Previous Screenings

2024 Term 1

This term our movies are all concerning various aspects of the Cold War - the intense period of competition and confrontation between the USA and the USSR. But it’s not all serious...

THE DEATH OF STALIN   2017   106mins

Moscow, 1953: Stalin drops dead and his parasitic cronies square off in a frantic power struggle to be the next Soviet leader. The contenders: dweeby Malenkov (Jeffrey Tambor), the wily Khrushchev (Steve Buscemi) and the ruthless secret police chief Beria (Simon Russell Beale). “A comedy of terrors” from Armando Iannucci (“The Thick of It”, “In the Loop”).

THE FALCON AND THE SNOWMAN   1984   131mins

Based on the true story of two all-American boys - Christopher Boyce (Timothy Hutton), who works for a US military intelligence contractor and his friend Andrew Daulton Lee (Sean Penn), an ambitious drug dealer. Boyce, disillusioned when he discovers the US lies to its allies (notably Australia) and dirty tricks worldwide, hatches a plan with Lee for revenge: sell American secrets to the Russians! (Dir: John Schlesinger)

DR STRANGELOVE   1963   90mins

Stanley Kubrick’s Kennedy-era comedy centring on the events set in train when an unhinged General Jack D Ripper orders a nuclear attack on the USSR. Peter Sellers, George C. Scott and Sterling Hayden star. While criticised in its day as implausible, this scenario turned out to be far from an impossibility. Some characters were loosely based on real people! Still a terrifying tale!

THIRTEEN DAYS   2000   140mins

A political thriller on the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962, when the world teetered on the brink of nuclear war. Based heavily on White House tapes of the deliberations that surrounded this emergency, the contrast between the Gung-ho military and the more considered viewpoints is exposeded. Kevin Costner, Bruce Greenwood and Stephen Culp play the “cool heads in the room” (White House advisor Daniel O’Donnell, JFK and RFK.) (Dir: Roger Donaldson)

2024 Term 2

TWO HANDS   1999   93mins

Classic Aussie crime-comedy starring Heath Ledger, Rose Byrne and Bryan Brown with superb support by the likes of David Field and Tom Long. Jimmy (Ledger) embarks upon work with Sydney’s criminal underworld but it all turns pear-shaped when some street kids rip off the loot he was meant to deliver. To pay back his boss Pando (Brown) and save his own skin Jimmy dives deeper into the criminal life…

Winner of five AFI awards including Best Picture. Director: Gregor Jordan.

A BEAUTIFUL DAY IN THE NEIGHBOURHOOD   2019   109mins

In this biographical drama Tom Hanks plays Fred Rogers – author, minister and pre-school TV host - in a timely story of kindness triumphing over cynicism. Based on a true story of the real-life friendship between Rogers and journalist Lloyd Vogel. After a jaded magazine writer (Matthew Rhys) is assigned to profile Mr Rogers, he overcomes his scepticism, learning about empathy, kindness, and decency from America's most beloved neighbour. Director: Marielle Heller.

THE PARTY  1968  99mins

When bungling actor Hrundi V. Bakshi (Peter Sellers) is accidentally invited to a party by the Hollywood producer whose epic he has single-handedly ruined, the stage is set for this timeless “fish-out-of-water” comedy. Hrundi gets up close and personal with Tinseltown’s affectations and indulgence, but out of the ensuing chaos, Hrundi’s basic decency carries the day. Also starring Claudine Longet, this masterpiece was written, directed and produced by Blake Edwards (Breakfast at Tiffanys, The Great Race, The Pink Panther).

OPPENHEIMER   2023   180mins

An epic biographical thriller following the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the American theoretical physicist instrumental in developing the atomic bomb during WWII, from his early studies, to his direction of the Los Alamos Laboratory and his eventual fall from grace in 1954 amid the prevailing security paranoia. Cillian Murphy stars as Oppenheimer, supported by Matt Damon, Robert Downey Jr and Emily Blunt. Written, directed and co-produced by Christopher Nolan, the film garnered seven Academy Awards this year.

2024 Term 3

Another mixed bag of fine movies this term, again screening in four FORTNIGHTLY sessions.

IN THE HEART OF THE SEA  2015  117mins

A historical adventure based on the voyage of the ill-fated Nantucket whaleship Essex, sunk in 1820 when it was rammed by a whale, and the subsequent trials of the handful of survivors (in three whaleboats) as they battled storms, starvation and despair. Starring Chris Hemsworth, Cilian Murphy, Brendan Gleeson and Ben Whishaw. Directed by the multi-award winning Ron Howard (Apollo 13, A Beautiful Mind, Frost/Nixon.)

