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Movie Night Group - General Information
The Movie Night Group is a social group of people who enjoy seeing movies. We have only one theatre in the Comox Valley - the Rialto. We generally see a movie and gather (either before or after the movie) where we will discuss the movie and generally socialize. Some folks will have a drink or coffee while others will have dinner. This is not mandatory but we do like to keep this group social. We encourage you to share our conversation and a cup of coffee or tea.
Our main focus is on the Comox Valley Film Series, in conjunction with the Toronto International Film Festivals held in the Fall and the Winter. The two Series run from the end of September to November, and from January to late March. The tickets are purchased at the Art Gallery in person or by phone. The coordinator will endeavour to know when the tickets are available for purchase. Sometimes the title of the films are not available when we purchase our tickets, but the movies are always worth seeing, and varied in their subject matter. Tickets are generally purchased for the entire presentation of 5 or 6 movies, although they are sold for individual movies if tickets are available. The movies are usually every 2nd Sunday, two weeks apart. We go to these movies before dinner, as they are at 5:00 p.m., and we meet afterwards for dinner.
From April to September the current co-ordinator will select a movie that our group should enjoy, about 6 days before the event. Any earlier is impossible as we don't know which movies are available until Monday or Tuesday nights. She will send an email to the entire group stating the movie that the group will see and the restaurant or pub where we will meet for conversation and camaraderie, before or after the movie. The movies are organized when there is a movie that seems to be of interest to our group; the main criteria being that the movie is a good one. If anyone wants to split off and see another movie when we arrive at the theatre, that's fine. Also, members are encouraged to communicate interest in a particular movie to the coordinator.
The coordinator communicates via email about what is coming up. She's very open to suggestions of movies or restaurants. Always feel free to email her: vmatthew@shaw.ca .
Cardinals - November 4, 2018
This film was eclipsed by the theatre itself. This was our first time in the theatre enjoying the new reclining seats! Oh, my goodness but they are so very comfortable, and we can't recommend going to the theatre in its upgraded incarnation. It's lovely. The sound has also been upgraded and the theatre was painted and new floors were installed.
The film was unremarkable. It was delivered at a very slow pace, and ended very abruptly. The premise of the movie was interesting enough but it needed some work to be worth recommending. However, I don't think anyone in our group minded as we were all so very comfortable! Some of our members had really good naps, though! :) |
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Mary Shelley - October 28, 2018
We had the distinct pleasure of seeing the movie "Mary Shelley" starring Elle Fanning on Sunday night. This was a wonderful movie filled with the sights and sounds of London in the 1800s, but not from the perspective of the rich. Instead we were lead through various impoverished locations in London, following Mary Shelley and her lover Percy Shelley as he tried to make a living with his writing. Eventually their life lead them to a luxurious locale, where Lord Byron hosted them. This locale proved to be more complex than life in London, given Byron's excesses. When they returned to London, Mary was abandoned to a life of poverty again, where she wrote "Frankenstein". Eventually Mary and Percy found their way back to one another, he having changed a great deal. The movie was a wonderful piece of history brought to life.
After we dined at Sushi Jo, on Cliff and 8th. The sushi and other fare was very good and the conversation was excellent!
This movie was all the better since it was the last movie we will ever have to spend in the uncomfortable seats at the Rialto! Good bye to those horrible things!
After we dined at Sushi Jo, on Cliff and 8th. The sushi and other fare was very good and the conversation was excellent!
This movie was all the better since it was the last movie we will ever have to spend in the uncomfortable seats at the Rialto! Good bye to those horrible things!
Aren't we a good looking group of film intellects? :)
The Miseducation of Cameron Post - October 21, 2018
This movie was a provocative treatise on what happens to a child living in a fundamentalist Christian town, being raised by these values, when the child discovers in her adolescence, that she is gay. More to the point, it tells what happens to the girl when it is discovered that she is gay in a rather public way. Her family sends her away to a camp where the councillors attempt to deprogram her. The bulk of the movie is set at the camp and shows the main character, Cameron, and her fellow "inmates" and how they try to bring the kids around to a heterosexual way of life. The movie handled a very sensitive topic by confronting it head on and making no bones about the point of view of the piece. There were really fine performances by all the young actors. The movie is an award winner of the Grand Jury Prize for dramatic feature at Sundance.
At dinner at Joe Klassen's there was a lot of conversation about the heartlessness of some people who profess Christianity. Those conversation branched into other discussions of a controversial nature. Yes, we can discuss these topics in a respectful way. I'm proud of our group's tolerance and sensitivity.
At dinner at Joe Klassen's there was a lot of conversation about the heartlessness of some people who profess Christianity. Those conversation branched into other discussions of a controversial nature. Yes, we can discuss these topics in a respectful way. I'm proud of our group's tolerance and sensitivity.
Anthropocene: The Human Epoch - October 14, 2018
Our movie group has grown and we are all very much enjoying the Comox Art Gallery's Film Series. Film number three was the award winning "Anthopocene: The Human Epoch" . This documentary was brilliantly filmed and executed. The film makers set out to show what human activity has done to this planet, from ivory poaching to logging. The thoughtful handling of this film leads the viewer to the inevitable conclusion that we must stop harming the environment. However, it is not preachy. It does it with a gentle hand that allows the cinema goer to make up his or her own mind. This movie earned a covetted 100% approval on Rotten Tomatoes.
After we lightened up at the new restaurant at the casino, called Match. This new pub-like dining establishment has a great menu and a nice atmosphere. All 17 of us enjoyed our meals while we chatted about the movie.
After we lightened up at the new restaurant at the casino, called Match. This new pub-like dining establishment has a great menu and a nice atmosphere. All 17 of us enjoyed our meals while we chatted about the movie.
