatnik sidekick Shaggy.

Kubrick makes a "Killing"

2011-09-04T09:00:00.000-05:00

Join CineVerse on September 7 for "The Killing" (1956; 85 minutes), directed by Stanley Kubrick, chosen by Dan Quenzel.

Plus, prior to the film, we'll screen excepts from the acclaimed documentary: "Stanley Kubrick" A Life in Pictures."

Ride 'em cowboy

2011-09-01T10:42:00.000-05:00

The Searchers of The Wild Bunch? Red River or Ride the High Country? Life is full of choices, and now CineVerse is asking you to make a tough one: What is the greatest movie western of all time? That is the question posed in our new poll. It was a tough call narrowing it down to 20, but hopefully one of your favorites is represented. Vote now by visiting our home page and participating in the survey on the left sidebar.

By the way, we have a split decision on our last poll, which asked "What is the greatest foreign film of all time?" Garnering 23 percent of the votes each were Seven Samurai and Cinema Paradiso. The runner up is M by Fritz Lang. Other vote getters included: Rashomon; The 400 Blows; Breathless; The Battle of Algiers; and Bicycle Thieves.

How would you spend your last remaining days?

2011-08-28T09:00:00.006-05:00

What if your doctor told you you only had a short time left to live? How would you spend your final days? That's the quandary facing a Japanese bureaucrat in "Ikiru (To Live)" (1952; 143 minutes), another masterwork directed by Akira Kurosawa, which is next on the CineVerse schedule for August 31.

This film continues our exploration of the works of Kurosawa. We'll continue to watch a different film from this director once a month over the next few months.

Note: Due to the long runtime of this film, we will need to start it promptly at 7 p.m. and our discussion may go slightly past 10 p.m.

The sweet smell of dandelions...

2011-08-27T09:00:00.000-05:00

The Oak Lawn public library is screening yet another free film in its REEL BOOKS" SERIES -- Like Dandelion Dust (2009, PG-13, 100 min.) -- Wednesday, August 31 at 2 p.m. -- A compelling drama that explores the different meanings of being a parent through the gritty, realistic lives of the struggling, blue-collar Porters, and the privileged Campbell family. Their lives intersect, intertwine and collide, all for the love of a little boy. Starring Mira Sorvino, Barry Pepper, Cole Hauser and Kate Levering. Based on a novel by Karen Kingsbury. Click here for all the info.

CineVerse September-October calendar ready for viewing

2011-08-25T09:00:00.001-05:00

Curious to learn what we'll be screening over the next 2 moths? Click here to access the September/October 2011 CineVerse schedule.

From dusk to Twilight

2011-08-23T09:00:00.002-05:00

The Oak Lawn Park District continues its Movies on the Green 2011 Friday night summer series with Twilight (the first film in the series) on August 26 at dusk (weather permitting). Bring a picnic blanket or lawn chairs and come see a great popcorn film for free on the lush lawn of the Village Green, located directly east of the Municipal Center and north of the Library. Click here for full details.

You'll swoon over Paper Moon

2011-08-22T09:00:00.000-05:00

The Oak Lawn public library will show yet another gratis feature in its REEL BOOKS" SERIES -- Paper Moon (1973, PG, 102 min.) -- Thursday, August 25 at 2 p.m. – During the Great Depression, a con man finds himself saddled with a young girl who may or may not be his daughter, and the two forge an unlikely partnership. Starring Ryan O'Neal and Tatum O'Neal. Based on a novel by Joe David Brown. Click here for the 411.

Zombies have more fun

2011-08-21T09:00:00.006-05:00

Zombies may want to eat your funnybone, but we'd rather tickle it. Join CineVerse on August 24 for a madap romp through an Armageddon populated by Woody Harrelson, Bill Murray and the living dead in "Zombieland" (2009; 88 minutes), directed by Ruben Fleischer, chosen by Danealle Kueltzo.

Plus, stick around and we'll preview a trailer reel of the September/October 2011 CineVerse schedule close to 10 p.m.

Target coupons are always available for movies.

Today I consider myself the luckiest film fan on the face of the Earth...

2011-08-14T09:00:00.001-05:00

We're heading into the late innings of the MLB season, so it's only fitting that we spotlight one of the great baseball movies of all time, "The Pride of the Yankees" (1942; 128 minutes), which is on the CineVerse calendar for August 17.

Starring Gary Cooper as Lou Gehrig, "Pride" was directed by Sam Wood, chosen by Len Gornik

A library with a view

2011-08-13T09:00:00.000-05:00

The Oak Lawn public library will be showing another free flick in its REEL BOOKS" SERIES -- A Room with a View (1985, R, 117 min.) -- Tuesday, August 16 at 10 a.m. -- The coming-of-age story of a young woman who longs to burst free from the repression of British upper class manners and mores as she wrestles to choose between two very opposite suitors. Starring Helena Bonham Carter, Maggie Smith, Julian Sands and Daniel Day-Lewis. Based on a novel by E.M. Forster. Click here for more details.

How green was my CineVerse

2011-08-11T09:00:00.002-05:00

This year marks the 70th anniversary for a number of classic films, including Citizen Kane, Sergeant York, The Maltese Falcon, Sullivan's Travels and How Green Was My Valley.

