Audio-Visual:

About the Audio-Visual Department

Audio Book Downloads

Listening & Viewing Recommendations

Movie Site License

Independent Movie Night

Podcasts

Contact the Audio-Visual Department

Independent Movie Night

INDEPENDENT FILMS NOW BEING SHOWN at the HINGHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY

Always wanted to go to the Sundance Film Festival? The Hingham Public Library is bringing a bit of Sundance to Hingham by showing First Run, Award Winning Independent Films on the 3rd Wednesday evening of each month at 7 p.m. Features in this program include independent and foreign films from top festivals such as Sundance, Cannes and Toronto.

Most of these films are not subject to rating by the MPAA and may portray adult themes. They are not recommended for individuals of age 17 and under without parental permission. See you at the movies.

  We'll supply the popcorn!

NEXT FEATURE to be shown:

August 20, 2008                      THE CATS OF MIRIKITANI”

Shown by permission of the Producer/Director Linda Hattendorf

"Make art not war" is Jimmy Mirikitani's motto. The 80-year-old artist was born in Sacramento, California, raised in Hiroshima, Japan, traveled the U.S. and even cooked for artist Jackson Pollock. But by 2001, Mirikitani was homeless, living on the streets of New York City . As tourists and shoppers hurried past, Mirikitani sat alone on a windy corner in New York 's SoHo , drawing pictures of whimsical cats, bleak internment camps and the angry red flames of the atomic bomb. When local filmmaker Linda Hattendorf stopped to ask about his art, a friendship—detailed in THE CATS OF MIRIKITANI —began that changed both their lives.

In sunshine, rain and snow, Hattendorf returned to document Mirikitani's drawings, trying to decipher the stories behind them. The tales spilled out in a jumble. Childhood picnics in Japan , lost citizenship, Pearl Harbor , thousands of Americans imprisoned in WWII desert camps, a boy who loved cats. As winter warmed to spring and summer, Hattendorf started to piece together the puzzle of Mirikitani's past. One thing is clear from his prolific sidewalk displays: he has survived terrible traumas and is determined to make his history visible through his art.

September 11, 2001 threw Mirikitani once again into a world at war and challenged Hattendorf to move from the role of witness to advocate. During the chaos following the collapse of the World Trade Center , she found herself unable to passively photograph this elderly man coughing in the toxic smoke, and invited him into her small apartment. In this uncharted landscape, the two unlikely roommates navigated the maze of the social welfare system, sought out lost family members and researched the artist's painful past, finding eerie parallels to events unfolding around them in the present.

Blending beauty and humor with tragedy and loss, THE CATS OF MIRIKITANI is an intimate exploration of the lingering wounds of war and the healing power of art.

2006 Audience Award Tribeca Film Festival; Winner at 12 Film Festivals (96 minutes)

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

PREVIOUSLY SHOWN FEATURES now available for loan:

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

July 16, 2008                              Where Do the Children Play?

Elizabeth Goodenough Ph.D, Film Consultant

Where Do the Children Play? is a one-hour documentary for public television that examines how restrictive patterns of sprawl, congestion, and endless suburban development across America are impacting children's mental and physical health and development.

Using the adage that children represent 20 percent of the world's population but 100 percent of its future, the film opens by examining differences between growing up today, with all its inherent obstacles and temptations, and childhood as it was lived 50 years ago.

To understand today's children more acutely, the film team first visited Beaver Island where there are no McDonald's, Burger Kings, Targets or Walmarts. There, children congregate by bike in the downtown area to play. All 85 students in grades one to twelve attend the only school on the island. Most use the computer as a tool for homework, but not for communication. And while they miss a lot of what their counterparts have on the mainland, Beaver Island children are keenly aware of nature and its importance to their lives and their well-being.

Second, the film looked at suburbs today, which have the greatest problems. Explosive growth patterns, massive highways, distant malls, create an isolated environment lacking in sidewalks or places to ride bikes, walk or play. Children tend to be driven indoors to computers and television for recreation, and then driven to a mall or a friend's house by parents. Suburban kids, those ironically with the most opportunity in some areas, suffer the greatest health and psychological problems.

Third, the film team visited the city, which produced the greatest surprises as a place for children: for those not raised in crushing poverty, it still works. And surprisingly well. Despite obstacles and the media stereotypes, old neighborhoods function better than many suburbs, with parks and schools and a sense of community in which parents of different backgrounds often watch out for the safety of children, as they did generations ago when these places were built.

Finally, the film examines the impact of the media and stranger-danger television stories. But it also looks at the role of parents themselves, specifically to the over-programmed child of professionals who run their child's life as if it were a business.

The making of the film began in 2001 with the work of Dr. Elizabeth Goodenough on Secret Spaces of Childhood ( University of Michigan Press , 2003), which the producers developed into an idea for a film. Dr. Goodenough is a scholar, author and activist in the emerging field of children's studies. She has taught English literature at Harvard College , Claremont McKenna College and is currently at the University of Michigan Residential College. She is the founding editor of the Landscapes of Childhood series at Wayne State University Press and has co-edited Infant Tongues: the Voice of the Child in Literature; Under Fire: Childhood in the Shadow of War; and Children's Literature and Violence. Other books include Where Do the Children Play? A Study Guide to the film and the forthcoming A Place for Play .

