There’s just something about sitting in a dark theater, munching buttery, salty popcorn, and watching a great film unfold in front of your eyes. But these days, that’s not as much of an option, so while we’re still restricted from attending theaters in full force, the Queen Theatre has come up with an alternative sure to please true movie enthusiasts: virtual cinema!
The virtual cinema experience will open with three critically acclaimed films featuring cinematic art that will send shivers down your spine, all of which can be watched in your own home through the Queen’s Film Society website for $12 each. The society will also host an informal online meeting to discuss the films with other local film fans and noted film studies scholar Joe McElhaney. McElhaney teaches cinematic space, camera movement, and film acting courses at Hunter College and is the author of an upcoming book, “Luchino Visconti and the Fabric of Cinema,” focusing on the director of one of the society’s chosen films.
The three films currently being offered are captivating due to their special attention to culture, and “Vitalina Varela” is no exception. A beautiful, heart wrenching drama, this film features nonprofessional actress Varela giving an extraordinary performance based on the story of her own life. Directed by Pedro Costa, “Vitalina Varela” has been chosen as an official film for the 2021 Sundance Film Festival. Jonathan Christian from The Playlist calls this film “A beautiful mediation on legacy, loss, and love.”
“A White, White Day” is an eye-catching film for the thrill seekers out there due to its artistic exploration of classic thriller themes and Nordic values, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. “A White, White Day” is a 2020 release by director Hlynur Palmason set in a remote Icelandic town. In this chilling film, a police chief begins to suspect a local man of having engaged in an affair with his late wife and slowly goes mad over the obsession.
It’s easy to get lost in “L’innocente,” a fanciful film filled with beautiful people, artistry, and architecture. Director Luchino Visconti presents this romantic film in such a way that will have the viewer daydreaming of lavish villas and luxurious lifestyles. Set in late nineteenth-century Italy, “L’innocente” tells the story of a man who, despite his own infidelity, becomes heartbroken by his wife’s own affair.
If you’re a film buff at all, consider not only watching these and upcoming films, but joining the Queen’s Film Society. For a nominal yearly fee, members can enjoy the society’s chosen films free of charge and also participate in the selection process. Additionally, videographers and filmmakers can screen their works at society monthly meetings.
To rent any of these films and more or for more information about the optional online meeting, visit https://bit.ly/2z9eb0Z.
Sources: https://fm.hunter.cuny.edu/facultystaff/full-time-faculty/joe-mcelhaney/) (Arthouse: https://wonderfulcinema.com/art-house-definition/) (Sensibilities: https://rianswart.co.za/nordic-sensibility-and-social-consciousness/)
