THE FABULOUS FOUR

January 6, 2025, 7:30pm at Tilley Hall, UNB Campus

99 mins, USA, 2024, English

Thirty years ago, Jocelyn Moorhouse produced the crowd-pleasing Muriel’s Wedding. Now, she revisits shenanigans around matrimony, this time as a director, with this buddy comedy centered around a fractured 50-year friendship.

Four life-long friends—Lou (Susan Sarandon), Marilyn (Bette Midler), Alice (Megan Mullally), and Kitty (Sheryl Lee Ralph)—reunite in Key West, Florida, for Marilyn's surprise wedding. As they navigate wedding chaos, rekindle their sisterhood, and confront past grievances, their bonds are tested and strengthened through a series of outrageous escapades.

With a cast of talented women who bring authenticity and charm to their roles, "The Fabulous Four" promises a mix of humor, heartfelt moments, and stunning scenic backdrops that transport you to the sunny beaches of Key West. The film not only celebrates the joy and complexities of long-term friendships but also highlights the resilience and vibrancy of women over 60. It's a feel-good movie that will leave you laughing, crying, and calling up your own friends to plan your next adventure together.

“A comedy about BFFs, female needs, objectives, perspectives and aging. Directed by Jocelyn Moorhouse, it stars a quartet of iconic actresses -- Bette Midler. Susan Sarandon, Sheryl Lee Ralph and Megan Mullally -- and they are, indeed, fabulous”. Jennifer Merina AWFJ.org

BLITZ

January 13, 2025, 7:30pm at Tilley Hall, UNB Campus

120 mins, UK, USA, 2024, English

Blitz opens amidst the chaos of the German bombing of London in 1940. In a scene of intense ferocity, a firefighter struggles with a wild fire hose, setting the stage for a raw portrayal of wartime London. Directed by Steve McQueen, the story follows nine-year-old George, who defies his mother Rita's evacuation plans and embarks on a perilous journey back to London amidst the bombings. Played by newcomer Elliott Heffernan, George's adventure unfolds against a backdrop of danger and multicultural diversity.

Rita, portrayed by Saoirse Ronan, grapples with her son's stubborn bravery and the chaos of war. Flashbacks reveal her lively pre-war life with George's father, Marcus, an immigrant from Grenada, highlighting the multicultural reality of wartime Britain. George encounters Ife, a Nigerian air-raid warden, portrayed by Benjamin Clémentine, whose gentle spirit reflects the city's diverse fabric.

McQueen's Blitz challenges nostalgic wartime propaganda, presenting a stark depiction of racism and opportunism. Characters like scavenger-thieves Stephen Graham and Kathy Burke add depth to the story, reminiscent of Dickensian tales. The film is a testament to the ordinary heroes and the multicultural fabric of wartime London, blending historical accuracy with poignant storytelling.

Blitz is a cinematic triumph that offers a fresh perspective on World War II. Steve McQueen's direction and the outstanding performances create a powerful narrative of resilience and diversity. The film challenges sanitized historical narratives and celebrates the bravery of those who lived through the Blitz, making it an unforgettable viewing experience.

“McQueen, whose unflinching "12 Years a Slave" won Best Picture in 2013, softens his touch a bit here. But his eye is as sharp as ever, and he identifies beauty even in the darkest of spaces...” Adam Graham, Detroit News

GOODRICH

January 20, 2025, 7:30pm at Tilley Hall, UNB Campus

110 mins, USA, 2024, English

Andy Goodrich (Michael Keaton) is a wealthy art gallery owner in Los Angeles who enjoys a life of luxury, with a housekeeper to look after his twin children. His world is turned upside down when his wife, Naomie (Laura Benanti), checks into rehab for a prescription drug addiction, leaving Andy to handle his kids for the first time. Despite his initial incompetence as a father, Andy begins to bond with his children, Mose (Jacob Kopera) and Billie (Vivien Lyra Blair), while hiding the truth about their mother’s absence.

As Andy navigates parenthood, he forms a close friendship with Pete (Michael Urie), the father of a classmate, and tries to impress a potential gallery client, Carmen Ejogo, to save his struggling business. Meanwhile, his pregnant daughter from his first marriage, Grace (Mila Kunis), watches as Andy becomes the father she never had. Throughout the film, Andy's journey from a neglectful parent to an involved and caring father is marked by humorous and heartwarming moments.

Andy’s character, played with charm by Keaton, evolves as he confronts his failings and tries to make amends. Kunis delivers a poignant performance as Grace, whose disappointment in her father is palpable. The film, directed by Hallie Meyers-Shyer, balances its comedic and dramatic elements well, bringing a fresh take on the late-life crisis trope.

Goodrich" is an endearing comedy-drama that showcases Michael Keaton’s knack for playing flawed yet lovable characters. The film’s heartwarming narrative, combined with a stellar cast and a mix of humor and sentiment, makes it a relatable and touching story of redemption and family bonding. It is a testament to the idea that it’s never too late to become a better person and reconnect with those who matter most.