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

June 18, 2008                    Around the Bend

Written and directed by Jordan Roberts

Four generations of Lair – family men are sharing a reunion of sorts at a fast-food restaurant. “Nice, happy, normal family,” great-grandpa Henry says between bites of fried chicken. But Henry really knows “normal” missed the offramp a long way back.

Henry also knows that a life of bad choices can be made right – one joy, one sorrow, one forgiveness at a time – and he has a quirky plan to make it happen. Christopher Walken, Josh Lucas, Michael Caine and Jonah Bobo are the Lairs in this funny, heartwarming road-trip movie that hopscotches the Southwestern U.S. Laughs, understanding, redemption: the Lairs find them off the beaten path… and Around the Bend .

Rated R for language (83 minutes )

See a brief trailer for Around the Bend

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

May 21, 2008                             ARRANGED

Directed by Diane Crespo and Stefan Schaefer

Rachel is an Orthodox Jew, and Nasira a Muslim of Syrian origin. They are both young teachers at a public school in Brooklyn . They also have something else in common – they are going through the process of getting “arranged marriages” through their respective religious and traditional customs. With both family pressure on the one hand, and the rejection of traditional values by the outside world on the other, Rachel and Nasira will have to rely on each other and their friendship to pull through this difficult time of their lives, striving to be strong women in charge of their own happiness, while keeping their deep religious and cultural convictions.

Film Movement selections are not subject to rating by the MPAA and are not recommended for ages under 17 without parental permission (89 minutes)

See a film on the making of Arranged.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

April 16, 2008                             Touching Lives: Portraits of deaf-blind people

A documentary film by Susan Hajjar ( Hingham resident and co-founder of the Deaf-Blind Contact Center in Boston ) and Myles Gordon (a veteran producer at Channel Five's “Chronicle”)

"Imagine a world without sound... Imagine a world without sight... Now put those two worlds together," begins the documentary "Touching Lives: Portraits of Deaf-Blind People. " Narrated by deaf-blind advocate, Susan Hajjar , who wrote and produced this remarkable film with Myles Gordon, "Touching Lives" invites hearing-sighted audiences to share the experiences of members of Boston's culture of the hearing and vision impaired.”

In a series of interviews, "Touching Lives" captures aspects of the lives of five people who live with Deaf-Blindness. Woven in between their stories is the story of Susan Hajjar's personal connection to the Deaf-Blind world.

"Touching Lives” had its premiere showing at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston on January 9 and has been submitted to the New England Film and Video Festival.

No rating (57 minutes)

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

March 19, 2008                              Gone Baby Gone

Directed by Ben Affleck

Based on the novel by Dennis Lehane

When a little girl is lost on the tough streets of Dorchester in Boston two young private detectives are hired to take a closer look into the mysterious disappearance. They soon unravel a multitude of twists and turns where nothing is what it seems. Ultimately, they will have to risk everything - their relationship, their sanity, and even their lives - to find her.

An edge-of-your seat crime drama that will have you talking long after it's over. With “electrifying and knockout “ performances by Casey Affleck, Morgan Freeman, Amy Ryan, Michelle Monaghan and Ed Harris

Rated R (114 minutes)

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

February 20, 2008                            Danny Deckchair

Directed by Jeff Balsmeyer

An average guy uses gags and pranks to liven up his blue-collar life and accidentally ends up taking off in a deck chair strapped to giant helium-filled balloons while his friends watch helplessly from below. He starts a whole new life in the far-off town where he crash lands…until his old life catches up with him.

Rated PG-13 [100 minutes]

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

January 16, 2008                               Amazing Grace

Directed by Michael Apted           

From the makers of Ray and acclaimed director Michael Apted , comes the inspiring story of how one man's passion and perseverance changed the world.

Based on the true story of William Wilberforce ( Ioan Gruffudd ) , Amazing Grace follows his courageous quest to end the British slave trade. Along the way, Wilberforce meets intense opposition from members of Parliament but his minister, John Newton (Albert Finney), a reformed slave ship captain who penned the beloved hymn “Amazing Grace,” urges him to see the cause through.

Rated PG [118 minutes]

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

December 19, 2007                     Mr. Bean's Holiday

Directed by Steve Bendelack

Rowan Atkinson returns to his iconic role as the comical and endearing Mr. Bean in this outrageous comedy advnture! Mr. Bean can't believe his luck when he wins a camcorder and an all-expense-paid vacation to the French Riviera. But during his train journey to the south of France, he falls face first into a series of mishaps and fortunate coincidences, all of which are caught on camera and far-fetched enough to ensure his own makeshift entry into the Cannes Film Festival! Mr. Bean's Holiday is an irresistible comedy for everyone.