CineVerse dissected the latter back in 2008, the result of which yielded a thought-provoking group discussion. To hear a podcast recording of that chat, click here.

To Sir Alec Guiness, with love...

2011-08-07T09:00:00.000-05:00

Before Alec Guinness became a familiar face to Americans as Col. Nicholson or Obi-Wan Kenobi, he starred in a series of wonderful comedies produced by Ealing Studios in Britain. On August 10, CineVerse invites you to experience one of the best of that Ealing cycle, "The Lavender Hill Mob" (1951; 81 minutes), directed by Charles Crichton, chosen by Rose Krc.

Come early, as we'll also be viewing a trailer reel of the best Ealing comedies preceding the main feature

Those kicks were fast as lightning...

2011-08-03T09:00:00.000-05:00

The Oak Lawn Park District continues its Movies on the Green 2011 Friday night summer series with The Karate Kid (2010) on August 5 at dusk (weather permitting). Bring a picnic blanket or lawn chairs and come see a great popcorn film for free on the lush lawn of the Village Green, located directly east of the Municipal Center and north of the Library. Click here for full details.

Getting dizzy over Hitchcock

2011-08-02T09:00:00.000-05:00

The Oak Lawn public library will be screening another free movie in its REEL BOOKS" SERIES -- Vertigo (1958, Unrated, 128 min.) -- Friday, August 5 at 10 a.m. -- In this Alfred Hitchcock thriller, a San Francisco detective suffering from acrophobia investigates the strange activities of an old friend's wife, all the while becoming dangerously obsessed with her. Starring James Stewart and Kim Novak. Based on a novel by Pierre Boileau and Thomas Narcejac. Click here for more details.

Do you feel lucky?

2011-07-31T09:00:00.000-05:00

Punks need not apply, but if you've got a thick skin and a yen for gritty urban action, make a date to attend CineVerse on August 3 for "Dirty Harry" (1971; 102 minutes), directed by Don Siegel, chosen by Norm Omiecinski.

Plus, we'll screen a short documentary, entitled "The Long Shadow of Dirty Harry", following the film.

Star Wars rates high among American film classics

2011-07-27T09:00:00.014-05:00

Why Star Wars will endure as a movie classic

by Erik J. Martin

(Note: This is the last in a 4-part article)

In 1997, the American Film Institute published its inaugural list of the 100 greatest American movies of all time, as selected by a blue-ribbon panel of leaders from across the film community. Star Wars: A New Hope ranked no. 15 on the list. When the AFI polled experts anew 10 years later in 2007, the film had moved up two notches to no. 13 on the list of 100.

“This list was not only reflective of the tastes of critics, industry insiders and actors and actresses who were allowed to vote, but it’s reflective of the general public as well,” said Seth Oster, communications director for the American Film Institute, whom I spoke with back in 1999. “Clearly, what they were saying with this list is that these 100 films, including Star Wars, have stood the test of time and quality as the great achievements of the first 100 years of filmmaking.”

The AFI’s 1997 list immediately caught the public’s eye, sparking healthy controversy and debate over the rankings, inclusions and omissions of favorite films.

“People will not always agree on movies,” said Oster, who adds that the list is meant to be subjective. “Our goal was to get people talking about the classics.”

Wherever Star Wars ranks among your personal favorites, Film historian Vivian Sobchack suggests that viewers should think for themselves and not be swayed by critical or public opinion.

“The glut of highly publicized ‘greatest ever’ and ‘top 100' movie lists “should be interpreted with a grain of salt,” she said. “The big, event movies like Star Wars, Gone With the Wind and Titanic will continue to place high on these polls and critics lists because of their overexposure and overwhelming popularity, but “unless you use a single criteria, such as ‘top 10 films of technical importance,’ or ‘best big box office masterpieces,’ it just becomes just another popularity contest.”

The film that introduced Japanese cinema to the world

2011-07-24T09:00:00.002-05:00

Films from the land of the rising sun were little seen on these shores, until 1950, when Akira Kurosawa became a household name among cinema lovers with the release of "Roshomon" (1950; 88 minutes), one of the great movie masterpieces from any country.

Join CineVerse on July 27 for our continued salute to Kurosawa.We'll screen and discuss a different film by this acclaimed director once a month over the next few months.

The sum of its parts, or the parts of its sum?

2011-07-20T09:00:00.001-05:00

Why Star Wars will endure as a movie classic

by Erik J. Martin

(Note: This is part 3 of a 4-part series)

Some critics prefer The Empire Strikes Back to A New Hope for its more dramatic conflict and deeper probe into the main characters. Richard Schickel, Time Magazine film critic, argued, however, that Empire and Return of the Jedi “didn’t have as much of an impact. Sure, they were more sophisticated in their special effects, but to me, the first time is always the best time.”

Mark Caro, former film critic for the Chicago Tribune, agreed. “I still believe it’s the best of the three movies. Empire may have had more sophisticated effects and richer storytelling and acting, but the first one is the more complete movie.”

Other scholars and historians, including Vivian Sobchack, professor of film and television at the University of California at Los Angeles, believe that, like The Godfather trilogy, the first three Star Wars films should be judged collectively, as a whole.

"The first one made the biggest splash, but the second film deepens the whole series,” said Sobchack. “I didn’t like (Jedi), but it still brings about a resolution that’s important in the series.”