The inspiration for Herman Melville’s Moby Dick.

LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE  2006  98mins

The Hoovers are a dysfunctional American family on the edge, but when 7 year old Olive wins a spot in a child beauty pageant in far-off California the stage is set for a tragi-comic road trip like no other. Forced to spend days together – in a Kombi van that had seen better days – the group finally arrives at the contest. But would it all be worth it? A fine ensemble cast including Greg Kinnear, Toni Colette, Steve Carell and Alan Arkin. Heartwarming!!

MON ONCLE (My Uncle) 1958 115mins

Unemployed M. Hulot (Jacques Tati), living in a run-down Parisian district is adored by his nephew Gerard who is bored living with his consumerist parents in their ultra-modern house. But Gerard’s parents have plans for M. Hulot to join the modern world… As a director Mon Oncle brought Tati international attention with an Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film and a Special Award at Cannes. A charming comedy.

THE GOOD SHEPHERD 2006 160mins

Edward Wilson loves America and will sacrifice everything he loves to protect it but as one of the covert founders of the CIA, his youthful idealism is slowly eroded by his growing suspicion of the people around him. Everyone has secrets...but will Edward’s destroy him? A gripping spy drama announcing Robert de Niro’s directorial debut with an all-star cast including Matt Damon, Angelina Jolie, Robert de Niro, Alec Baldwin, Michael Gambon, William Hurt and Billy Crudup.

2024 Term 4

LOOK BOTH WAYS   2005   100mins

This critically acclaimed Australian film is an innovative mix of animation and live action. Set over a scorchingly hot weekend, several people dealing with unexpected events find their lives intersecting, in the wake of a tragedy. The convergence of their paths creates an intriguing picture; intimate, universal and uplifting. Starring William McGuiness, Justine Clarke and Anthony Hayes. Directed by Sarah Watts. Multiple awards including AFI Best Picture.

THREE BILLBOARDS OUTSIDE EBBING, MISSOURI   2017   110mins

Crime-drama revolving around Mildred Hayes (Francis McDormand), a Missouri woman who rents three billboards to draw attention to the lack of progress in the case of the rape and murder of her daughter. Woody Harrelson (as the police chief) and Sam Rockwell (as a volatile deputy) round out the ensemble cast. Many awards including two Oscars.

BIG FISH   2004   120mins

Gothic fantasy drama directed by Tim Burton (Beetlejuice, Edward Scissorhands). Will Bloom returns home to care for his dying father, who throughout his life told fantastical stories involving (such things as) giants, witches and...a huge fish. After he passes away, Will sets out to find the truth about the father he never truly knew. Starring Billy Crudup, Ewan Mcgregor, Albert Finney, Jessica Lange, Helena Bonham-Carter and a fine supporting cast.

THE GOOD LIAR   2019   109mins

A crime thriller directed by Bill Condon. Roy Courtnay (Ian McKellen) is an ageing con artist who meets Betty McLeish (Helen Mirren), a wealthy widow, on an internet dating site. Courtnay concocts an elaborate scheme to first wheedle himself into his mark’s affections and then to fleece her of everything she owns. But all is not as it seems. The execution of his plan proceeds flawlessly...until it doesn’t!

2025 Term 1

Four very different films this term: comedy, science fiction, social realism and autobiography.

O BROTHER, WHERE ART THOU?   2005   107mins

The Coen brothers’ (Fargo, The Big Lebowski) loose re imagining of Homer’s The Odyssey sees 3 chain gang escapees fleeing across 1930’s rural Mississippi in search of a hidden treasure. A comedy-drama, with the hapless heroes encountering a variety of challenges, before reaching their destination. Stars George Clooney, John Turturro, Tim Blake Nelson, John Goodman and Holly Hunter. A wonderful Grammy winning soundtrack, integral to the action, was curated by T Bone Burnett.

LOLA   2022   79mins

In 1938, sisters Thomasina (Emma Appleton) and Martha Hanbury (Stefanie Martini) living in the English countryside build a remarkable machine which picks up radio and TV broadcasts from the future. They initially use the machine for fun – becoming the first fans of rock music – but with the onset of war they realise that their machine may help to defeat the Nazis. Early successes begin to turn the tide, but can they be maintained? A uniquely imaginative debut by director Andrew Legge

I, DANIEL BLAKE   2016   120mins

When 59 year old Daniel Blake suffers a serious heart attack he must deal with the welfare system in austerity Britain. In the process he meets single mum Katie, supporting two children. Dan takes the family under his wing as they find themselves at the mercy of a frustrating and uncaring bureaucracy. Heartbreaking decisions must be made. A masterwork from British independent film maker Ken Loach. Winner of many accolades including the Palm d’Or and a BAFTA.