Rated G (90 minutes)

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

October 17, 2007                     Songcatcher

Written and directed by Maggie Greenwald

When musicologist Doctor Lily Penleric , played by Golden Globe Award winner Janet McTeer , is passed over for a prominent teaching position, she leaves the city to visit her sister in the beautifully rugged mountains of Appalachia . It is here she discovers a wellspring of emotional tunes passed down from the original and Scottish immigrants who settled in these parts. Determined to document the history of the songs, she immerses herself in mountain life, falls in love with a local musician, Aidan Quinn, and is profoundly changed by the generosity, strength, and freedom of the fiercely proud mountain people.

Also featuring: Pat Carroll as Viney Butler, Iris DeMent as Rose Gentry, Taj Mahal as Dexter Speaks. 

Rated PG-13 (110 minutes)

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: 

September 19, 2007               Blow Dry

Directed by Paddy Breathnach

Starring Rachel Leigh Cook, Josh Hartnett and Alan Rickman in a great ensemble cast- the Academy Award nominated writer of The Full Monty has crafted a hilarious story about the things everyone wants in life: love, happiness and great hair! As the National Hair Championships descend upon a small town in England, the country's top stylists aren't expecting much from the local talent. But they didn't count on Phil Allen (Rickman), the retired golden boy of the competition circuit, entering the fray! Also starring Natasha Richardson, Rachel Griffiths and supermodel Heidi Klum's laugh along as the locals dazzle the out-of-towners with some hair do's and don'ts!. "Scintillating and heartwarming." -- New Times Los Angeles "It's fun." -- Washington Post

Rated R (90 minutes)

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: 

August 15, 2007              Who the #$&% is Jackson Pollock?

Written and directed by Harry Moses

From Don Hewitt, the creator of 60 Minutes , comes this rollicking, unforgettable true story of an ornery 75-year-old former truck driver who takes on the pretentious world of fine art.

After Teri Horton buys a $5 painting at a thrift store, a friend suggests that it could be an authentic Jackson Pollock worth up to $50 million dollars. Now, nothing's going to stop Teri – and her team of lawyers and forensics experts – from proving to the impenetrable art world that this trash –talking trucker is actually the extremely wealthy owner of a genuine Pollock!

Rated PG-13 (74 minutes)

Also...

Short Special (7 minute)“Crossroads”

filmed in Wompatuck State Park starring Hingham 's own Joseph Siriani (also currently appearing in Walt Disney's “ Underdog ”)

Written, Directed and shown by permission of Frank Kerr

Shown at the Rhode Island International Film Festival for independent film and video, August 7-12-07

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

July 18, 2007                The Astronaut Farmer

Directed by Michael Polish

All systems are “Go” for Charles Farmer. He's faced bank foreclosure, neighborhood naysayers and a government alarmed by his huge purchase of high-grade fuel, but now he's ready to blast into space inside the homemade rocket he built in his barn. Just be home in time for dinner, Charlie.

Billy Bob Thornton portrays Charlie in this charmer about chasing dreams…and about what it means to be a family. 10,000 pounds of rocket fuel alone can't lift Charlie into the heavens. He needs a launch/recovery crew, and he has one of the best: his wife (Virginia Madsen) and children, dreamers all. They have liftoff. Our spirits have uplift. Gravity cannot hold down our dreams.

The Astronaut Farmer is a heartwarming and fun story about the tenacity it takes to see a dream through.

Rated PG (104 minutes)

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

June 20, 2007                     Leonard Cohen: I'm your man

Directed by Lian Lunson

(SCREENED AT THE 2006 SUNDANCE FILM FESTIVAL)

The life and work of Leonard Cohen is celebrated in “ Leonard Cohen: I'm your man .” The documentary also includes performances and interviews by artists that Cohen has inspired, including U2, Beth Orton, Jarvis Cocker, Rufus Wainwright, and more.

Sure to please both die-hard Cohen fans and the newly initiated, this film is a beautiful record of captivating music and an intimate portrait of a truly singular artist – poet, songwriter, cultural icon.

"Mesmerizing! Movingly captures Leonard Cohen's lifelong search for truth and beauty and his translation of it into song." -- USA Today

Rated PG-13 [103 minutes]

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: 

May 16, 2007          The Queen

Directed by Stephen Frears

An intimate, moving portrait of Queen Elizabeth and Tony Blair following the untimely death of Princess Diana. The Queen's restrained reaction causes a public relations debacle that Prime Minister Blair must defuse. The two struggle to reach a compromise between what was a private tragedy for the Royal family and the public's demand for an open display of mourning.