The Force will be with you, always
How will Star Wars be ranked by future generations? “It will keep the shimmer it has historically,” Sobchack said. “In terms of social and cultural importance, hype and eventfulness, it’s a very important film that will continue to be watched and remembered.”

The fact that Star Wars came out 22 years ago and is still such a huge hit is an indication of its staying power, said Caro. “I don’t believe it will have the same staying power as the Wizard of Oz, for instance, but it will be around.”

Chicago Sun-Times film critic Roger Ebert once described Star Wars as one of the only motion pictures he’d seen that felt like an out-of-body experience.

“If I were asked to say with certainty which movies will still be widely-known a century or two from now, I would list 2001, and The Wizard of Oz, and Keaton and Chaplin, and Astaire and Rogers, and probably Casablanca...and Star Wars, for sure,” Ebert was quoted as saying years ago.

“One hundred years from now, when we have reached the stars and there are no more wars, a peaceful planet will look back in awe and wonder at the films that thrilled its great, great, great grandchildren,” said Forrest J. Ackerman, film historian and former editor/creator of Famous Monsters of Filmland magazine, whom I interviewed in 1999. “Leading all the rest will be the Star Wars series.”

Next week: Star Wars ranks high among American film classics

Make plans for a movie heavyweight

2011-07-18T09:00:00.000-05:00

The Oak Lawn Park District continues its Movies on the Green 2011 Friday night summer series with Rocky (1976) on July 22 at dusk (weather permitting). Bring a picnic blanket or lawn chairs and come see a great popcorn film for free on the lush lawn of the Village Green, located directly east of the Municipal Center and north of the Library. Click here for full details.

Now that's one dedicated mom...

2011-07-17T09:00:00.000-05:00

Meet Susan Tom of Fairfield, California, and her 11 adopted children with special needs. They're the focus of the next CineVerse feature, a documentary called "My Flesh and Blood" (2003; 83 minutes), set for July 20. This film was directed by Jonathan Karsh and chosen by Janet Pierucci.

Also, make plans to arrive promptly at 7 to take part in a movie trivia game prior to the screening; you can win a DVD prize.

Rediscover National Velvet

2011-07-16T09:00:00.000-05:00

The Oak Lawn public library will screen yet another free film in its REEL BOOKS" SERIES -- National Velvet (1944, G, 123 min.) -- Tuesday, July 19 at 10 a.m. – A jaded former jockey helps a young girl prepare a wild but gifted horse for England's Grand National Sweepstakes. Starring Elizabeth Taylor and Mickey Rooney. Based on a children's book by Enid Bagnold. Click here for details.

Fan favorite, critics' darling

2011-07-13T09:00:00.029-05:00

Why Star Wars will endure as a movie classic

by Erik J. Martin
(Note: This is part 2 of a 4-part series)

Audiences certainly never cared much for what reviewers thought, and they made their votes of confidence count at the box office. What Star Wars may lack, according to the critics, in warmth, character depth and cerebral dialogue, it makes up for tenfold in visually spectacular, feel-good entertainment value, fans believed. Moviegoers lined up around the block to see the film the first time around, and came out in droves when the Special Edition was released in 1997. Today, you’d be hard pressed to find one nuclear family home that lacks a video copy of Episode 4 in the Star Wars saga.

According to a poll of 20,000 readers, Sci-Fi Entertainment Magazine reported in the late 1990s that fans think Star Wars: A New Hope is the number one science-fiction film of all time. Internet Movie Database (www.imdb.com) users have voted the movie as the 16th best ever, giving it an average grade of 8.8 out of 10 on the quality scale.

Star Wars also scored a major critical coup in 1997 when it was ranked no. 15 on the American Film Institute’s list of the 100 Greatest Movies, selected by AFI's blue-ribbon panel of more than1,500 leaders of the American movie community. It placed as both the highest ranked science-fiction film and action/adventure film (unless you count Bridge On the River Kwai, no. 13) on the widely exposed list.

“The best movies are, by and large, movies that are rooted in the populist tradition that, at the same time, aspire in unpretentious ways to transcend those roots,” said Richard Schickel, film critic for Time Magazine, whom I interviewed back in 1999. Schickel voted for Star Wars to be named one of the AFI’s top 100 films. “Star Wars is a great example of that -- one of those films that belongs up there with classics like Casablanca and Citizen Kane.”

Back in 1999 when I interviewed film historian Vivian Sobchack, professor of film and television at the University of California at Los Angeles and author of “The Screening Space: The American Science Fiction Film” (Rutgers University Press), she begged to differ.

"Star Wars is not way up there in my top 100 movies, by any means,” said Sobchack, also a voter for the AFI Top 100 list. “I think it’s an extremely important film, however, and certainly one of the best science-fiction movies. It changed the genre forever, along with Close Encounters of the Third Kind. Star Wars was a return to narrative and very full-bodied, archetypal characters – a movie that borrowed upon all sorts of genres like the western and the war film that, in the 1970s, had lost their kick.”

Star Wars “is one of those rare, vastly popular films that has a very serious subtext with real connections to powerfully mythic material,” said Schickel. “It works on all those basic movie levels. It’s a wonderful adventure story with terrific wit and spirit. It has a great villain and a strong feminist character in Leia. I’ll argue that the acting is actually splendid–it perfectly suits the mood of that movie.”