THE FABELMANS   2022   151mins

A coming-of-age drama directed and co-produced by Steven Spielberg, who also co-wrote the screenplay. Loosely based on Spielberg's adolescence and first years as a filmmaker, the story is told through Sammy Fabelman, a young aspiring filmmaker who explores how the power of films can help him see the truth about his dysfunctional family and those around him. Gabriel LaBelle as Sammy, with Michelle Williams, Paul Dano and Seth Rogen. “One of Spielberg's best films, his most personal."

2025 Term 2

Another diverse range of movies this term, all from different countries.

THE DARK HORSE   2014   119mins

An inspiring true story based on the life of a charismatic, brilliant but little-known New Zealand hero and chess champion. It is a provocative, emotionally-charged and inspiring drama about a man who searches for the courage to lead, despite his own hardships - finding purpose and hope in passing on his gift to the children in his community. Starring Cliff Curtis (Whale Rider and Boy), James Rolleston (Boy) and Kirk Torrance."One of the greatest New Zealand films ever made".

THEIR FINEST   2016   116mins

A witty, romantic and moving portrayal of a young woman finding her way, and her voice, in the mayhem of war…and the movies! Set during the London Blitz in 1940, with the country's morale at stake, screenwriter Catrin (Gemma Arterton), and a makeshift cast and crew, work under fire to make a film to lift the nation's spirits - and inspire America to join the war. Starring Gemma Arterton, Sam Claflin, Bill Nighy and a fine ensemble cast including Richard E Grant and Jeremy Irons.

ANIMAL KINGDOM   2010   112mins

A hard-hitting Aussie crime-drama partly inspired by actual events in Melbourne’s underworld. A teenager finds himself drawn into the clutches of a diabolical crime family until a good-hearted detective tries to change the boy’s fate. The terrific cast includes Ben Mendelsohn, Joel Edgerton, Guy Pearce, Jacki Weaver and Dan Wylie. Numerous awards and an Academy Award nomination for Jacki Weaver.

ALMOST FAMOUS   2000   118mins

Written and directed by Cameron Crowe, this comedy-drama is a semi-autobiographical account of his big break as a teenage music journalist, on the road with an up-and-coming rock band, for Rolling Stone magazine. A poignant and hilarious story of a boy on the verge of manhood and a band on the verge of stardom. Starring Patrick Fugit, Billy Crudup, Frances McDormand, Kate Hudson, Noah Taylor and Philip Seymour Hoffman. An Oscar and two Golden Globes.

2025 Term 3

This term’s movies are all “by the book”; our four films are each based on a novel by a prominent author. A literary feast of immensely watchable - and sometimes controversial - adaptations.

THE LAST THING HE WANTED   2020   115mins

In the early 1980s writer and journalist Joan Didion spent time in Central America, cementing her interest in the politics of the region. Her 1996 novel is a political thriller set amidst the secret US actions to topple the Nicaraguan Sandinista government which would become known as the “Iran-Contra Scandal”. A thrilling ride through the dark side of US foreign policy. Stars Anne Hathaway (as the journalist looking for the truth), Ben Affleck, Willem Dafoe and Rosie Perez.

THE GREAT GATSBY   2013   142mins

F. Scott Fitzgerald never see this novel achieve the success he believed it deserved. But after his death, its treatment of class, gender, race, modernity, the environment and “The American Dream”, would be recognised as a contender for “The Great American Novel”. It has inspired numerous adaptations for stage and screen including this sumptuous version from Baz Luhrmann starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Toby Maguire, Cary Mulligan and Joel Edgerton. Numerous gongs, including two Oscars.

THE WHITE TIGER   2021   125mins

Aravind Adiga’s first novel won the prestigious Man Booker Prize in 2008. The story is told by Balram: he was a bright boy from a poor Indian village and uses his wit and cunning to escape from poverty and the “chicken coop” of social and economic constraints. A darkly humorous perspective of India's class struggle in a globalised world, it examines the caste system, corruption and the psychology of servitude. A “darkly comic thriller”. Adarsh Gourav is wonderful as Balram.

HIGH FIDELITY   2000   113mins

Nick Hornby’s rom-com drama sees music obsessive Rob Gordon, owner of a barely viable record shop, dumped by his long-term girlfriend. Distraught, he resolves to contact the women in his “top 5 worst break-ups” list in an attempt to work out why things always go wrong. And the soul searching begins... An exploration of love, life, music and the modern male. Stars John Cusack (as the hapless Rob) with terrific support led by Jack Black, Catherine Zeta-Jones and Tim Robbins.

