The Petaluma Cinema Series returns for another semester with a host of new and fantastic independent films to watch and learn about.
Series organizer Mike Traina promises an exciting set of films this semester with Oscar-nominated films included in the lineup. “THEEB,” nominated for best foreign language film, will show Feb. 24 and tells the story of a Bedouin boy as he travels across the Wadi Rum desert in WWI era Middle East.
“Room,” nominated for best adapted screenplay will show April 27. It tells the sad tale of a child raised in captivity, a coming-of-age story that showcases human development despite extreme circumstances.
This year’s Cinema Series also showcases a number of directors as they guide students through their films from their point of view. Tom Donahue visits during the pre-film lecture at 6 p.m. March 16 in the Carole L. Ellis Auditorium to answer audience questions before and after the screening of his film “Thank You For Your Service.” This is within the same few weeks as the film’s official release, giving viewers a unique opportunity to view it for the first time.
Justin Lerner will visit along with his film “The Automatic Hate.” Traina hopes Lerner will also participate in the film festival later in the year to lead workshops for students.
“The idea behind the Cinema Series is to build a community around the art of cinema,” Traina said.
Petaluma has a thrilling series of films coming your way and you’d be a fool to miss them. Show up, learn something, enjoy yourself and most importantly, support your community.
Feb. 24
THEEB: Naji Abu Nowar, 2015, United Arab Emirates/Jordan
March 2
After the Wedding: Susanne Bier, 2006, Denmark
March 9
Strangers on a Train: Alfred Hitchcock, 1951, USA
March 16
Thank You For Your Service: Tom Donahue, 2015, USA
March 30
Slow West: John Maclean, 2015, U.K.
April 6
Mulholland Drive: David Lynch, 2001, USA
April 13
Blow Out: Brian De Palma, 1981, USA
April 20
A Pigeon Sat on a Branch Reflecting on Existence: Roy Andersson, 2015, Sweden
April 27
Room: Lenny Abrahamson, 2015, USA
May 11
Anomalisa: Charlie Kaufman, 2015, USA
May 18
Star Wars: The Force Awakens: J.J. Abrams, 2016, USA