“Heartfelt, funny and honest. Michael Keaton brings charisma, poignancy, warmth and tenderness to his role. Mila Kunis gives one of the best performances of her career.” Avi Offer, NYC Movie Guru

TREASURE

January 27, 2025, 7:30pm at Tilley Hall, UNB Campus

111 mins, Germany, France, 2024, English, Polish

In 1991, Ruth (Lena Dunham), an American music journalist, embarks on a road trip to Poland with her father, Edek (Stephen Fry), a Holocaust survivor. Ruth aims to uncover her family's past, while Edek, charming yet stubborn, has his own reasons for revisiting his homeland. Directed by Julia von Heinz, Treasure is a blend of humor and drama that explores the lingering traumas of the Holocaust alongside the vibrant, evolving landscape of post-socialist Poland.

The film, inspired by Lily Brett's semi-autobiographical novel, opens with Ruth and Edek arriving in Poland, where Ruth is puzzled by her father's sudden interest in a trip he previously showed no inclination for. As they journey through Poland, Ruth grows frustrated with Edek’s reluctance to share his memories and his tendency to treat the trip more as a vacation than a pilgrimage. However, beneath his jovial facade lies a deep-seated trauma that surfaces during a visit to Auschwitz, bringing father and daughter closer as they confront the past together.

Stephen Fry excels in a rare dramatic role, portraying Edek as a man with hidden depths behind his seemingly cheerful exterior. Lena Dunham delivers a strong performance as Ruth, a daughter striving to connect with her father and understand his history. Von Heinz effectively balances the sobering aspects of the story with moments of humor, capturing the culture clash and the poignant realities of life in a newly-emancipated Soviet republic.

Treasure is a heartfelt journey that delves into the complexities of family bonds and the enduring impact of history. Its compelling performances and rich storytelling make it a poignant exploration of the past's role in shaping our present and future, underscored by both tears and laughter.

“Quiet reflections and honesty inside a troubled, but loving bond and and tug at the hearts. Its And it has its funny moments too.” Anne Brodie, What She Said

THE CRITIC

February 3, 2025, 7:30pm at Tilley Hall, UNB Campus

99 mins, UK, 2023, English

Set in 1930s London, The Critic follows the powerful and influential theater critic Jimmy Erskine (Sir Ian McKellen). Erskine revels in his ability to make or break careers with his scathing reviews, living a life filled with indulgence and secretive pleasures. However, his comfortable existence is threatened when the new steward of the Chronicle, Richard Brooke (Mark Strong), seeks to revitalize the newspaper, putting Erskine in the crosshairs due to his controversial lifestyle and sharp critiques.

As the pressure mounts, Erskine hatches a blackmail scheme involving struggling actress Nina Land (Gemma Arterton), who desperately seeks his favor to save her faltering career. Nina, herself caught in a web of illicit romance, becomes an unwitting pawn in Erskine's dangerous game. The plot thickens as Erskine manipulates both Nina and Brooke, leading to a series of events with deadly consequences.

With the backdrop of pre-WWII England and the rise of fascism, the tension escalates, exposing the dark underbelly of the theater world and the personal vendettas simmering beneath the surface. Erskine's interactions with his young lover/secretary (Alfred Enoch) and his manipulative dealings with Brooke and Nina paint a complex picture of a man struggling to maintain his influence in a rapidly changing society.

Directed by Anand Tucker and adapted by Patrick Marber from Anthony Quinn's novel Curtain Call, The Critic is a gripping tale of ambition, deceit, and survival. McKellen's performance as Erskine is mesmerizing, capturing the character's vulnerability, cunning, and desperation. The film's rich narrative and stellar cast, including Lesley Manville, bring to life a story brimming with intrigue and dark twists, making The Critic an unforgettable cinematic experience.

“... Directed by Tucker with assurance and panache, The Critic is the kind of entertainment, busy with plot, bordering on farce, but shaded with dark motive, that used to be the speciality of Ealing Studios.” Tom Shone, Sunday Times (UK

“Anand Tucker’s bitter thriller shows human frailty and the ability to sink into evil, with merciless clarity. This character study/crime/ period piece, is certainly elegant enlivened by a witty script.” Anne Brodie, What She Said

“Handsomely mounted, with sumptuous period details, The Critic and its topflight performances detail mostly despicable people who hide their nefarious motivations behind an upper-class veneer.” Richard Crouse

WE LIVE IN TIME

February 10, 2025, 7:30pm at Tilley Hall, UNB Campus

107 mins, UK, France, 2024, English

Featuring Oscar nominees Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield, We Live in Time is a beautifully crafted romance that explores the question of how to make the most of our time in this world. Almut (Pugh) and Tobias (Garfield) share a life filled with passion and challenges, depicted across three intertwining timelines that reveal the depths of their relationship and the impact of past experiences on their present.