Aesthetically, Schickel continued, “Star Wars broke remarkable new ground, especially considering that previous sci-fi films never really did. But Star Wars had such epic scale, that I don’t even think of it as a science-fiction film. It’s more of a grand, mythic, heroic journey.”

Former Chicago Tribune film critic Mark Caro referred to Star Wars as one of the greatest “popcorn films” ever, he told me 12 years ago. “A lot of popcorn movies have special effects and explosions that don’t hold your interest as much. With Star Wars, though, you’re completely wrapped up in the story, like a mesmerizing video game experience.”

Next week: The sum of its parts, or the parts of its sum?

Enjoy a Breakfast with Hepburn

2011-07-10T09:00:00.000-05:00

It will be closer to dinnertime, but CineVerse cordially invites you to indulge in "Breakfast at Tiffany's" (1962; 115 minutes), for which you have a reservation set for July 13. This delightful romance was directed by Blake Edwards and chosen by Jeanne Johnson.

Great movie, even greater game

2011-07-09T09:00:00.000-05:00

The Oak Lawn public library will be screening another free film in its REEL BOOKS" SERIES -- The Greatest Game Ever Played (2005, PG, 120 min.) -- Tuesday, July 12 at 10 a.m. -- A coming-of-age, golf drama based on the true story of the 1913 US Open, where 20-year-old Francis Ouimet defeated his idol, 1900 US Open champion, Englishman, Harry Vardon. Starring Shia LaBeouf. Based on a biography by Mark Frost. Click here for details.

Citizen Vader

2011-07-06T09:00:00.004-05:00

Why Star Wars will endure as a movie classic

by Erik J. Martin

(Note: This is part 1 of a 4-part article that will publish over the next 4 weeks).

“Here’s looking at you, kid.”
“Frankly, my dear, I don’t give a damn.”
“Rosebud...”
“I’ll make him an offer he can’t refuse.”
“There’s no place like home.”
“May the Force be with you.”

In 1977, few would dare utter the latter catch quote in the same breath as its predecessors. But 34 years after the release of Star Wars: A New Hope, who wouldn’t agree that “May the Force be with you” is the most identifiable signature phrase of any movie in history?

What’s more, why shouldn’t Star Wars be considered one of the greatest films in history – a cinematic achievement worthy of standing among all-time silver screen classics like Casablanca, Gone With the Wind, The Wizard of Oz, The Godfather, or It’s a Wonderful Life?

A long time ago, the critics were far, far away...
When Star Wars: A New Hope was released in 1977, it was met with mostly positive reviews, though no major critic deemed it an instant classic, artistic masterpiece or cinematic tour de force. Its groundbreaking special effects were certainly widely hailed and its soundtrack and entertaining screenplay garnered favorable critiques.

The film literati, however, were quick to find fault with the sci-fi flick’s performances (New Yorker critic Pauline Kael condemned Star Wars for subscribing to the “Ricky Nelson school of acting”), dialogue, and clichéd motifs borrowed from other genre pictures, such as the OK-corral gunfights, the damsel-in-distress rescue, and the time-worn good-versus-evil conflict.

Time Magazine critic Richard Corliss admitted in a 1997 Time article that he arrived at this unflattering assessment after seeing Star Wars for the first time in 1977: “The sets were Formica, the characters cardboard; the tale had drive but no depth, a tour at warp speed through an antiseptic landscape. I admired George Lucas' attention to detail, his Tolkien-like industry in creating a host of alien life-forms, but I remained unmoved. Peering at Star Wars through the telescope of my disinterest, I made this fearless box-office prediction: ‘The movie's legs will prove as vulnerable as C-3PO's.’”

Academy Award voters agreed with these criticisms enough to only reward the film with lesser, technical Oscars (Best Art Direction, Costume Design, Visual Effects, Film Editing, Music, and Sound). Nominations for Best Picture, Director (Lucas), Supporting Actor (Alec Guinness as Obi-Wan Kenobi) and Original Screenplay lost. Star Wars’ boffo box-office success began to draw a backlash from some critics, who came to view the film as the prototype for all the mindless, action-packed Hollywood blockbusters that followed. Lucas’ epic was branded as the movie that signaled the end of the string of dark, brooding artistic masterpieces of the 1970s– the kind of critic’s darlings that films like The Godfather, Chinatown and A Clockwork Orange represented. Soon, the critical measuring stick became the bigger the movie hype, the lower the movie type. The unspoken but pervading thought: films raking in nine figures probably didn’t deserve four stars.

But, if a supermodel can say “don’t hate me because I’m beautiful,” why should Star Wars be given the film critic snob job treatment just because it’s the most watched movie and the second-biggest box office success in history?

Next week: Fan favorite, critics’ darling

Take a walk on the Blind Side

2011-07-05T09:00:00.000-05:00

The Oak Lawn Park District continues its Movies on the Green 2011 Friday night summer series with The Blind Side on July 8 at dusk (weather permitting). Bring a picnic blanket or lawn chairs and come see a great popcorn film for free on the lush lawn of the Village Green, located directly east of the Municipal Center and north of the Library. Click here for full details.

