Award winning films coming soon

TRANSPORT YOURSELF THROUGH FILM — Knickerbocker Theatre delights viewers with a wide selection of artistic films that depict diverse cultures. (White Wolf Pack)

Want to be transported into another country, time or place? Enjoy films that are out of the mainstream? The Knickerbocker Theatre on 8th Street is hosting their Winter Film Series, which offers many films that are unique, artistic and sure to pique the interest of many Hope College students.

This past week, the film “Faces Places” played, delighting viewers with the story of an unlikely friendship that forms when 90-year-old veteran film director Agnes Varda and young photographer and muralist J.R. journey through rural France. The pair travel in a special box truck equipped with a portable photo booth and document people throughout their journey, exposing the idiosyncrasies of those they encounter along the way. This unlikely duo creates art that inspires and explores themes of aging and storytelling. This film, although no longer playing at the Knickerbocker, is one that you should try to see.

Sad you missed “Faces Places?” No need to fret. From March 12-17 at 7:30 p.m., the film “Te Ata” will be playing. This incredible film depicts the true story of Mary Thompson Fisher (played by Q’Orianka Kilcher), a Native American woman who traverses cultural barriers to become one of the greatest performers of all time. This story reveals how isolation, discovery and love play a role in self-development and identity. This award-winning film is one you will want to put on your calendar.

Last but not least, the Knickerbocker will be showing the film “Hotel Salvation” from April 9-14 at 7:30 p.m. This film explores the strength of family bonds and the cycle of life and death in an Indian family. When Dayanand Kumar has a dream that he believes foretells his certain passing, he tells his son Rajiv that he would like to breathe his last in the holy city of Varanasi. Rajiv has no choice but to make the journey with his father. They check into Mukhti Bhawan (Hotel Salvation), a guesthouse devoted to the dying. Rajiv begins to struggle to maintain his obligations at home, while his father begins to bloom in the hotel. Ironically, this story gives telling insight into the intricacies of life and relationships within a society that weaves death into the narrative of life. These films are award- winning masterpieces that are limited in their availability. Hope students are given the unique chance to explore other cultures and artistic styles through this medium. If you are able, invite a friend or family member along. The films are FREE to Hope students, $6 for senior community members and faculty, and $7 for adults. Students are encouraged to attend.