From their first memorable meeting, where Almut nearly runs over Tobias in her car, to their idyllic life in the countryside, and the heartbreak of Almut’s cancer diagnosis, the film alternates between these key moments. Director John Crowley and writer Nick Payne use nonlinear storytelling to heighten the emotional impact, emphasizing how chance and chaos shape their lives.

As Almut undergoes aggressive cancer treatment, their bond strengthens, and they confront life-altering decisions together. Their journey is marked by both humor and grit, capturing the couple's resilience and love. Pugh’s portrayal of Almut, a Bavarian-fusion chef with ambitions beyond her family life, and Garfield’s performance as Tobias, a meticulous planner, bring depth to their characters, making their story relatable and moving.

We Live in Time challenges traditional romantic narratives by giving its characters agency and fleshed-out backstories, all while maintaining a sense of whimsy and realism. The film’s poignant exploration of love, memory, and time will resonate with audiences, making it a standout in the genre.

“With Pugh and Garfield delivering authentic, genuine movie-star performances, We Live in Time is an old-fashioned weeper, done with heart and originality.” Richard Roeper, Chicago Sun-Times

“This is a film that, at its best, while softly cradling its two battered protagonists, is also howling madly at the shadow of mortality.” Kevin Maher, Times (UK)

CONCLAVE

February 17, 2025, 7:30pm at Tilley Hall, UNB Campus

120 mins, USA, UK, 2024, English, Italian

When the Pope unexpectedly dies, cardinals from around the world converge on the Vatican for the secretive election of a new leader. This process, steeped in tradition and intrigue, is brilliantly depicted in Conclave, directed by the Academy Award–winning director of All Quiet on the Western Front. Starring Ralph Fiennes, John Lithgow, Stanley Tucci, and Isabella Rossellini, this film is a riveting exploration of power, faith, and human frailty.

Cardinal Lawrence (Fiennes), the Dean of the College of Cardinals, must navigate the intense, locked-down environment of the Vatican as the cardinals sequester themselves to vote. The process, rich in historical rituals, involves burning ballots to signal the outcome, with grey smoke indicating no decision and white smoke announcing a new Pope. Lawrence, burdened with personal doubts and the weight of his past, presides over the proceedings amidst political maneuvering and moral dilemmas.

The stellar cast delivers electrifying performances. Lithgow plays a candidate teetering on the edge of ethical boundaries, while Tucci’s Cardinal Bellini, a liberal, struggles to gain support. Rossellini shines as a formidable nun with keen insight into the unfolding drama. The film’s visual splendor, captured by cinematographer Stéphane Fontaine, contrasts the grandeur of the Vatican with the human pettiness and power struggles within its walls.

Conclave captivates with its smart, provocative narrative and unexpected twists. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the arcane processes of the Catholic Church while resonating with universal themes of ambition, tradition, and the complex dance between faith and doubt. This gripping thriller is a standout film of the year, challenging viewers to rethink their perceptions and delivering a compelling blend of suspense and human drama.

“A major awards contender, this is a deftly executed and gripping tale of secrets, lies and human ambition. Fiennes is magnetic, while the supporting cast conspire to wrap this tale of faith, power and morality in sumptuous dramatic cloth.” Linda Marric, HeyUGuys

ALL WE IMAGINE AS LIGHT

February 24, 2025, 7:30pm at Tilley Hall, UNB Campus

115 mins, France, India, Netherlands, Luxembourg, Italy, 2024, Hindi, Malayalam

All We Imagine as Light, directed by celebrated filmmaker Payal Kapadia, is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant drama set in the vibrant city of Mumbai. The film follows two nurses, Prabha (Kani Kusruti) and Anu (Divya Prabha), who navigate personal turning points and the possibility of romance while experiencing the bustling life of the city and the serene beauty of the seaside.

Prabha, a head nurse, and Anu, her fun-loving and impulsive younger colleague, are roommates and unlikely friends. Both have migrated from Kerala to Mumbai, carrying the weight of strict family expectations and complicated romantic lives. Anu is secretly dating a Muslim man, Shiaz, while Prabha's arranged marriage is in limbo as her husband lives in Germany. Despite their differences, a profound sisterhood develops between them, offering solace and understanding.

The film beautifully captures the essence of Mumbai during the monsoon season, illustrating the city's overwhelming nature for its many newcomers. Kapadia's storytelling blurs the lines between fiction and reality, with scenes reflecting the true stories of Mumbai residents. As Prabha and Anu support their older colleague Parvaty, who is being evicted by greedy developers, they confront questions about home, belonging, and the strength of their friendship.

Through rapturous visuals and a heartfelt narrative, All We Imagine as Light explores themes of solidarity, empathy, and resilience. It is a poignant reminder of the power of female friendship and the beauty found in shared struggles and support. Kapadia's film is a testament to the enduring bonds that help us navigate life's challenges and uncertainties.

“There are a million stories in the naked city, and Kapadia is about to show you three of them in the most delicate, moving way possible. She’s also about to mount a quiet, sneak attack on your soul.” David Fear, Rolling Stone