Feel the Heat

2011-07-03T09:00:00.009-05:00

The sex is steamy, but the noir elements are even steamier in "Body Heat" (1981; 113 minutes), which is next up on the CineVerse schedule, slated for July 6. Don't miss this sultry thriller directed by Lawrence Kasdan and chosen by Michelle Cooney.

One persuasive movie

2011-07-02T09:00:00.000-05:00

The Oak Lawn library will be screening another free film in its "REEL BOOKS" SERIES -- Persuasion (1995, PG, 107 min.) -- Wednesday, July 6 at 2 p.m. -- In 1800s England, Anne Elliot, the daughter of a financially troubled aristocratic family, was persuaded to break off her engagement to a young seaman with poor family connections. After each of their fortunes changed eight years later, will he and Anne rekindle their old flame? Starring Amand2a Root and Ciarán Hinds. Based on a novel by Jane Austen. Click here for details.

World cinema web poll

2011-07-01T09:00:00.001-05:00

CineVerse has a new poll you can participate in. This time around, we ask the question: What is the greatest foreign (non English-speaking) film of all time? There are so many worthy candidates, but this list is boiled it down to the top 30 that frequently appear on "best of" lists among critics/scholars/historians. Cast your vote now (deadline July 31). Apologies if one of your favorite foreign flicks is not on this list.

By the way, here are the results of our last poll, which asked: What is the greatest film noir movie ever made? The winner was Double Indemnity, with 50% of the votes, followed by The Maltese Falcon (21%). Also garnering 7% of the vote each was Out of the Past, Mildred Pierce, White Heat, and The Big Sleep.

New CineVerse schedule posted

2011-06-30T13:26:00.000-05:00

The CineVerse July-August 2011 calendar is ready for viewing. To check out our schedule of movies over the next two months, click here. We hope you'll make plans to join us on Wednesdays this summer!

Seven Samurai continued....

2011-06-26T09:00:00.000-05:00

You won't want to miss CineVerse on June 29, when we'll screen part 2 of Seven Samurai, followed by an in-depth discussion on the film.

From a 6th anniversary to a 60th anniversary

2011-06-22T09:00:00.044-05:00

CineVerse is proud to be celebrating our sixth birthday this month. But 60 is a much more impressive milestone than 6.

Here's a shout out to several films that were released back in 1951, 60 years ago, that are worth checking out:

Ace in the Hole (aka The Big Carnival), directed by Billy Wilder, starring Kirk Douglas
The African Queen, directed by John Huston, starring Humphrey Bogart (Oscar for best actor) and Katharine Hepburn
Alice in Wonderland
An American in Paris, starring Gene Kelly and Leslie Caron
A Christmas Carol
Cry, the Beloved Country
The Day the Earth Stood Still, directed by Robert Wise, starring Michael Rennie and Patricia Neal
Decision Before Dawn
Flying Leathernecks
The Idiot
The Lavender Hill Mob, directed by Charles Crichton, starring Alec Guinness, Stanley Holloway and Sid James
The Lemon Drop Kid
No Highway in the Sky, starring James Stewart and Marlene Dietrich
A Place in the Sun, starring Montgomery Clift, Elizabeth Taylor and Shelley Winters
Quo Vadis, starring Robert Taylor and Deborah Kerr
The Red Badge of Courage
The River (Le Fleuve)
Royal Wedding
Scrooge (aka A Christmas Carol), starring Alistair Sim
Show Boat, a musical starring Kathryn Grayson and Ava Gardner with songs by Oscar Hammerstein and Jerome Kern
Strangers on a Train, directed by Alfred Hitchcock, starring Farley Granger and Robert Walker
A Streetcar Named Desire, directed by Elia Kazan, starring Vivien Leigh (Oscar for best actress) and Marlon Brando
Summer Interlude (Sommarlek)
Susana (aka The Devil and the Flesh), directed by Luis Buñuel
The Thing from Another World
When Worlds Collide
Young Wives' Tale
You're in the Navy Now

Despicable me...for free!

2011-06-21T09:00:00.004-05:00

The Oak Lawn Park District continues its Movies on the Green 2011 Friday night summer series with Despicable Me (animated) on June 24 at dusk (weather permitting). Bring a picnic blanket or lawn chairs and come see a great popcorn film for free on the lush lawn of the Village Green, located directly east of the Municipal Center and north of the Library. Click here for full details.

7 Samurai for our 6th anniversary

2011-06-19T09:00:00.002-05:00

To help celebrate CineVerse's sixth anniversary, we'll be watching and discussing one of the finest films ever made. Make a date to attend CineVerse on June 22 for a World Cinema Wednesday special: Seven Samurai (part 1) (1954; 207 minutes), directed by Akira Kurosawa, chosen by Bob Hoggatt. Part 2 will screen next week, immediately after which we will conduct our group discussion on the movie.

Prior to the movie, we will screen a documentary on the art and impact of Kurosawa.

Note that we will be exploring a different Kurosawa masterpiece once a month over the next few months, so stay tuned for forthcoming details on the next two Kurosawa classics we'll dissect, slated for August and September.

Monkey business

2011-06-15T09:00:00.005-05:00

by Erik J. Martin

Back in 1968, the world had gone bananas over what was to become our favorite sci-fi doomsday “hairy” tale: “The Planet of the Apes.”