Mary Goes Round - September 30, 2018
The Comox Valley Art Gallery Film Series associated with the Toronto International Film Festival followed by Drinks and Dinner at Avenue
The Movie Group saw a wonderful, challenging movie on Sunday night. "Mary Goes Round" follows a young addictions counsellor as she is faced with a life altering decision to get sober herself. On her very rough journey to find her sobriety, she rediscovers her father and begins a difficult relationship with her sister. There were a lot of issues packed into this relatively short, Canadian made, movie. It was a very good film, with very good performances by the Canadian actors. The audience was wrapped up in the movie, as they witnessed a couple of very tough realties being play out before them.
We took a breath as we travelled to the Avenue in Comox, and a wonderful, raucous dinner provided all of us with plenty of laughs and camaraderie, much needed after such difficult subjects. The food was, as always, excellent!
The next movie is "Anthopocene: The Human Epoch", in two weeks.
The Movie Group saw a wonderful, challenging movie on Sunday night. "Mary Goes Round" follows a young addictions counsellor as she is faced with a life altering decision to get sober herself. On her very rough journey to find her sobriety, she rediscovers her father and begins a difficult relationship with her sister. There were a lot of issues packed into this relatively short, Canadian made, movie. It was a very good film, with very good performances by the Canadian actors. The audience was wrapped up in the movie, as they witnessed a couple of very tough realties being play out before them.
We took a breath as we travelled to the Avenue in Comox, and a wonderful, raucous dinner provided all of us with plenty of laughs and camaraderie, much needed after such difficult subjects. The food was, as always, excellent!
The next movie is "Anthopocene: The Human Epoch", in two weeks.
Unarmed Verses - September 16, 2018 (World Record Attendance!!!)
The movie group set a record having 20 members attending dinner after seeing "Unarmed Verses" on Sunday night.!!! This was the first film of the Comox Valley Art Gallery's Film Series fall season. Most of the group liked the movie very much, while some were not fans of the more impressionistic approach of the film maker. "Unarmed Verses" is a very intimate documentary of Francine Valentine, a 13 year old girl struggling with issues of self-confidence and longing for a sense of belonging, in a world where she feels about to uprooted at any time. She finds her confidence through a community of poets who are putting their work to music, with the encouragement of a young musician. Francine eventually succeeds at her project and, with that, launches herself into a more assured existence. She learns to hold her head up. This documentary was present to TIFF by the National Film Board of Canada.
After the movie the 20 of us went to dinner at the White Spot. Dinner was great, and there was a lot of chatter about the movie as well as life in general. This is a very dynamic group!
After the movie the 20 of us went to dinner at the White Spot. Dinner was great, and there was a lot of chatter about the movie as well as life in general. This is a very dynamic group!
Mamma Mia - Here We Go Again - July 23, 2018
It was with great anticipation and not a little fear of disappointment that the writer awaited this sequel, or sequel and prequel, to be reviewed. Much to my surprise the reviews were glowing, no mean feat for a repeat of a theme. The group really, really enjoyed the movie, as did the almost capacity house at the Rialto. The story was perfectly satisfying, bringing back all the original characters, giving us a fresh script while staying true to the spirit and fun of the first movie. We all highly recommend this movie as a perfect fun, summer movie! We also enjoyed our dinner at the Roy's Town Pub. I think we enjoyed the water dripping off the grapes above the patio, as much as the varied menu. Let's hope for another great evening again this summer!
A Departure - ImageFest: A Multimedia Show of Photographic Art - April 20
We had a departure from our usual fare. We attended the annual presentation put on by the Comox Valley Photographic Society of pictures and videos. There were 9 of us from the group and several other Glacier Probus Members in attendance. The presentation was slick and very enjoyable. I think everyone enjoyed the presentation that featured pears, called Snap Decisions. Who knew that a person could find so much humour in pears and other household objects? Congratulations to the Photographic Society on an excellent evening! Prior to the show, most of us went to dinner at the High Tide Public House, and found the food very good. Great time again!
"Back to Burgundy" - March 11 and "The Leisure Seeker" - March 25
The Movie Group continued to be busy in March, seeing two movies in March. This author was having her own cultural experience in Mexico and was unable to see the movies. However, I'm assured that the movies were good, with most people preferring "The Leisure Seekers". Here are brief descriptions of the movies the group saw:
Back to Burgundy, March 11: Ten years after leaving his native Burgundy to make a tour of the world, Jean returns home with his father who is at the point of death. Once together with his sister Juliette and his brother Jérémie, and following the death of his father just before the beginning of the harvest, Jean will have to find and reinvent his fraternity.
The Leisure Seekers, March 25: Canadian acting legend Donald Sutherland and Academy Award winner Helen Mirren star in this wise and witty road movie set in today’s divided United States. The English-language debut of Italian director Paolo Virzì (Like Crazy), The Leisure Seeker takes an entire country as its canvas and a couple of ageing adventurers as its lovable heroes.
Ella (Mirren) is dying of cancer. John (Sutherland) is suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. Neither is interested in quietly fading away surrounded by nurses and machines just to needlessly prolong a winnowing life. With the end of the road in sight, Ella opts to tune up their vintage RV and hit the highway, travelling from Boston to Florida with John behind the wheel. He may not always be cognizant of the nature of their trip — she assures him it’s just a vacation — but he gets into the spirit. As they pass through cities and towns they see how much the world they know has changed for ill or for good. And they try to leave it on a graceful note.
We are currently planning an outing to Imagefest at the Sid Williams Theatre. While it's not a movie, I think our group will enjoy the multi-media aspects of the Comox Valley Photographic Society's presentation.
Back to Burgundy, March 11: Ten years after leaving his native Burgundy to make a tour of the world, Jean returns home with his father who is at the point of death. Once together with his sister Juliette and his brother Jérémie, and following the death of his father just before the beginning of the harvest, Jean will have to find and reinvent his fraternity.
The Leisure Seekers, March 25: Canadian acting legend Donald Sutherland and Academy Award winner Helen Mirren star in this wise and witty road movie set in today’s divided United States. The English-language debut of Italian director Paolo Virzì (Like Crazy), The Leisure Seeker takes an entire country as its canvas and a couple of ageing adventurers as its lovable heroes.
