By Keeva Stratton
There’s something about the smell of popcorn, the calming darkness and the complete escape from everything outside that makes going to the movies such a timeless form of fun. But, if in the age of the megaplex, surround sound and 3D, you feel that the cinema has lost its heart and soul, the good news is you’ve just been going to the wrong one…
Independent and Art House cinemas ooze with nostalgic charm, from the classic red curtains to the audible clicking of the reel, and while we’re all up for the occasional blockbuster, there is a genuine richness to the smaller cinematic experience that no amount of technology can replace. Don’t be turned off by the unknown bill, see it as an opportunity to explore the world of cinema, and you’ll be greatly rewarded.
Where to Go
From renovated Town Halls to cinemas that have stood since your parents were dating, independent cinemas are often in character-filled venues as transformative as the films themselves. The two leading local groups are Palace Cinemas (known as Luna Palace in WA) and Dendy, but there are also a handful of local independent cinemas that are well worth uncovering.
What to See
With the Italian Film Festival heading around the nation in late September to early October, independent cinemas are in their prime season. Here is a list of current and soon-to-be released films that will reignite your passion and respect for high quality cinema:
1. Gasland – an inspiring and award-winning documentary on the devastating effects of natural gas mining in America.
2. The Girl Who Played With Fire – the unflinching Swedish-made sequel to The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, based on the second book in the highly successful Stieg Larsson Millennium trilogy (don’t waste time waiting for the glossy American remake).
3. Father Of My Children – a moving and deeply thoughtful tale about one man’s passion that came at the ultimate cost to his family.
4. The Reluctant Infidel – a humorous and cleverly conceived look at the fundamentals of religious difference. Boy – a charming yet provocative look at a complex world through the innocent eyes of a young boy.
Dipping Your Toe into the Pool of DVDs
If you’re not yet confident enough to launch yourself into the wonders of international or art house cinema, why not head to your local DVD store and rent a few of the must-sees to get inspired. (Please make sure you watch the films in their original languages, with subtitles!) While it’s intensely difficult to narrow down such an incredibly diverse range of films on offer, the following five selections should tempt your taste buds across a range of genres and national cinemas:
1. Run Lola Run – this fast paced, time twisting tale put Germany (and fiery red hair) back on the film map.
2. Amelie – adored for her charm and naive world view, Amelie is an entrancing French film about love… and love her you will indeed.
3. Kung Fu Hustle – Stephen Chow’s unique brand of Kung Fu comedy is both stylish and addictive; you will be insisting friends and colleagues indulge in this cult Hong Kong fave.
4. Three Colours Trilogy by Krzysztof Kieslowski – often considered to be one of the greatest cinematic trilogies, the masterful Polish director Kieslowski encapsulates the intelligence and mystique of international cinema with a deft hand throughout these intensely paced dramas. Comes in Three Colours: Blue, White, and Red.
5. The Hedgehog – Based on the novel by Muriel Barbery, this insightful piece of cinema is both poetic and moving. A small film with an enormous heart.
Independent cinemas are renowned for their passion for the art of film. And with great atmosphere, fantastic coffee and chic wine bars, you’ll soon be passionate, and perhaps a little surprised at just how accessible this long thought esoteric world can be!
Image credit: fortheloveoffilm.org