Academy Award Best Actress Helen Mirren

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: 

April 18, 2007    Step Up

Directed by Anne Fletcher   Rated PG-13 [103 minutes]   

Incredible dancing and awesome music fuel Step Up , the exhilarating and inspiring movie starring Channing Tatum ( She's The Man, Coach Carter ) who sizzles as Tyler Gage, a rough and streetwise hunk with raw talent. When Tyler finds himself doing community service at a school for the performing arts, he also finds Nora, a beautiful and privileged classically trained dancer who's searching for a temporary replacement for her injured dance partner. Spying Tyler 's smooth moves, Nora decides to take a chance on him. But as they begin training, tension builds, tempers flare and the differences in their backgrounds explode – igniting this electrifying tale about not giving up on your dreams.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: 

March 21, 2007 “The Heart of the Game”  

Directed by Ward Serrill    Rated PG [103 minutes]

Go courtside for a true-life rush like no other in this passionate and inspirational documentary in the same powerful tradition as “Hoop Dreams.” Director Ward Serrill brings the camera up close and personal to capture Roosevelt Roughriders girl's basketball team during six turbulent seasons, taking us far beyond the court. You'll meet Bill Resler , the tax professor turned hard-driving unorthodox coach who turns the team around – and Darnellia Russell, the talented inner-city tough girl who battles off-court threats to regain eligibility. You'll meet a real team full of drive, toughness and the unbridled desire to make history.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

February 21, 2007 “Broken Bridges”                                     

Directed by Steven Goldman     Rated PG-13 [104 minutes]

When a down and out country music singer (Toby Keith) is forced to face his past after the death of his brother, he returns home to find his high school sweetheart (Kelly Preston) and a 16-year-old daughter (Lindsey Hauebruaryn) he's never met. Broken Bridges takes you back to small town America where important things matter like family, country and duty, and shows that sometimes by going back, you really can move forward.

Burt Reynolds co-stars as the gruff patriarch of Preston 's small town family, while Tess Harper plays her nurturing mother. Willie Nelson and Anna Maria Horsford round out this truly diverse ensemble cast.

Broken Bridges also features a soundtrack full of memorable songs and marks Toby Keith's debut in a feature film lead role.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: 

January 17, 2007: "Invincible"

Directed by Ericson Core     Rated PG [104 minutes]

Invincible is the inspiring true story of Vince Papale, an ordinary guy who, against extraordinary odds, gets a one-in-a-gazillion shot at living every sports fan's wildest fantasy. Like the city he lives in and his beloved hometown NFL team, the down-and-out Vince (Mark Wahlberg) has seen better days. But then the Philadelphia Eagles' new coach Dick Vermeil (Greg Kinnear) calls an unprecedented open tryout, and the 30-year-old bartender who never played college ball makes the cut. Now Vince needs every bit of his gritty, never-say-die attitude and enormous heart to survive in the high-stakes world of professional football. Heartfelt and triumphant, and filled with body-slamming NFL football action, Invincible will have you on your feet cheering for the scrappy underdog who helped his team rediscover its winning spirit, and in the process rallied a city when it needed it most.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: 

December 20, 2006: "An Inconvenient Truth"

Directed by Davis Guggenheim Rated PG [96 minutes]

Former Vice President Al Gore presents an eye-opening and compelling view of the future of our planet – and our civilization – in the must-see documentary of the year. This is a wake-up call that cuts through myths and misconceptions to deliver the message that global warming is a real and present danger. An Inconvenient Truth brings home Gore's persuasive argument that we must act now to save the earth. Each and every one of us can make changes in the way in which we live our lives and become part of the solution.

“In 39 years, I have never written these words in a movie review, but here they are. You owe it to yourself to see this film.” – Roger Ebert, Chicago Sun-Times

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: 

November 15, 2006:"Kinky Boots"

Directed by Julian Jarrold  English (107 minutes)

Inspired by a hilarious true story, this refreshing, feel-good comedy comes from the  hit-making team that brought you Calendar Girls ! For generations, the Price family has made very sensible, very conservative shoes for men. But to save the business from imminent bankruptcy, young Charlie Price turns to an unlikely new creative consultant: a sassy cross-dressing cabaret singer whose outrageous style and wild designs are a breath of fresh air in the stuffy old factory! Fun and original, it's a must-have movie that proves the best way to fit in is to stand out!

"Two thumbs up!" -- Ebert & Roeper

"An irresistible crowd-pleaser!" -- Glamour

"Quite enjoyable, effortlessly well-done on every level..." -- Chicago Tribune

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: 

October 18, 2006: "The Miracle Match"

also known as “The Game of Their Lives”

Directed by David Anspaugh [ Hoosiers]  English 101 minutes

In 1950, most Americans had only a passing familiarity with the game of soccer, even though it was the world's most popular sport, and few athletes in the United States played the game with any particular degree of expertise. However, when an invitation was extended to the United States to participate in the World Cup tournament in Brazil — the international soccer championship held every four years — Bill Jeffrey was determined that America participate. In less than two weeks, Jeffrey assembled a team comprised mostly of players from St. Louis (where soccer had developed a small but loyal following) and the East Coast (where the game gained a foothold on college campuses), with immigrants from Haiti, Portugal, and Scotland filling out the ranks. Against all odds, the Americans not only made it to the World Cup games, but defeated the British team (favored by many to win the championship) in the greatest upset of the 1950 games. The Miracle Match is a sports drama based on the remarkable true story of the 1950 United States team, featuring John Rhys-Davies as Bill Jeffrey, Wes Bentley as team leader Walter Bahr, Gerard Butler as goalie Frank Borghi , Jimmy Jean-Louis as Joe Gaetiens , a dishwasher born in Haiti who found his way onto the team, and Patrick Stewart as a journalist covering the games.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

September 20, 2006: " Looking for Comedy in the Muslim World"

Written & Directed by Albert Brooks    Rated PG-13 (98 minutes)

A nation called out in its time of need. Albert Brooks answered. Yes, he would venture into India and Pakistan on a top assignment for the USA . Yes, he would see if comedy could achieve what diplomacy and power has not - make the region's 300-million Muslims like us. And yes, he ignites war in the process.