Ella (Mirren) is dying of cancer. John (Sutherland) is suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. Neither is interested in quietly fading away surrounded by nurses and machines just to needlessly prolong a winnowing life. With the end of the road in sight, Ella opts to tune up their vintage RV and hit the highway, travelling from Boston to Florida with John behind the wheel. He may not always be cognizant of the nature of their trip — she assures him it’s just a vacation — but he gets into the spirit. As they pass through cities and towns they see how much the world they know has changed for ill or for good. And they try to leave it on a graceful note.
We are currently planning an outing to Imagefest at the Sid Williams Theatre. While it's not a movie, I think our group will enjoy the multi-media aspects of the Comox Valley Photographic Society's presentation.
"Film Stars don't Die in Liverpool" - February 11
This movie was one to see if you like fantastic acting! Annette Benning was staggeringly excellent, and Jamie Bell, a British Actor, was stunning. This was another movie based on a true story, so there was a similarity to the previous movie. "The sultry Gloria Grahame won a best supporting actress Oscar for her performance in 1952’s The Bad and the Beautiful. She appeared in films alongside Humphrey Bogart, Robert Mitchum, Lana Turner, Kirk Douglas, and a bevy of other icons. Her star blazed brightly then faded quickly, but she did not disappear. How Grahame spent her later years is the subject of this beautiful — and rare — ode to life after fame.
Film Stars Don’t Die in Liverpool features as fine a performance as you will see this year: Annette Bening’s portrayal of Grahame. She is paired brilliantly with Jamie Bell, who breathes pure empathy into his role as Gloria’s lover Peter Turner, a working-class English actor. Drawing on Turner’s memoir of the same name, director Paul McGuigan fashions a moving narrative that embraces the high and lows of the erstwhile Hollywood star’s time spent living in Liverpool in the 1970s. Gloria is in her fifties, but her vitality and eccentricity leave Peter, who is decades younger, enraptured by this outrageous new force in his life.
As the two embark on their romance, we follow them from England to Los Angeles, from stage to hospital, and from laughter to tears. Unorthodox and sincere, Film Stars Don’t Die in Liverpool is the kind of showbiz love story seldom depicted onscreen." Dinner and/or drinks at the Flying Canoe followed the movie with several discussions about the movie, including who should win "Best Actress" at the Oscars.
Film Stars Don’t Die in Liverpool features as fine a performance as you will see this year: Annette Bening’s portrayal of Grahame. She is paired brilliantly with Jamie Bell, who breathes pure empathy into his role as Gloria’s lover Peter Turner, a working-class English actor. Drawing on Turner’s memoir of the same name, director Paul McGuigan fashions a moving narrative that embraces the high and lows of the erstwhile Hollywood star’s time spent living in Liverpool in the 1970s. Gloria is in her fifties, but her vitality and eccentricity leave Peter, who is decades younger, enraptured by this outrageous new force in his life.
As the two embark on their romance, we follow them from England to Los Angeles, from stage to hospital, and from laughter to tears. Unorthodox and sincere, Film Stars Don’t Die in Liverpool is the kind of showbiz love story seldom depicted onscreen." Dinner and/or drinks at the Flying Canoe followed the movie with several discussions about the movie, including who should win "Best Actress" at the Oscars.
"Bombshell - The Hedy Lamarr Story - January 28
While the writer was unable to attend this movie, I'm assured that the movie was interesting in the way it depicted Hedy Lamarr: Hedy Lamarr was a Hollywood movie star who was hailed as the most beautiful and glamorous in the world. However, that was only the surface that tragically obscured her astounding true talents. Foremost of them was her inventive genius that a world blinded by her beauty could not recognize as far back as her youth in Austria with her homemade gadgets. This film explores Lamarr’s life which included escaping a loveless marriage on the eve of Nazi Germany’s conquest of her nation to a new career in Hollywood. However, her intellectual contributions were denied their due even when she offered them in the service of her new home during World War II. Only after years of career and personal decline in her troubled life would Lamarr learn that her staggering aptitude created brilliant engineering concepts that revolutionized telecommunications, which forced the world to realize the hidden abilities of a woman it had so unfairly underestimated.
"The Breadwinner" - January 14, 2018
The Winter Film Series got under way with this wonderful Academy Award nominee, "director Nora Twomey’s The Breadwinner, based on Deborah Ellis’ award-winning novel, breathes life into the extraordinary story of 11-year-old Afghan girl Parvana, born into an ever-changing world of conflict and oppression, who finds strength in the love of her family and the power of storytelling.In Taliban-controlled Kabul, women and girls are not permitted to leave the house unescorted, to earn money, or to shop for food and supplies in the market. When Parvana’s father, a teacher, is unfairly imprisoned, she must disguise herself as a boy to become her family’s sole breadwinner. Showing courage and perseverance, Parvana does anything she can to support her family, while trying desperately to help free her father." (CVAG film series web site)
We very much enjoyed discussing the movie at dinner afterwards at the White Spot. Dinner was, as always, very enjoyable.
We very much enjoyed discussing the movie at dinner afterwards at the White Spot. Dinner was, as always, very enjoyable.
"Loving Vincent" - November 12, 2017
The Fall Film Series that is put on by CVAG and TIFF concluded with an amazing film! "Loving Vincent" was a story about the supposed suicide of Vincent Van Gogh. The incredible thing about this movie was it was was done using an animation and live action meld using oil painting merged with live action. It took 5 years to film and used over 100 artists to make the entire film look like a painting! It was a vibrant appearing film and the plot was provocative. We discussed it at length at Sushi Wara where we drove through horrible conditions to enjoy great food and conversations!