Based on Pierre Boulle’s novel “Monkey Planet,” “Apes” stars Charlton Heston as George Taylor, the leader of a trio of astronauts who crash land on a post-apocalyptic world where talking apes have evolved from men and are the master species, while homo sapiens are regarded as inferior savages and slaves. The cast also includes Roddy McDowall and Kim Hunter as friendly simian scientists Cornelius and Dr. Zira, and Maurice Evans as the esteemed Dr. Zaius.

“Apes,” which benefitted from a talented cast and crew that included director Franklin J. Schaffner, co-writer Rod Serling, and composer Jerry Goldsmith, became a much-talked about cinematic sensation upon its release 30 years ago. As 1968 progressed, the movie picked up steam as a cult classic, as well as Oscar nominations for Best Costume Design and Best Original Score. Four sequels (1970's “Beneath the Planet of the Apes,” 1971's “Escape From the Planet of the Apes,” 1972's “Conquest of the Planet of the Apes,” and 1973's “Battle for the Planet of the Apes”), a short-lived “Planet of the Apes” television series and a follow up-made-for-TV movie (“Back to the Planet of the Apes”) in 1974, and a Saturday morning cartoon series, followed. While McDowell appeared in most of these Ape reincarnations, Heston only returned for “Beneath the Planet of the Apes.”

“Planet of the Apes” is perhaps most famous for its shocking twist ending, and for oft-quoted Heston lines like “Get your stinking paws off me, you damned, dirty ape!” Apocalyptically prophetic, the film’s social commentary remains as relevant today as it did in the Cold War climate of 1968.

A bit of gorilla trivia: Edward G. Robinson, who starred with Heston in 1956's “The Ten Commandments,” was originally cast as Dr. Zaius, but backed out when he learned about the rigors involved with preparing and wearing the lifelike simian makeup and costumes.

No, it's not an X-rated flick...it's The Naked Prey

2011-06-11T09:00:00.000-05:00

Imagine being chased through the jungle like a beast of prey by an angry tribe hot on your trail. Better yet, join CineVerse on June 15 for The Naked Prey (1966; 96 minutes), directed by Cornel Wilde, chosen by Joe Valente.

Additionally, following the discussion, we'll screen a trailer preview of the CineVerse July/August schedule.

Indiana Jones goes green

2011-06-07T09:00:00.014-05:00

The Oak Lawn Park District kicks off its Movies on the Green 2011 Friday night summer series with Raiders of the Lost Ark on June 10 at dusk (weather permitting). Bring a picnic blanket or lawn chairs and come see a great popcorn film for free on the lush lawn of the Village Green, located directly east of the Municipal Center and north of the Library. Click here for full details.

War is hell...and foggy, too

2011-06-04T09:00:00.000-05:00

Ever wanted to tap the brain of one of the Pentagon's top war architects?

On June 8, CineVerse will present one of the greatest documentaries of the past decade (or any decade for that matter): The Fog of War (2003; 107 minutes), directed by Errol Morris, chosen by Brian Hansen.

Happy anniversary to CineVerse

2011-06-01T09:00:00.005-05:00

Hard to believe, but CineVerse is celebrating another birthday. It was 6 years ago today that Oak Lawn's first and only free film discussion group had its initial meeting. We'll celebrate in proper fashion with our exploration of "The Seven Samurai" over the last 2 weeks in June.

Meanwhile, I just wanted to thank all our members for helping to make our club so fun, rewarding and worthwhile. Here's to another 6 years of watching and talking about movies!

No CineVerse meeting June 1

2011-05-29T09:00:00.001-05:00

It doesn't happen often, but there will be no CineVerse meeting on June 1. Our group will reconvene next week on June 8. Hope to see you then!

Give Lawrence another listen

2011-05-26T09:00:00.000-05:00

Three years ago this week, CineVerse took a fine tooth comb to Lawrence of Arabia, the David Lean masterwork, and came away with an insightful group discussion on the movie's merits.

If you'd like to hear a podcast recording of that chat, click here.

One smoking hot movie

2011-05-21T09:00:00.000-05:00

Ever wonder how it feels to be a big tobacco flak? Join CineVerse on May 25 for the irreverently hilarious Thank You For Smoking (2005; 92 minutes), directed by Jason Reitman, chosen by Helen Cuprisin.

Plus, we'll have an open group discussion on our favorite films and why we love the cinema following the movie.

Under the radar: Set your sights on Grosse Pointe Blank

2011-05-18T09:00:00.004-05:00

Ask Steve Pink where his edgy group came up with the moniker “New Crime Productions” (NCP), and he invokes the name of Galileo.

“He was a criminal of the highest order, considered a heretic for his positive ideas about the universe,” said Pink when I interviewed him back in 1997 about NCP, which was originally launched as an alternative Chicago theater troupe in 1988. “A ‘new crime’ is an original or innovative way of creating. As technology and innovations come into the world, there are no laws to regulate them at first.”

Along with actor John Cusack and D.V. De Vincentis—two other former Chicago-area pals—Pink is one of the partners-in-crime and co-founders of NCP, which has been responsible for a number of critically acclaimed films since the late 1990s, including “Arigo,” “High Fidelity,” and “Grace is Gone.”