Acclaimed Filmmaker Brooks, writes and directs this observant and slyly hilarious culture clash. Is laughter the best medicine for an ailing world? Find out as Brooks pokes fun at his own preconceived notions in events ranging from a fish-out-of-Ganges standup gig to a meeting with Al- Jazeera honchos to a blindfolded trip into the unknown territory of Pakistani comedians.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

August 16, 2006: "The Station Agent"  Directed by Tom McCarthy

Rated R (89 minutes)

The Station Agent stars Emmy Award winner Patricia Clarkson (TV's Six Feet Under, Far From Heaven ), Peter Dinklage ( Elf ) and Bobby Cannavale (TV's 24, Third Watch ) in a comedy about friendship that will have you smiling long after the final credits. Fin McBride (Dinklage), a loner with a passion for trains, inherits an abandoned train station in the middle of nowhere - a place that suits him just fine because all he wants is o be alone. But that is not to be. Soon after moving in, he discovers his isolated depot is more like Grand Central Station. There's Olivia (Clarkson), a distracted and troubled artist, and Joe (Cannavale), a friendly Cuban with an insatiable hunger for conversation. With absolutely nothing in common, they find their isolated lives coming together in a friendship none of them could foresee.

Winner of 2003 Sundance Festival awards

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

July 19, 2006 : "On a Clear Day".    Directed by Gaby Dellal

Rated PG-13 (99 Minutes)    

It's the ultimate personal challenge - swimming the English Channel . But as Frank Redmond (Peter Mullan, Braveheart , Trainspotting) plunges headlong into his new life, his friends get swept up in his quest, filling his training with laughter and camaraderie as he repares for the most extraordinary test of human endurance.

On a Clear Day is an inspirational and heartwarming story of family, friends and one amazing adventure that will stay with you forever.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

JUNE 21, 2006 : "The Wild Parrots of Telegraph Hill".   Directed by Judy Irving

The film's endearing guide is Mark Bittner, a local bohemian, but the cast members, a rambunctious flock of urban parrots, are the true stars. The film follows the ups-and-downs of these wild birds within the green niches of San Francisco as Bittner befriends, feeds and names the members of the flock. Along the way, we meet many unforgettable characters. Among them are Connor, the grouchy yet lovable outcast of the flock, crying for a mate but luckless in his pursuits, and "the lovers," Picasso and Sophie, inseparable until Sophie is forced into mourning when Picasso disappears. More than a mere birdwatcher, Bittner finds solace in his immersion with these strikingly beautiful creatures - but how will he cope when he's evicted from his sanctuary and forced to live away from the parrots?

Packed with romance, comedy and a surprise ending that "makes you want to fly out of the theater" (San Jose Mercury News) , The Wild Parrots Of Telegraph Hill shows just how amazingly similar the human and animal worlds can be.

Showing by permission of Ken at Shadow Distribution, Judy Irving and Mark Bittner with the request to provide the following information: to order this DVD/VHS and other items that will help out the nonprofit organization making this film, go to the Pelican Media web site store: www.pelicanmedia.org/store.htm.

Read more about Mark Bittner and the wild parrots of Telegraph Hill in the San Francisco Chronicle.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

May 17, 2006 An Unfinished Life.  Directed by Lasse Hallstrom

Rated PG13 (108 minutes)

Einar Gilkyson (Robert Redford) is a crusty old rancher who does what he can to hold onto his Wyoming ranch. It's been a struggle for years; his son was killed in a car crash, his wife left him, and his longtime friend and helper Mitch Bradley (Morgan Freeman) was recently mauled by a bear. Now, Einar has to care for Mitch.

Jean and her daughter, Griff, have to leave Jean's current abusive boyfriend. The only place they can go is the ranch of Griff's grandfather, Einar, who only learns of his granddaughter's existence upon their arrival, opening the way for unexpected connection, adventure, risk, forgiveness and redemption.

Also starring, Jennifer Lopez, Josh Lucas, Camryn Manheim, Damian Lewis and introducing Becca Gardner

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

April 19, 2006 The Prize Winner of Defiance, Ohio  Directed by Jane Anderson

Rated PG-13 (108 minutes)

Anything is possible with a little laughter and a lot of heart in this incredible true story of an extraordinary woman who raised 10 kids on 25 words or less. Julianne Moore stars as Evelyn Ryan, a devoted housewife and mother, who uses her knack for words to win thousands of dollars in "jingle contests" to keep her family together. Also starring Woody Harrelson, this engaging film mixed with comedy and drama celebrates the power of a winning spirit.  