"Frantz" - October 29, 2017
It has been a good month for movies! The group enjoyed the movie "Frantz" presented as part of the CVAG/TIFF film series. To quote IMDB, "In 1919 Quedlinburg, Germany, a young woman named Anna is still mourning the death of her fiance, Frantz Hoffmeister, in the Great War while living with his equally devastated parents. One day, a mysterious Frenchman, Adrien Rivoire, comes to town both to pay his respects to Frantz's grave and to contact that soldier's parents. Although it is difficult for both sides with the bitterness of Germany's defeat, Adrian explains that he knew Frantz and gradually he wins Anna and the Hoffmeisters' hearts as he tries to connect with them. Unfortunately, Adrien and Anna discover the truth of his motives and things seem shattered for all." However, there's much more to this movie.
When we were at dinner, at Avenue, we all felt the movie was going in one direction, but it didn't. We enjoyed it very much, and found it haunting. The food was delicious at Avenue Bistro, as it always is!
When we were at dinner, at Avenue, we all felt the movie was going in one direction, but it didn't. We enjoyed it very much, and found it haunting. The food was delicious at Avenue Bistro, as it always is!
"Victoria and Abdul" - October 23, 2017
The Movie Group went to the White Spot for an uproarious dinner and followed it up with a non-CVAG movie. The movie "Victoria and Abdul" told the story of Queen Victoria and her close and relationship with an Indian servant. This is based on true events which were considered so scandalous that any correspondence between the two was destroyed after the Queen's death. They were unusually close for a monarch and a common man of different ethnicity from the Queen. It was apparently her idea; his gentle manner being very appealing. He didn't know much about the protocols and was natural and familiar with her, some say more so than her own children, which she appreciated, particularly since the death of her confident John Brown. The movie was excellent and the story fascinating. Most of us went home and researched the history. Remarkable!
"A Trip to Spain" - October 15, 2017
A smaller number of Movie Group members attended this movie. It's part of a series that is part comedy, part drama, and part travelogue. Edie Lindman is our reporter on this one: Steve and Rob wander from restaurant to restaurant, sampling local fare and delivering some hilarious lines and celebrity imitations. A loose story-line of personal reflections and crises unfolds, but it is the twist at the end that underscores the necessity of having good decision-making skills in life.
Thanks, Edie!
Thanks, Edie!
"Churchill" - October 1, 2017
The movie group saw a wonderful rendering of Winston Churchill and his behaviour during the three days leading up to D-Day. It was a stunning performance by Brian Cox. In this version, Churchill is inspiring and certainly a champion for the young men at war, but he's more complex than some would suspect. It was a wonderful movie! Dinner was held at the Blackfin. Excellent and I'm publishing photos of the group for a change! Enjoy! Next - "A Trip to Spain".
"Maudie" - September 17, 2017
Tonight was the first film of the CVAG Fall Film Series and it was a doozie! The movie "Maudie" was acclaimed and was released in theatres this summer. Most of us missed it when it was in Nanaimo, so we were thrilled when it was announced as the first movie of the series. It is the true story of Maud Lewis, a Nova Scotia folk artist, and her struggles with her life, her husband, her town and her art. Maudie was severely affected by rheumatoid arthritis. She was brilliantly played by the incredible Sally Hawkins. A few of our members have visited Maudie's home which plays an important role in the story and has been preserved for folks to visit. There were at least 15 of us at the theatre, and 13 for dinner at Union Street Grill. The next movie is "Churchill" in two weeks!
"Logan Lucky" - August 23, 2017
On Monday night a classy group of movie goers were able to find a movie that didn't have a superhero in it, and went to see the heist movie "Logan Lucky", starring Channing Tatum (not in a pretty boy role), Daniel Craig, Katie Holmes and Adam Driver. This movie was very well rated and did not disappoint! I think all of us commented, after the movie, that this was different, and surprising. Suffice it to say that two good ole boys were very surprising. I think this movie was a bit representative of "Raising Arizona" for me. Dinner was excellent at Kinaree Thai, prior to the movie.
The movie was directed by the acclaimed Steven Soderberg.
There is one movie coming in the fall that the movie group should love. Stay tuned!
The movie was directed by the acclaimed Steven Soderberg.
There is one movie coming in the fall that the movie group should love. Stay tuned!
"The Big Sick" - July 20, 2017
The movie group rallied at the last minute when the call went out that "The Big Sick" was at the Rialto and would be leaving almost as soon as it had arrived. It was brought up on Wednesday and, on Thursday night 9 of our available movie goers were treated to a gem of a movie. Everyone left the movie with a smile on their faces. This movie is a true story about an Indian comedian and his girlfriend. It's, first of all, a comedy and then a poignant drama. The performances by the lead actors Kumail Nanjani and Zoe Kazan were charming and deft. Holly Hunter and Ray Ramono were the well seasoned pros turning in excellent performances, as Zoe's parents. Anupam Kher and Vella Lovell were wonderful as Kumail's parents. This movie tackled some difficult material in a charming and loving way. At a time of big CGI movies, this slice of life film was so refreshing. Prior to the movie, we really enjoyed a dinner at the White Spot where our peals of laughter could probably be heard though the restaurant. We're an hilarious group! |
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"Wonder Woman" - June 3, 2017
The movie group went for a change of pace this week with "Wonder Woman" as our offering! First we met for dinner at the White Spot. It was an enjoyable meal with lots of good conversation. Then we adjourned to the Rialto, carry-in cushions in hand, to see a highly rated new version of a DC superhero's story but this time with a woman as the hero. The movie was well balanced with a storyline, humour, romance, and (of course) action. Another enjoyable evening!
"Their Finest" - April 24, 2017
The Movie Night Group enjoyed an excellent meal at Kinaree Thai in Courtenay. It was nice to be together again as a group as some members have been away. After dinner we headed to the theatre to see the highly rated movie "Their Finest".
We all enjoyed the movie. It was very well done, mixing drama and comedy as we watched a group of writers try to put together a movie using actors of questionable talent, and a script that kept changing while bombs were dropping during the Blitz. The movie was well balanced, and nuanced. The acting was quite stunning. with Bill Nighy being a favourite. The plot was varied and well paced.
