ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

The Davidson Film Club is screening the Oscar-nominated Best Foreign Language Film Incendies this Saturday, June 16, at the Armour Street Theatre at 7:00 p.m.

“This is a heart wrenching film that feels a bit like a double barrel shotgun: one barrel is loaded with unspeakable things, the other with beauty and purity. The journey is powerful, at times tortuous but richly satisfying and strangely uplifting even when we think all is lost. Louise Keller, Urban Cinefile

Directed by Denis Villeneuve

Canada (2010, 2h10)

In French and Arabic with English subtitles

The film will be presented and discussion led by Dr. Carole Kruger, Chair of the French Department at Davidson College and a specialist in Quebec cinema.

Film Summary:

Set in the context of the Lebanese civil war (1975-90), Incendies concerns a pair of twins who make a life-altering discovery following the death of their mother. Upon learning that their absentee father is still very much alive, and they also have a brother they have never met, the pair travels to the Middle East on a mission to uncover the truth about their mystery-shrouded past. Incendies tells the powerful and moving tale of two young adults’ voyage to the core of deep-rooted hatred, never-ending wars, and enduring love.

Winner of multiple prizes for Best Film, Best Director, Best Actress, and Best Screenplay at international film festivals, 39 prizes in all and 15 additional nominations. Rotten Tomatoes Tomatometer (critical opinion): 92%.

“Incendies is a masterpiece; a virtually flawless piece of writing, directing, and acting that comes together in a narrative of no easy answers and an ending that leaves you rattled.” Spectator Review

“It’s a raw and brutal look at the unending strife in the region, but it’s also an unforgettable mystery that keeps the audience riveted through one surprising plot turn after another.” Rob Thomas, Capital Times

“Rage has no expiration date in Incendies, director Denis Villeneuve’s gripping, era-jumping drama about a family melded to its war-torn past.” Chris Vognar, Dallas Morning News

“An intense, gripping and absolutely wonderful drama that tells a devastating story about love, hate, secrets, and amends, and it does so in a completely unpredictable way, with a powerful performance by Lubna Azabal and an unbelievable, jaw-dropping ending.” Spectator Review

If you are not a Davidson Film Club member, walk-ins ($9, NC Sales tax included) are always welcome, cash or check.  Walk-in students $7. 

Reservations may be made in advance at [email protected], with payment at the door—or just walk in!