Rated PG-13 (99 minutes)

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

March 15, 2006 Le Grand Voyage Directed by Ismael Ferroukhi

A few weeks before his college entrance exams, Reda (Nicolas Cazale ), a young man who lives in the south of France , finds himself obligated to drive his father to Mecca . The wide cultural and generational gap between the two is worsened by their lack of communication. Reda finds it hard to accommodate his father, who demands respect for himself and his pilgrimage. From France , through Italy , Serbia , Turkey , Syria , Jordan to Saudi Arabia , the two embark on a round trip that will change their lives.

Arabic and French with English subtitles ( 108 minutes) 

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

February 15, 2006  Bride and Prejudice Directed by Gurinder Chadha

The very British sensibilities of Jane Austen are introduced to the exotic flavors of the Bollywood musical in this romantic comedy with songs from the director of Bend It Like Beckham , Gurinder Chadha . Lalita Bakshi ( Aishwarya Rai ) is the lovely and eligible daughter of her socially ambitious mother and father ( Nadira Babbar and Anupam Kher ). Mother and father want to be sure that Lalita , the most beautiful of their four daughters, settles down with a man worthy of her, but she has proven resistant to matchmaking, announcing that she will choose her own husband, and will choose him for love. While mother is keen on the profoundly annoying Kholi ( Nitin Chandra Ganatra ), Lalita has had her head turned by a handsome vagabond from England , Johnny Wickham ( Daniel Gilles ). But while attending the wedding of a friend, Lalita meets Will Darcy ( Martin Henderson ), a college buddy of family friend Raj ( Naveen Andrews ) who is the son of a wealthy hotel magnate. Lalita finds that Will makes a strong impression on her - she can't stand him, but she also can't get him out of her mind. Will feels the same way about her, and as they inadvertently chase one another over three continents, will morbid fascination grow into true love? Bride and Prejudice marked the first English-speaking role for Aishwarya Rai , who had firmly established herself as India 's leading female star when this film was made.

English ( 111 minutes) Musical romantic comedy

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

January 18, 2006 Martin Luther King: a commemorative collection documentary

This 55 minute documentary was made possible by the Martin Luther King,Jr. Foundation for Non-violent Social Change, Inc. It includes historical film footage of the: Montgomery Bus Boycott,1956; the Birmingham campaign,1963; the Selma campaign, 1965; Bill Cosby and Dick Gregory at Morehouse; Martin Luthre king,Jr. receiving the Nobel Peace Prize, 1964; and countless recollections of those who knew him best.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

December 21, 2005   March of the Penguins  Directed by Luc Jacquet

Every year, thousands of emperor penguins make an astonishing journey to breed their young. They are birds, but they do not fly. They are aquatic animals, but this time they will not swim. Instead, they walk - marching day and night in single file 70 miles into the darkest, driest and coldest climate on Earth.

Narrated by Morgan Freeman, "March of the Penguins" , is an amazing, awe-inspiring, all-ages, true-life tale touched with humor and alive with thrills. Breathtaking photography captures the transcendent beauty and staggering you-are-there drama of devoted parent penguins who, in the face of the fierce polar winter, take turns guarding their egg and trekking to the ocean in search of food. Predators hunt them, storms lash them, but the safety of their adorable, fuzzy chicks makes it all worthwhile. So follow the leader.to adventure! Rated G [80 minutes]

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

November 16, 2005  Campfire      Directed by Joseph Cedar

The year is 1981, Rachel Gerlik, a 42 year-old widowed mother of two teenage daughters, wants to join the founding group of a new settlement in the West Bank. The settlement's acceptance committee won't approve her unless she demonstrates that she and her daughters can meet the group's religious and ideological standards. When her youngest daughter is accused of seducing some boys from her youth movement, Rachel is forced to weigh her allegiances. Only Yossi, a lonely bachelor, can show Rachel that living as an outcast is not as bad as it seems. 96 minutes; Hebrew with English subtitles

Israel's selection for Best Foreign Film, 2005 Academy Awards

 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

October 19, 2005  Einstein's Wife    Directed by Nicola Woolmington

When Albert Einstein died in 1955 he left behind a remarkable scientific legacy, and an extraordinary secret. In 1986 love letters were discovered which revealed a marriage hidden in the shadows for more than 30 years. Before moving to America in 1933 with his second wife and first cousin Elsa, Einstein had married his university sweetheart and scientific collaborator Mileva Maric.

Einstein, contrary to popular belief, did not work alone in the years leading to the great scientific achievements of 1905. Maric mathematician, collaborated with him on three famous works: Brownian Motion, Special Relativity Theory and Photoelectric Effect, which won the Nobel Prize for physics in 1921.

Until now this collaboration was erased from history. Drawing on long-hidden documents, love letters and biographies "Einstein's wife" pieces together a partnership of extraordinary passion and intellect that led to one of the greatest theoretical breakthroughs in the twentieth century.