Until next time, to coin a phrase from Siskel and Ebert, the balcony is closed.
We all enjoyed the movie. It was very well done, mixing drama and comedy as we watched a group of writers try to put together a movie using actors of questionable talent, and a script that kept changing while bombs were dropping during the Blitz. The movie was well balanced, and nuanced. The acting was quite stunning. with Bill Nighy being a favourite. The plot was varied and well paced.
Until next time, to coin a phrase from Siskel and Ebert, the balcony is closed.
CVAG Film Series - "Moonlight" - March 19
Our film series group enjoyed the last movie of the season, "Moonlight". This movie was the Best Picture Winner at the Academy Awards this past February, so the showing was timely. The group leader was absent, but viewed the movie at another date, and will assure you that this was an excellent, hard hitting movie.
CVAG Film Series - "Little Men" - Feb. 5
A tough group of movie lovers braved the snow tonight and saw the movie "Little Men" with Greg Kinnear. This was a slow study of characters and two families, trying to figure out how to deal with a rather difficult situation left them by a deceased relative. The young sons, who became fast friends, had their friendship tested by the circumstances of their parents. The group was not as enthusiastic about this movie has they have been in the past. However, we had a very congenial dinner at Boston Pizza after the movie which made it all worthwhile. What a nice group of people I get to organize!
CVAG Film Series - Denial - January 22
The Comox Valley Film Series continued with "Denial" with Tom Wilkinson and Rachel Weisz. The members attending thought this was an excellent film. This 2016 movie is based on a true story of the legal battle between Deborah Lipstadt, an American Jewish university professor and David Irving, a well known British holocaust denier. The case is conducted in Britain. The British legal system operates differently than that in North America. The strategy and court room scenes are riveting and suspenseful. Dinner was held at Fluid and was enjoyed by all! The group enjoys their menu!
"La La Land" and "Hidden Figures" January 18th
The group went to see these two movies. Some of us had already seen "La La Land" so the others went to see "Hidden Figures". "La La Land" was wonderful as was promised by all the publicity and "Hidden Figures" was a very inspiring movie...and educational! Dinner was held before at the Union Street Grill.
January Film Series Starts January 8th
The next film series is coming up right on the heels of New Year’s Eve. The dates are January 8 and 22, February 5 and 19, and March 5 and 19. The passes should be available at the Comox Valley Art Gallery, and individual tickets can be purchased soon. They are keeping a wait list for people who want individual tickets for the movie on January 8th.
The movies they’ve firmed up, so far, are:
“The Eagle Huntress” - http://www.tiff.net/films/the-eagle-huntress This looks fabulous, with a 92% approval on Rotten Tomatoes. This will likely be the first film.
“Little Men” - https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/little_men_2016/ This movie gets a 92% on Rotten Tomatoes and is the story of two boys and how their life is impacted by family upheaval. Set in New York City.
“Jean of the Joneses” - Gets 80% on Rotten Tomatoes. http://www.tiff.net/films/jean-of-the-joneses This is a " whip-smart tale about the twentysomething scion of an all-female Brooklyn clan”.
Also, likely to be two of the movies are:
“Searchers” - A northern fable filmed in Nunavit.
“Denial” - A woman is forced to prove the Holocaust existed.
Please get your passes soon, and I’ll be in touch in early January about where the meals will be. I think these movies look wonderful and are all very distinctive!
The movies they’ve firmed up, so far, are:
“The Eagle Huntress” - http://www.tiff.net/films/the-eagle-huntress This looks fabulous, with a 92% approval on Rotten Tomatoes. This will likely be the first film.
“Little Men” - https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/little_men_2016/ This movie gets a 92% on Rotten Tomatoes and is the story of two boys and how their life is impacted by family upheaval. Set in New York City.
“Jean of the Joneses” - Gets 80% on Rotten Tomatoes. http://www.tiff.net/films/jean-of-the-joneses This is a " whip-smart tale about the twentysomething scion of an all-female Brooklyn clan”.
Also, likely to be two of the movies are:
“Searchers” - A northern fable filmed in Nunavit.
“Denial” - A woman is forced to prove the Holocaust existed.
Please get your passes soon, and I’ll be in touch in early January about where the meals will be. I think these movies look wonderful and are all very distinctive!
Rouge One
A group of seven happy movie goers enjoyed seeing "Rogue One". This movie was NOT a Star Wars movie but the story does dovetail with the original Star Wars in a meaningful way. It was full of action and excitement. Before the movie we had dinner at the White Spot. This was a good break for all from the maddness of preparing for Christmas!
The Dressmaker - Fall 2016 Film Series Movie
On November 13th, the Movie Group finished up the Fall Film Series presented by the CVAG and the TIFF (Toronto International Film Festival). The movie we saw was "The Dressmaker" starring Kate Winslet, Liam Hemsworth and Judy Davis. The movie was quirky, and funny. It had an odd connection to the previous film "Hevn" in that it was about revenge. Imagine a film that begins with a western style opening but the heroine, instead of packing a six gun, packed a sewing machine. She straightens out the town, albeit temporarily, by sewing magnificent creations. Then, a new seamstress moves in and things get even more complicated. We all thought that the ending, which involved a rather unique red carpet event, was stunning!
Dinner after was a Sushi Wara. The meal was delicious.
We will now endeavour to see some "normal" movies. Watch for an email coming to your inbox soon.
Dinner after was a Sushi Wara. The meal was delicious.
We will now endeavour to see some "normal" movies. Watch for an email coming to your inbox soon.
