Independent film series returns to the library

Written by The Darien Times
Thursday, 06 January 2011 07:54

The Darien Library will hold its second annual Independent Film Series on Friday nights in January, at 7:30 p.m. The library will host screenings of independent films in the community room. Last January, the library tried an experiment and dedicated its Friday Night Film Series to screening the indies, and the limited-release films were a success with audiences.

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Here’s the schedule for Darien Library’s 2011 Independent Film Series:

Exit through the Gift Shop (2010), documentary feature; rated R; 87 minutes, Friday, Jan. 7, at 7:30.

Banksy is a graffiti artist with a global reputation whose work can be seen on walls from post-hurricane New Orleans to the separation barrier on the Palestinian West Bank. Fiercely guarding his anonymity to avoid prosecution, Banksy has so far resisted all attempts to be captured on film. This film tells the incredible true story of how an eccentric French shop keeper turned documentary maker attempted to locate and befriend Banksy, only to have the artist turn the camera back on its owner. The film contains exclusive footage of Banksy, Shepard Fairey, Invader, and man of the world’s most infamous graffiti artists at work, on walls, and in interview.

Outsourced (2006), starring Josh Hamilton, Ayesha Dharker, and Asif Basra; Rated PG-13; 103 minutes, Friday, Jan. 14

“Outsourced” is a modern day comedy of cross-cultural conflict and romance. Todd Anderson spends his days managing a customer call center in Seattle until his job, along with those of the entire office, are outsourced to India. Adding insult to injury, Todd must travel to India to train his new replacement. As he navigates through the chaos of Bombay and an office paralyzed by constant cultural misunderstandings, Todd yearns to return to the comforts of home. But it is through his team of quirky yet likable Indian call center workers, including his friendly and motivated replacement, Puro, and the charming, opinionated Asha, that Todd realizes that he too has a lot to learn - not only about India and America, but about himself. He soon discovers that being outsourced may be the best thing that ever happened to him.

Cyrus (2010), Starring John C. Reilly, Marisa Tomei, and Jonah Hill; Rated R; 91 minutes; Friday, Jan. 21, at 7:30

A quirky, hilarious story about love, family, and cutting the cord. Not-so-recently divorced John thinks he’s finally found the perfect woman when he meets the sweet and sexy Molly. There’s just one problem; Molly’s son Cyrus clings to his mom like lint on a T-shirt, and he’s not about to let another man come between them.

Pressure Cooker (2008), documentary feature; Not rated; 99 minutes; Friday, Jan. 28, at 7:30

There’s a force-of-nature behind the door to Room 325 at Frankford High School in Philadelphia. Her name is Wilma Stephenson and she teaches Culinary Arts. Infamously blunt, Mrs. Stephenson runs a “boot camp” at Frankford, disciplining her students into capable chefs and responsible students. A teacher for 40 years, Wilma can be cantankerous - but behind her tough talking exterior is a teacher who cares passionately about getting the best out of her kids. She’ll do anything for those students with the hunger to succeed; those who fall short will not be missed - many will drop out before the first week is over. The film documents an entire school year with Wilma and her students. At a school where over 40% of the students don’t even make it to their senior year, Wilma shows her kids how to achieve her version of the American dream: Choose a realistic goal. Work hard. Work the system. You get out of Northeast Philly.

All films are free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served.

More info: 203-655-1234, DarienLibrary.org, 1441 Post Road, additional parking for evening and weekend pro