60 minutes; English language

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

September 21, 2005   Let the church say amen   Directed by David Petersen

Blocks away from the White House and the Capitol stands a tiny storefront church, endeavoring to combat the street violence, unemployment, and homelessness that threaten American families living in poverty. Over the course of a year, this feature-length documentary by Academy Award nominated director David Petersen follows four church members as they work to fulfill their dreams for a better life.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

AUGUST 17, 2005 “Seducing Dr. Lewis” Directed by Jean-Francois Pouliot

Jean-Francois Pouliot’s Sundance Film Festival award-winning film is the beguiling story of a ragtag community on a tiny, impoverished island who must persuade a young Montreal-based doctor to live in their town in order to get a much needed factory.

And thus the seduction of the young Doctor Lewis (David Boutin) begins, as the entire village works to convince a big-city, cosmopolitan doctor that this isolated village is the ideal place to live. From pretending to love cricket to preparing a “Festival de Beef Stroganoff” (his favorite dish), the villagers will do anything they can to keep Dr. Lewis. However, as Dr. Lewis begins to fall under their spell, will they end up going too far?

French with English subtitles, Comedy, Not Rated (109 minutes)

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

July 20, 2005 “Camp” Directed by Todd Graff

An extremely talented young cast shines in this “energetic musical romp” (Los Angeles Times) about a drama camp where the outcasts of today hone their skills to become the stars of tomorrow! Packed with romance, laughs and “genuine show stopping musical numbers” (The Washington Post), “a blast of exuberant fun” (Rolling Stone)!

Every summer, talented kids with big voices and even bigger dreams flock to Camp Ovation. But this year, a sexy new guy, Vlad, is not only stealing the show…he’s stealing the heart of every girl he encounters. And as the biggest day of camp approaches, the young performers must overcome backstabbing, unrequited love and Vlad’s unpredictable libido to pull off the greatest show of their lives!

“A delirious musical comedy romp. You have to love it!” The New York Times
“Funny, touching and vital!” Rolling Stone

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

June 15, 2005 “Pop & me” Directed by Chris Roe
Richard Roe and his son Chris embark on a 26-country journey around the world. While dealing with the strain this 6-month trek brought to their own relationship, the pair listens with tears in their eyes while a father and son in war torn Kashmir talk about their love for each other, and interviews fifth and sixth generation father and son gondoliers in Venice’s watery passages. In Monaco, Julian Lennon confides what it was like to be the son of a Beatle. The Roe’s on-the-road footage is interspersed with their home movies from the ‘70s, making this a heartfelt exploration of the bonds fathers and sons share.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

May 18, 2005 : “Casa de los babys” Directed by John Sayles
Acclaimed filmmaker John Sayles captures six American women at one of the most emotionally charged moments of their lives – each on the verge of adopting a baby – in this “compelling” (Chicago Tribune) drama set against the backdrop of a Latin American town. Featuring an “inspired” (The Miami Herald) all-star cast: Maggie Gyllenhaal, Daryl Hannah, Marcia Gay Harden, Susan Lynch, Mary Steenburgen and Lili Taylor,
this poignant look at fate, maternity and clashing cultures is “as rich in ideas as it is in fine acting” (L.A. Daily News),

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

April 20, 2005 : “Wilby Wonderful” Directed by Daniel MacIvor
Wilby Wonderful is a bittersweet comedy about the difference a day makes. Over the course of twenty-four hours, the residents of the tiny island town of Wilby try to maintain business as usual in the face of very unusual business.
Wilby Wonderful features a stellar ensemble of some of Canada’s most talented performers : James Allodi, Maury Chaykin, Paul Gross, Rebecca Jenkins, Sandra Oh, Ellen Page and Callum Keith Rennie.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

March 16,2005: “Marion Bridge” Directed by Wiebke von Carolsfeld
In the midst of struggling to overcome her self-destructive behavior, the youngest of three sisters, Agnes (Molly Parker), returns to her hometown in Nova Scotia determined to confront the past. Her arrival sets in motion a chain of events that allows a family of women to re-connect with the world and one another.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

February 16, 2005: “Osama” Directed by Siddiq Barmak
This powerful and remarkable drama chronicles the true story of a young girl in Taliban-ruled Afghanistan who must disguise herself as a boy to save her family from starvation. The first feature film made in Afghanistan in the post-Taliban era.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

January 19, 2005: “Inch’ Allah Dimanche” Directed by Yamina Benguigui
Following World War II, France attempted to replenish its weakened workforce by recruiting men from North Africa. In the mid-1970s the French government relaxed its immigration policy to allow the families of Algerian men to join them. “Inch’ Allah Dimanche” provides us with a deeply moving memoir of the sense of isolation and vulnerability that the immigrant family experienced upon arrival in France at the time when racial integration was virtually non-existent.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

December 15, 2004: “The Republic of Love” Directed by Deepa Mehta
Based on a novel by the Pulitzer prize-winning author, Carol Shields, "The Republic of Love", is a romantic comedy about the barriers facing lovers in the 21st century. Tom is a charismatic late-night radio talk show host whose unconventional upbringing has made him a little too quick to fall in love. Fay is an academic whose expectations are impossibly high as a result of the living perfection that is her parents' marriage. The characters connect in a maze of malls, condos and family homes, underpinning the idea that 'geography is destiny' and that each of us has our own 'republic', where lives intersect
Canada in English (approximately 96 minutes)
This movie is not subject to rating by the MPAA. The film is not recommended for ages under 17 without parental permission.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