"Hevn (Revenge)" - Fall 2016 Film Series Movie
The Movie Group attended the movie "Hevn (Revenge)" last week. This was the fourth of the Comox Valley Art Gallery/Toronto International Film Series movies to be shown. This was a beautifully filmed movie set in Norway. No one came away from the movie not wanting to go to Norway! The scenery was just stunningly captured, and the group surmised that the use of drones allowed the film makers to capture really amazing scenery. The plot of the movie was a tad less beautiful, but was excellent. There was definitely an aspect of revenge present throughout the movie, which culminated in the ultimate revenge (not death). This was not a violent film but had a violent ending which was not witnessed, having taken place off screen. We all got the point though!
The final movie of the season will be on November 13th, titled "The Dressmaker", set in Australia, and starring Kate Winslet and Liam Hemsworth. They have an extra showing of this movie so contact the CVAG for information.
The final movie of the season will be on November 13th, titled "The Dressmaker", set in Australia, and starring Kate Winslet and Liam Hemsworth. They have an extra showing of this movie so contact the CVAG for information.
"Into the Forest" - Fall 2016 Film Series Movie
Tonight the Movie Group attended the third movie in the CVAG/TIFF Film Series. The movie was "Into the Forest" with Ellen Page and Evan Rachel Wood. It is a Canadian Film, produced by Ellen Page. The movie's subject was the beginning of a post-apocalyptic world and how it affected one family living in the rainforest. The movie was filmed north of Vancouver and on Vancouver Island. It provided an interesting look at life when all sources of communication suddenly stop working. Will the family survive many months after the power has been cut? How will they manage, having relied heavily on their electronics? How will society act as a whole, or will the family and the viewers even know, with communications being unavailable? It was a provocative film!
Dinner afterwards was held at the Cornerstone Pub.
The next film is Hevn (Revenge) - a Norwegian movie. October 30 5:00.
Dinner afterwards was held at the Cornerstone Pub.
The next film is Hevn (Revenge) - a Norwegian movie. October 30 5:00.
"Genius" - Fall 2016 Film Series Movie
Tonight (Sunday, October 2) we saw the movie "Genius" with Colin Firth, Jude Law, Nicole Kidman and Laura Linney. Everyone really appreciated the movie. It was about Thomas Wolfe and his editor Maxwell Perkins and included Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald and their relationship with Maxwell Perkins. This was an intense movie about the nature of writing and the role of the editor. It was a fine film and everyone agreed that Jude Law gave an amazing performance!
We then retired to Fluids where we had great food and conversation. This is a very good restaurant with a nice variety on the menu. We recommend it to all of you. Next movie in two weeks! Can't wait!
We then retired to Fluids where we had great food and conversation. This is a very good restaurant with a nice variety on the menu. We recommend it to all of you. Next movie in two weeks! Can't wait!
"Love and Friendship" - First Fall 2016 Film Series Movie
This Sunday, September 18th, the Movie Group attended the first of five films put on by the Comox Valley Art Gallery, in conjunction with the Toronto International Film Festival. The movie we saw was "Love and Friendship" with Kate Beckinsale and Chloë Savigny. It was based on a Jane Austen novella called "Lady Susan". The movie was a period piece with lots of humour and well written dialogue. No one in the group wanted to learn the lines the actors had to memorize! Afterwards we went to dinner at the White Whale, and we had a GREAT time, talking about everything under the sun (and in the grocery store - inside joke). The next movie, "Genius" with Nicole Kidman and Jude Law, is October 2 at 5:00. The CVAG may still have tickets available if you're interested.
This group is really jelling. It's so nice to go out to a movie with friends and enjoy a good chat afterwards! The 5:00 start allows this.
This group is really jelling. It's so nice to go out to a movie with friends and enjoy a good chat afterwards! The 5:00 start allows this.
Movie Night goes to CVAG - TIFF Film Series - 2016
Interested members of the Movie Group will be attending the CVAG - TIFF Film Series. These take place on Sunday evenings at 5:00 with dinner at a different restaurant where discussion will ensue. Season Tickets are now sold out but individual tickets are available. Have a gander at some of the movies we will be seeing and head to the Art Gallery if you’re interesting in one or more!
Regular movie nights may be organized as well. Contact Vicki if you’re interested in seeing one.
2016 Fall Film Series:
“ Love and Friendship” - September 18 @ 5:00
Writer-director Whit Stillman departs from the milieu of the contemporary New York upper crust that he so memorably explored in such films as Damsels in Distress, The Last Days of Disco and Metropolitan for this sharp-tongued and riotously funny examination of 18th-century polite society. Adapting Jane Austen’s long-unpublished epistolary novella Lady Susan, Stillman creates a period piece whose spirit is unmistakably modern.
“Genius” - October 2 @ 5:00
Renowned editor Maxwell Perkins (Colin Firth) develops a friendship with author Thomas Wolfe (Jude Law) while working on the writer's manuscripts. Also Starring Nicole Kidman and Laura Linney.
“Into the Forest” - October 16 @ 5:00
In the wilds of the Pacific Northwest, two sisters (Ellen Page, Evan Rachel Wood) must fight for survival after an apocalyptic blackout leaves them without gas, water, electricity or cellphones.
“Hven” (Possibly…not firmed up yet) - Probably October 30 @ 5:00
The feature debut from writer-director Kjersti G. Steinsbø, Hevn is a gripping combination of psychological drama and revenge thriller set against the majestic backdrop of the Norwegian fjords.
“The Dressmaker” - November 13 @ 5:00
In 1950s Australia, beautiful, talented dressmaker Tilly returns to her tiny hometown to right wrongs from her past. As she tries to reconcile with her mother, she starts to fall in love while transforming the fashion of the town.
Regular movie nights may be organized as well. Contact Vicki if you’re interested in seeing one.
2016 Fall Film Series:
“ Love and Friendship” - September 18 @ 5:00
Writer-director Whit Stillman departs from the milieu of the contemporary New York upper crust that he so memorably explored in such films as Damsels in Distress, The Last Days of Disco and Metropolitan for this sharp-tongued and riotously funny examination of 18th-century polite society. Adapting Jane Austen’s long-unpublished epistolary novella Lady Susan, Stillman creates a period piece whose spirit is unmistakably modern.
