5/15 - Cinema Paradiso
Monday (5/15) we’ll be screening Cinema Paradiso from 1988 directed by Giuseppe Tornatore. The movie explores the lifelong love affair between a boy named Toto and the art of cinema. Set in a small Italian village in the aftermath of World War II, the movie follows Toto as he befriends the local projectionist and falls in love with the magic of film. Cinema Paradiso went on to win the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 1990.
This film is just special to me. Nick and I stumbled upon it a few months ago, knowing pretty much nothing about it. At the time, I was in a cynical state of mind about movies. I hadn’t watched anything that was truly captivating or memorable in awhile. But watching Cinema Paradiso was a turning point for me. We laughed, cried, gasped, and clung onto every moment. The movie follows a story of nostalgia and childhood, with the classic elements of the genre, yet manages to feel refreshingly unique and singular. All while making stylistic choices that feel daring. The acting is indulgent and over-the-top at points, and while this would normally make me cringe, it feels deliberate and essential. The whole way through I was completely enamored with this movie.
Cinema Paradiso is pure narrative magic, and it’s a masterpiece to me. I can’t wait to watch this with my friends at the studio, the day after my 29th birthday.
Cinema Paradiso will be playing at Working Room Monday, May 15th. Doors will open early at 7:00 PM if you want to hang for a bit and have some tea / snacks, and the movie will begin promptly at 8:00 PM! RSVP is not required but is always appreciated. Email me if you need the address! Don’t forget your pillow / blanket if you want to watch from the floor! <3
Thank you for coming to watch movies at the studio. Writing this is making me really grateful.
<3, Liza