Sunday (2/11), we’ll be screening A New Leaf (1971), written and directed by Elaine May based on the short story "The Green Heart" by Jack Ritchie. May also stars in her directorial debut with Walter Matthau.
This screening was selected by the angelic Jess:
I would be completely satiated if all media I consumed for the rest of my life were in some way touched by Elaine May! It’s been quite a while since I’ve last watched this absurd romance but what I remember most (besides its humor) is its sweet sincerity.
This movie has so many treasurable moments, and despite a plot that feels somewhat Shakespearean it is, above all, honest and true. Wistful and naive Henrietta (played by May) is a true original, vulnerable and awkward in a way that allows us all to find in her character pieces of ourselves. And in spite of his less-than-admirable actions, Henry shouldn’t be too unrecognizable to us either. Their story acknowledges that the winding avenue to love often involves some healthy cringing, and who hasn’t had murderous ideations whilst in the throes of romance, anyways? Happy Valentine’s Day!
A New Leaf will be playing at Working Room on Sunday, February 11th (yes — we’ll be doing this instead of the Super Bowl). Doors will open at 7:30 PM and the movie will begin promptly at 8:00 PM! <3