But perhaps “Grosse Pointe Blank” is NCP’s greatest achievement—not to mention its first. Written and co-produced by Pink and DeVincentis for NCP and distributed by Hollywood Pictures, the film stars Cusack as a successful hit man trying to fight off middle age and an identity crisis. On the advice of his shrink, Cusack vows to rediscover himself by attending his high school reunion back in his hometown of Grosse Point, Michigan, where his sordid past comes crashing down on him like an avalanche.

“We really believed in the story from the start,” said Pink of the black comedy, adapted from a screenplay by Tom Jankiewicz. “It’s paints a great character written from an emotional, socially satirical point of view. Despite his moral ambiguity as an assassin, (Cusack) plays a character you actually can’t help liking.”

New Crime co-conspirator De Vincentis seconded that motion. "It's less the story of a psychopath than a person who simply takes all the serious buzz phrases like 'be all you can be,' or 'let's go out there and make a killing,' seriously. The character rediscovers his past while reinventing his present."

Though the NCP trio wasn’t able to shoot in Chicago as originally intended due to bad weather (principal filming took place on the west coast, though on a "rigorous" and "very challenging" schedule) they were able to infuse plenty of Windy City talent into the film: the supporting cast includes NCP theater alum Jeremy Piven and fellow Columbia College pals Patrick O’Neill, K.K. Dodds, and Audrey Kissell. Also playing opposite Cusack are big screen veterans Dan Ackroyd and Alan Arkin.

"Beyond a hectic production schedule, it was pretty tough just trying to adjust the script every day to meet the physical needs of the production while maintaining its integrity," said De Vincentis. "We were literally rewriting the story every day."

NCP’s last project was “Hot Tub Time Machine” starring Cusack and Chevy Chase, which was released last year.

Enjoy the joie de vivre of Amelie

2011-05-14T09:00:00.000-05:00

Want to enjoy a French film confection as sweet and luscious as a bon bon?

Make plans to attend CineVerse on May 18 for a World Cinema Wednesday special from France that you won't easily forget: Amelie (2001; 122 minutes), directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet, chosen by Larry Twardy.

Can you feel the heat?

2011-05-07T09:00:00.000-05:00

Fritz Lang is known for masterpieces like Metropolis and M. But after he came to America, he specialized in film noir features that sizzled.

One great example is "The Big Heat" (1953; 89 minutes), our next CineVerse spotlight, scheduled for May 11, chosen by Peggy Quinn. Prior to the movie, we'll also enjoy a trailer tribute to the best of the film noir genre.

Favorite films noir

2011-05-02T09:00:00.003-05:00

For May, CineVerse asks the question: What is the greatest film noir movie ever made? Register your vote before the end of the month by participating in our online poll, which can be found in the left sidebar at the top of our Web page (www.cineversegroup.blogspot.com).

For the uninitiated, film noir, according to Wikipedia, is a cinematic term used primarily to describe stylish Hollywood crime dramas, particularly those that emphasize cynical attitudes and sexual motivations. Hollywood's classic film noir period is generally regarded as stretching from the early 1940s to the late 1950s. Film noir of this era is associated with a low-key black-and-white visual style that has roots in German Expressionist cinematography. Many of the prototypical stories and much of the attitude of classic noir derive from the hardboiled school of crime fiction that emerged in the United States during the Depression.

By the way, here are the results of March's poll, which queried: What is the most overrated Best Picture Oscar winner of all time?

Oliver (30%)
Ordinary People (15%)
The Greatest Show on Earth (15%)
The King's Speech (15%)

A Beautiful Mind is a terrible thing to waste

2011-05-01T09:00:00.000-05:00

Like to solve complex math problems? Nah, neither do we. But we do enjoy a good flick starring Russell Crowe.

Join CineVerse on May 4 for "A Beautiful Mind" (2001; 135 minutes), directed by Ron Howard, chosen by Tom Nesis.

Sir Laurence's finest hour?

2011-04-24T09:00:00.000-05:00

Between 1944 and 1955, Laurence Olivier directed and starred in a trilogy of exceptional British films adapted from the works of Shakespeare: Henry V (1944), Hamlet (1948), and Richard III (1955). CineVerse invites you to experience the latter on Wednesday, April 27. And be prepared to be impressed.

Note: Because this film runs 161 minutes, our April 27 meeting will run from 6:45 p.m. until 10:15 p.m.--a half hour longer than normal to fit in enough time for discussion. Please try not to be late, as we will start the film promptly around 6:45 p.m.

Pocast blast from the past: 3 classics from Keaton, Chaplin and Lloyd

2011-04-20T09:00:00.000-05:00

About this time 2 years ago, CineVerse explored the works of the 3 great geniuses of silent comedy: Charlie Chaplin, Buster Keaton and Harold Lloyd.

To learn more about what made these artists and their efforts so memorable, click here to listen to a podcast recording of that evening's vibrant group discussion.

Swan song for The Duke

2011-04-17T09:00:00.000-05:00

You could make a case that John Wayne was the single most iconic movie star of the American cinema, considering his prolific and memorable appearances in countless classic westerns as the tough, grizzled, complex cowboy/sherrif/frontiersman protagonist. Love him or loathe him, he certainly made a strong impression. On Wednesday, April 20, CineVerse will screen The Duke's final entry in a spectacular filmography, The Shootist, co-starring James Stewart.