“Genius” - October 2 @ 5:00
Renowned editor Maxwell Perkins (Colin Firth) develops a friendship with author Thomas Wolfe (Jude Law) while working on the writer's manuscripts. Also Starring Nicole Kidman and Laura Linney.
“Into the Forest” - October 16 @ 5:00
In the wilds of the Pacific Northwest, two sisters (Ellen Page, Evan Rachel Wood) must fight for survival after an apocalyptic blackout leaves them without gas, water, electricity or cellphones.
“Hven” (Possibly…not firmed up yet) - Probably October 30 @ 5:00
The feature debut from writer-director Kjersti G. Steinsbø, Hevn is a gripping combination of psychological drama and revenge thriller set against the majestic backdrop of the Norwegian fjords.
“The Dressmaker” - November 13 @ 5:00
In 1950s Australia, beautiful, talented dressmaker Tilly returns to her tiny hometown to right wrongs from her past. As she tries to reconcile with her mother, she starts to fall in love while transforming the fashion of the town.
Movie Night - September 12
On Monday, September 12, the Movie Group saw "The Light between Oceans, starring Michael Fassbender and Alicia Vikander. This was a British movie based on the popular novel. It was an elegant and gently paced drama. Those in attendance reported enjoying it a great deal. Dinner was held before the movie at the White Spot.
Movie Night - August 29
"Florence Foster Jenkins" finally arrived at our theatre this week which the Movie Group attended on Monday night. We had a record number of folks attending the dinner and even more (by 2) at the theatre. There were 19 of us at the movie. Everyone just loved it and highly recommends it! Dinner before the movie was at Kinaree Thai food and that was a hit too.
It's has been a very difficult summer to get folks together for movies. I'm afraid there isn't much for the tastes of our group. When there is, though, we really enjoy it!
The tickets are on sale for the CVAG/TIFF film series which kicks of on September 18th. Get your tickets at the Comox Valley Art Gallery. More information about the dinner will be forthcoming.
It's has been a very difficult summer to get folks together for movies. I'm afraid there isn't much for the tastes of our group. When there is, though, we really enjoy it!
The tickets are on sale for the CVAG/TIFF film series which kicks of on September 18th. Get your tickets at the Comox Valley Art Gallery. More information about the dinner will be forthcoming.
Movie Night - May 28, 2016 - Field Trip!
A new day and a new place! Saturday afternoon found a small but eager group in Campbell River for a late Matinee. We saw "The Nice Guys" with Ryan Gosling and Russell Crowe. It was a comedy set in the 1970s and we talked about how much things have changed since then, at dinner. We then adjourned to Dick's Fish and Chips which is no longer on the docks but across from Discovery Pier. It was high and dry and the fish was delicious! Another successful outing, and our first Field Trip!
Movie Night - May 15th, 2016
Our members attended the movie "Money Madness" on Sunday night. The group first met at 5:30 at Sushi Wara, one of the Comox Valley's best sushi places. Then it was off to the movie to enjoy George Clooney and Julia Roberts in a tense story about a television financial wizard, whose live show is held hostage by a man trying to make a stand with respect to a loss in a trade he's made. Complications ensue and we're not too sure who the hero and villain are. Stay tuned to the next movie night!
Movie Night - June 28th, 2015
Hello Movie Fans: It is once again time to decide what movie we'll see this Sunday - June 28th. In keeping with the idea of alternating between Brunch and a Matinee and Dinner and a Movie, this week will be Brunch and a Matinee. If we get a group of 5 or more, we can make a reservation at Atlas. If we don't, then we will meet at the White Spot. The movies that are available at the Rialto are listed below. Please indicate your interest by selecting the movie you'd prefer to see, in the form below. If you have a second choice, please write it in the Comment section, along with any other comments. Please be sure to check a website if you are not sure about the movies. I use rotten tomatoes.com but there are many.
We saw Spy two weeks ago, and everyone thoroughly enjoyed the movie! Before that we saw Aloha. There's a report on the Activities page.
In the past, we had the brunch on a Sunday but the evening movie on a Wednesday. I would like to see if you want to return to this practise so there's an additional question in the form.
We saw Spy two weeks ago, and everyone thoroughly enjoyed the movie! Before that we saw Aloha. There's a report on the Activities page.
In the past, we had the brunch on a Sunday but the evening movie on a Wednesday. I would like to see if you want to return to this practise so there's an additional question in the form.
- Inside Out
- 3:50PM
- Inside Out (3D)
- 1:00PM
- 7:10PM
- 9:45PM
- Jurassic World
- 3:20PM
- Jurassic World (3D)
- 12:30PM
- 6:30PM
- 9:30PM
- Spy
- 12:45PM
- 3:35PM
- 6:45PM
- 9:40PM
- Love & Mercy
- 12:40PM
- 3:30PM
- 6:55PM
- 9:35PM
Movie Night - June 14th
Hello Movie Fans: It's time for our next Movie Night. We will go to a movie of your democratic choosing on Sunday, June 14th with dinner at around 5:00 p.m. first, and then the earlier movie (around 7:00). We actually did this last time, but there were only four of us, so I thought we'd have dinner this week, and, in two weeks, have another brunch and movie day. The weather will be nice this weekend so we will probably enjoy the outdoor time in the afternoon. I'd love you to join us! Please fill in the survey below to determine the movie we'll see. In the comment section, please let me know of any restaurants you would recommend. For this week, I thought we'd try Fluid, which is at 1175 Cliffe Avenue in Courtenay - http://fluidbarandgrill.com . I've looked at the menu and there's a nice selection of meals and prices. I will make a reservation once the numbers in so please select your pleasure and submit it by Thursday, June 9th.
