The new Community Cinema in the middle of Broughton continues this coming Friday with two screenings.
One is aimed at children and families in the afternoon, the other at adults in the evening.
Below, programmers Rory Bonass and James Mooney preview what’s in store.
Kirikou and the Sorceress (1998), 71 minutes, Certificate U
Our series following adventurous children continues apace, with this screening finding us in West Africa.
Kirikou is a baby boy, born already walking and talking into a village oppressed by the sorceress Karaba, who has visited all manner of evils upon Kirikou’s people, from eating the men to draining the water. In a series of adventures inspired heavily by African folk tales, Kirikou does battle with Karaba, relying on his wits, determination and childlike, inquisitive nature.
A beautiful, vividly colourful story, this was the first films programmed, as it perfectly summed up the intent of the series. It’s a story that, while foreign in content, has instantly recognisable themes and a strong regard for children and their abilities. Kirikou’s simple, direct nature is what makes him heroic, and he is an inspiration regardless of your age.—RB
All ages are welcome, and children under 5 attend for free. Doors open at 2.00pm. Come in and join us for refreshments, and to meet the New Town Cinema community. This screening is presented in French, with English subtitles. There will be a brief introduction beforehand. The film will start at 2.30pm. Reserve your ticket in advance here (£6.44) or buy on the door (£5).
Monsoon Wedding (2001), 114 minutes, Certificate 15
The penultimate film in our series set in the world’s capital cities takes us to Delhi. Mira Nair’s Monsoon Wedding – which received the Golden Lion prize at the Venice Film Festival – could be described as an Indian comedy of manners, owing as much to Hollywood as it does to Bollywood.
Centring on a traditional, Punjabi, arranged marriage and preparations for the ceremony as extended family descend on the household, the film explores a variety of relationships and issues such as class, infidelity, gender, and even childhood abuse. The wedding planner struggles to free himself from poverty, the bride-to-be is having an affair with a married man, the teenage son prefers dancing to cricket, and a close family friend is not what he appears.
However, while the film confronts some difficult themes, the abiding ones are those of family and love. This is a film with great humour and warmth, set against the vibrant colours and sounds of India. Played out in a mixture of English, Punjabi and Hindi, Monsoon Wedding perfectly marries tradition and modernity, providing a touching and entertaining insight into contemporary Indian society.—JM
Doors open at 7.00pm. The 7:30pm screening will be preceded by a short introduction and followed by an opportunity for informal discussion. Reserve your ticket in advance here (£6.44) or buy on the door (£7; £5 concs).