November 17, 2004: “Buddy” Directed by Morten Tyldum
Kristoffer’s love life is on the rocks. But what can you expect from a guy who likes to videotape himself and his friends pulling outrageous stunts? When Kristoffer’s video diary winds up at a popular TV show it’s not just his love life that turns upside down. A vibrant young cast explores the true meaning of friendship and love in a heart-warming story about high jinks, crazy roommates and reality television.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

October 20, 2004: “Morlang” Directed by Tjebbo Penning
Julius Morlang is a successful artist. For fifteen years, he has been married to Ellen, his muse and personal manager. When Ellen confesses to a brief affair with a rival up-and-coming artist, Morlang retreats into the arms of a young admirer. An unexpected and devastating development strains Julius and Ellen’s relationship even more. Loosely based on a true story, Morlang is a chilling, psychological drama about jealousy, betrayal and revenge.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

September 15, 2004: “The Rage in Placid Lake” Directed by Tony McNamara
Placid Lake (Ben Lee) has always been different. His crayon-eating, scientific genius of a best friend, Gemma (Rose Byrne), also has a few issues with ‘blending in’. As an odd fish in a sea of mediocrity, his brilliant ideas are bound to get him into more trouble than success. So when he finds himself in a tight spot with the school bullies who have been after him all his life, Placid decides to make a bid for the elusive normal life. To his parents’ horror, he gets a normal job. Soon he is embracing conformity on the fast track to corporate success. But can Placid finally retire his rage in the pursuit of normalcy? Or will his plan backfire?

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

August 18, 2004: “Carol’s Journey” Directed by Imanol Uribe
Carol, a twelve-year-old Spanish-American girl from New York, travels with her mother to Spain in the spring of 1938, at the height of the Civil War. Separated from her beloved father, Carol arrives in her mother’s home village and transforms the secretive family environment. Her innocence and rebellious nature drive her at first to reject a world that is at once new and foreign. But she soon journeys into adulthood through a friendship with Maruja, the village teacher, and a young local boy, Tomiche.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

July 21, 2004: “The Middle of the World” Directed by Vicente Amorim
Romao, illiterate and unemployed, feels destiny drawing him on an odyssey to Rio de Janeiro in pursuit of a job and a decent life. Based on a true story, The Middle of the World follows a family of seven on a journey 2000 miles across the hinterlands of Brazil on bicycles. Along the way, director Vicente Amorim beautifuuly explores the inner dynamics of a family facing a great challenge. The Middle of the World is an unimaginable road movie, both graceful and tender, about having the courage to pursue your dreams.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

June 16, 2004: “Long life, happiness and prosperity” Directed by Mina Shum
Set against a background of richly drawn characters, each of whom are exploring their own fate and destiny, this film focuses on the story of a young divorced mother raising her 12-year-old daughter, Mindy. When Mindy sets her sights on finding her mother a new boyfriend by using ancient Chinese magic, the results are unexpected, hysterically funny and heartwarming.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

May 19, 2004: “OT: Our Town” Directed by Scott Hamilton Kennedy
At Dominquez High School in Compton, California, basketball is valued above all else. The end of the year is marked by a traditional cycle of proms, riots and graduation. And there hasn’t been a play at the school in over twenty years. In an effort to make a change, English teacher Catherine Borek attempts to mount a theatrical production of Thornton Wilder’s Our Town, the classic American play about the small town of Grover’s Corner, New Hampshire. In the process she takes her fledgling students on a journey of self-discovery. With no budget and no stage, Ms. Borek chooses Our Town for its universal and timeless themes of community, family, love and loss, and life and death, with the hope that her students might see themselves reflected in the roles they play.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

April, 21, 2004: “Ginger and Cinnamon” Directed by Daniele Luchetti
While vacationing on the Greek “Isle of Love”, the repressed 30-year-old Stefania reluctantly plays chaperone to her precocious 15-year-old niece, Meggy. Unbeknownst to Stefania, Meggy plans to lose her virginity before the summer is over. Amidst a mélange of sun rash, broken diets, nervous girls, sleeping bags, orgasms, 80s music, and a little ginger and cinnamon, the two women discover themselves and their sexuality.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

March 17, 2004 Premiere Feature : “The Party’s Over”
Directed by Rebecca Chaiklin and Donovan Leitch
The Party’s Over examines how the American political process addresses, and often fails to address, the country’s most pressing issues. The film follows Philip Seymour Hoffman as a concerned citizen on an uncensored journey of politics in America. A follow-up to the critically acclaimed Last Party from 1993 starring Robert Downey Jr., the film contains behind-the-scenes footage of activists, politicians and celebrities from Susan Sarandon to Charlton Heston, from Jesse Jackson to Pat Robertson, from Eddie Vedder to Willie Nelson and from Rudy Giuliani to Michael Moore.