2025 Term 4

The theme of this term’s screenings is “Against the Odds”: the protagonists of each of our films face challenges of different kinds and must draw on their courage, self-belief, determination and resilience to overcome them.

DARKEST HOUR   2017   125mins

It is the early days of World War II and the future looks increasingly grim for Britain. PM Neville Chamberlain is not able to cling to power and political considerations dictate that his successor must be the far-from-popular Winston Churchill. But things begin to change as he grows into the role… Gary Oldman gives a stellar performance as Churchill with great support from Kristin Scott Thomas, Ben Mendelsohn, Ronald Pickup and others. A raft of awards including two Oscars and two BAFTAs.

HARRIET   2019   125mins

Based on the life of Harriet Tubman who was born into slavery on a Maryland plantation. Escaping to freedom in Philadelphia, she continued to risk her safety by undertaking multiple trips back to the South to rescue seventy more slaves – her family and friends among them – earning herself the nickname of “Moses”. Warmly received by the critics, Cynthia Erivo’s powerful portrayal of Harriet earned her a “Best Actress” Academy Award nomination.

UPROAR   2023   110mins

It is 1981 and teenage Josh Waaka (Julian Dennison, The Hunt for the Wilderpeople) is struggling as the only Maori in a stuffy private school, forced to play rugby which frustrates his dream of becoming an actor. When a friend talks him into going to an anti-Springbok protest things start to change but will Josh find his place in the world? Rhys Darby (The Flight of the Conchords) and Minnie Driver (Good Will Hunting) provide great support. Another kiwi triumph!

TRUE SPIRIT   2023   109mins

This bio-drama tells the story of 16 year old Jessica Watson’s 2009 quest to be the youngest person ever to circumnavigate the world, non-stop and unassisted. Despite her bid preparation almost ending in disaster she perseveres, with the anxious support of her family and friends. Many challenges – and doubts – lay ahead… Based on Jessica Watson’s memoir of her feat. Tegan Croft stars as Jessica with support from Cliff Curtis, Josh Lawson and Anna Paquin. Inspirational!

2026 Term 1

Our films this term are all “road movies”. It’s all about the journey: perspectives change and unexpected discoveries await in these four very different offerings.

PLEASE STAND BY   2018   93mins

Wendy (Dakota Fanning) is an independent and brilliant young woman living with autism. She longs to leave her group home and live with her big sister (Alice Eve) and young child but her past behaviours make this problematic. A Star Trek obsessive, Wendy writes fantasy in her spare time. When a screenplay competition offers the possibility of a new life she runs away – beyond the boundaries where she felt safe - to meet the deadline, her sister and therapist (Toni Collette) in pursuit. She must use every resource to follow her dream…

https://tubitv.com/en-au/movies/511169/please-stand-by

THE STRAIGHT STORY   1999   112mins

In 1994, ageing WWII veteran Alvin Straight, in too poor health to hold a driver’s licence, drove a lawn mower and trailer 390kms from Iowa to Wisconsin, to visit his ailing brother. And make his peace. The NY Times said this David Lynch masterwork is more “about gazing at the sky, about experiencing each encounter to the fullest, than it is about getting anywhere in a hurry. It's been too long since a great American movie dared to regard life that way." Richard Farnsworth as Alvin was nominated for an Oscar. Sissy Spacek is wonderful as his daughter.

https://vk.com/video-162242527_456239067

LAST ORDERS   2002   109mins

Fred Schepisi’s movie sees a quartet embark on a trip to Margate to scatter the ashes of Jack Dodds (Michael Caine), according to his dying wishes: friends Ray (Bob Hoskins), Lenny (David Hemmings) and Vic (Tom Courtenay) and Jack’s son Vince (Ray Winstone). It’s not a long journey but one filled with reminiscences (flashbacks) and some significant stops along the way. The Observer called the film "a moving study of the pleasures and obligations of friendship, and of facing up to a death and going on". Helen Mirren shines amid a sensational cast, as Jack’s widow.

https://m.ok.ru/video/1811229313716

SULLIVAN’S TRAVELS   1941   90mins

Preston Sturges’ satire of the film industry follows a famous Hollywood comedy director John L. Sullivan (Joel McCrea) who, longing to make a socially relevant drama (to be called O Brother, Where Art Thou?), sets out dressed as a tramp to gain real life experience of the downtrodden. Along the way a poor aspiring actress (Veronica Lake) joins him on his journey. But it does not take too long before Sullivan’s z any research caper becomes all too real... "One of the finest movies about movies ever made.” Admired by the Coen brothers and many others.

https://m.ok.ru/video/3114292611790