Rediscovering Brigadoon

2011-04-14T09:00:00.002-05:00

by Erik J. Martin

Judged against the time-tested conventions of classic cinema, Brigadoon (1954) is a film that should not work.

For starters, instead of being shot on the lush, atmospheric moors of the Scottish Highlands, as its primarily outdoor setting begs for, MGM decided to film on an immense soundstage to save money and ensure more controlled conditions (Scotland’s rainy climate was feared too unpredictable). To fully grasp the magnitude of this Hollywood hubris, imagine for a moment if The Sound of Music were not shot on location in picturesque Salzburg and Bavaria as it was, but filmed within the confines of a stage with painted backdrops, fiberglass trees and synthetic floors meant to resemble cobblestone streets.

Secondly, Brigadoon suffers in two technical areas: aspect ratio and color processing. MGM unwisely chose to employ anamorphic widescreen (via 20th Century Fox’s overhyped CinemaScope, which created a 2.55:1 frame), which would otherwise be ideal for an al fresco epic romantic musical. And instead of filming in the complex but chromatically vivid three-strip Technicolor process (which yielded so many timeless MGM masterpieces, from Gone With the Wind and The Wizard of Oz to Singin’ in the Rain), the studio opted for Ansco, a more economical one-strip color film alternative.

Lastly, among MGM’s own prior musical filmography, we’ve seen funnier sidekicks before (witness Donald O’Connor in Singin’ in the Rain), more inspired and innovative dancing (An American in Paris) and better screenplays with a more believable love story (Meet Me in St. Louis).

Yet, despite all these shortcomings, Brigadoon holds together as a memorable bit of movie confection on the sheer strength of two undeniable ingredients: the too-talented-to-fail Gene Kelly and the undeniably hummable ditties of lyricist Alan Jay Lerner and composer Frederick Loewe, who penned this musical originally for Broadway.

As in virtually ever movie he’s graced, Kelly makes the viewer believe in a notion as hokey as love at first sight. It’s more than the sinuous dance moves and lovestruck acrobatics he displays—there’s something indescribably potent about the head-over-heels glimmer in his eyes when he’s smitten by a lass as luscious as Fiona, portrayed here by the pretty-as-a-picture but obviously overdubbed Cyd Charisse.

Couple Kelly’s infectious charm with Brigadoon’s relatively solid song cycle—including “Almost Like Being in Love,” “I’ll Go Home With Bonnie Jean,” and “Waitin’ for My Dearie”—and it’s more than enough to transcend the plot holes and artificial sets. You could also do worse than have a skipper in the wheelhouse as polished as Vincente Minnelli (known for directing Gigi, The Band Wagon, An American in Paris and Meet Me in St. Louis).

"Hand Held" doc a hit at St. Xavier

2011-04-11T09:00:00.000-05:00

CineVerse moderator Erik Martin attended the Chicagoland premiere of Hand Held, a new documentary by acclaimed Disney producer Don Hahn, which tells the story of a photojournalist's mission to help thousands of sick and neglected orphans in Romania over the last 21 years.

Martin also had a chance to interview the director and star of the movie.

To read his article, published in OakLawnPatch.com, click here.

Explore the Civil War 150 years later...

2011-04-10T09:00:00.000-05:00

This week marks the 150th anniversary of the beginning of the American Civil War. No better documentary captures the history and the gravitas of that major event than Ken Burns' phenomenal documentary series The Civil War. CineVerse will spotlight episode 1 of the groundbreaking documentary on Wednesday, April 13.

Worth a rental: Killer of Sheep

2011-04-07T09:00:00.002-05:00

by Erik J. Martin

If you’re looking for a picture that’s a complete 180 from MGM fantasyland, Killer of Sheep (1977, directed by Charles Burnett) is a well-spent if all-too-brief 83 minutes. Here we have a warts-and-all, cinema verite style depiction of African American life in the Watts district of L.A. during the seventies. But that one-sentence description doesn’t begin to capture what you’re bound to experience in this hauntingly beautiful movie.

Expect less of a Boyz In the Hood flavored tale than a Rome: Open City-type study of real people in slice-of-life urban situations, evidently influenced by Italian neo-realism filmmakers like Roberto Rossellini and Vittorio De Sica. The main character is Stan, a slaughterhouse employee suffering from existential angst and social disconnection in a mundane, predictable world. This isn’t your conventional narrative with a straightforward plot and series of rising and falling actions built around classic dramatic conflict. Killer of Sheep is more a series of loosely threaded episodes that coalesce to form a skillfully rendered, emotionally expansive impression of an imperfect life among a richly textured culture.

Actually, the fact that you can view this milestone of independent cinema today is something of a minor miracle, considering it was shot for less than $10,000 in the early 1970s and couldn’t be released when it was completed in 1977 because the rights to the music used in the feature weren’t cleared at the time. Thankfully, this fascinating period piece still packs an emotional wallop and hasn’t dated on the viewer impact scale, despite being shelved for 30 years.

Killer of Sheep is definitely worth a rental (it's available on Netflix or at many public libraries) if not a purchase (you can get it through Amazon.com).