The movies this week are:
The movies this week are:
- Spy
- 12:45PM
- 3:45PM
- 6:50PM
- 9:35PM
- Insidious: Chapter 3
- 12:50PM
- 3:20PM
- 7:00PM
- 9:25PM
- Jurassic WorldRelease date: 06/12/2015
- 3:30PM
- Jurassic World (3D)Release date: 06/12/2015
- 12:30PM
- 6:30PM
- 9:30PM
- San Andreas
- 3:40PM
- San Andreas (3D)
Movie Night - May 31
and Canadian Movie Night - June 3
Now it's your turn to let me know what you want! Please fill out the form.
Hi Movie Fans: I'm setting up a movie for Sunday, May 31st. There are choices! Please check the reviews on rotten tomatoes.com or any other moviesite. if you have any doubts about the suitability of any of the movies where you're concerned. We will attend on Sunday evening, the earlier of the shows. I thought it might be nice to eat at the White Spot. I've tried twice and once it was closed and the next time we didn't go to a movie at all. It is open and looks great!
Please note that the Canadian Movie Night is June 3 - next Wednesday. The movie is Berkshire County, but it's NOT a charming British movie. It's a horror film. If you're interested please check the box below.
Here's a List of the Movies and Times Available For Sunday
Tomorrowland - 6:30
San Andreas - 6:55
- Aloha - 7:05
Mad Max 3D - 6:40
Tomorrowland - 6:30
San Andreas - 6:55
Mad Max 3D - 6:40
Movie Night - Woman in Gold - Held April 26th
Hello movie fans! Now that the Snowbirds are home the mood has turned to our interest in films. We attended "Woman in Gold" with Helen Mirren, Ryan Reynolds and Katie Holmes last Sunday, April 26th. We had the usual suspects attending brunch at The Beachwood Cafe, which was excellent. Then it was on to the movie, which everyone agreed was really good. It was a gentle story about a woman seeking a painting that had belonged to her family when they lived in Austria before the Nazi regime took the painting. There was a lot of suspense in wondering if justice would ever be found. The movie was based on a true story. However, I think the movie was about the relationship of Helen Mirren's character and Ryan Reynold's.
It was an enjoyable afternoon. Luckily the weather was poor, so we felt fine with being indoors and warm!
This Wednesday, May 6 at 7:00, we are going to see "88" which is part of a monthly night featuring Canadian Films. This won't be a gentle movie, and our group has such eclectic and adventurous tastes, we should enjoy a shift of pace. Please email Vicki (robinandvicki@yahoo.ca) if you're interested in attending!
See you at the movies!
It was an enjoyable afternoon. Luckily the weather was poor, so we felt fine with being indoors and warm!
This Wednesday, May 6 at 7:00, we are going to see "88" which is part of a monthly night featuring Canadian Films. This won't be a gentle movie, and our group has such eclectic and adventurous tastes, we should enjoy a shift of pace. Please email Vicki (robinandvicki@yahoo.ca) if you're interested in attending!
See you at the movies!
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Regular Movies Group Events
Hello folks! Happy Spring! It's time to get ourselves back to the movies. For now I'm going to go with every two weeks, probably on a Sunday and ask you if you want to do Brunch or Dinner. If you have strong feelings about this, then please email me and I'll see what I can do. Majority rules, of course. I strongly and eagerly encourage all to come and enjoy a meal or a cup of coffee or a drink to make this a true social event. We have had enjoyable gatherings in the past!
I have several forms for you to fill in and several comment forms for you to express you own ideas, if you so choose. Please fill in all three forms. One is for the movie, one is for the meal we share before or after, and one is to see if there is interest in the Canadian Movie Night - see below.
Margaret has brought to my attention there is a Canadian Movie Night at the Rialto once a month on Wednesdays. I'll include this in the survey and see if some of you are interested. I think it may be a good option for those of us who like our movies on the different, and less mainstream side of things. I like both!
This next Sunday we are presented with:
"The Age of Adeline": 12:40, 3:30 and 6:45 pm - Blake Lively, Harrison Ford
Adaline (Blake Lively) ceases to age following an accident one icy night, but keeps her condition a closely-guarded secret while embarking on a number of incredible adventures throughout the 20th Century. After years of a solitary life, she finds the love and courage that enable her to fully begin living.
"Paul Blart Mall Cop 2": 9:25 pm - Kevin James
This is probably too late, and probably not in our taste spectrum but It's about Paul Blart a Mall Cop and is meant to be a comedy.
"Furious 7": 12:25, 3:25, 6:30 pm - Vin Diesel, Paul Walker.
Continuing the global exploits in the unstoppable franchise built on speed, Vin Diesel, Paul Walker and Dwayne Johnson lead the returning cast of Furious 7. This is actually well rated on Rotten Tomatoes.
"Woman in Gold" - 12:30, 3:15, 6:50 - Helen Mirren, Ryan Reynolds, Katie Holmes
Maria Altmann, an octogenarian Jewish refugee, takes on the government to recover artwork she believes rightfully belongs to her family.
The link for the Canadian Movie Night sight is http://www.landmarkcinemas.com/courtenay/experiences/experiences-detail?event=CIFSCourtenay.
Next Event Date & Time: Sunday, April 26th
Next Event Location: Rialto
Signup closes end of day: Thursday, April 23
Submissions are to go to: Vicki Mathew
I have several forms for you to fill in and several comment forms for you to express you own ideas, if you so choose. Please fill in all three forms. One is for the movie, one is for the meal we share before or after, and one is to see if there is interest in the Canadian Movie Night - see below.
Margaret has brought to my attention there is a Canadian Movie Night at the Rialto once a month on Wednesdays. I'll include this in the survey and see if some of you are interested. I think it may be a good option for those of us who like our movies on the different, and less mainstream side of things. I like both!
This next Sunday we are presented with:
"The Age of Adeline": 12:40, 3:30 and 6:45 pm - Blake Lively, Harrison Ford
Adaline (Blake Lively) ceases to age following an accident one icy night, but keeps her condition a closely-guarded secret while embarking on a number of incredible adventures throughout the 20th Century. After years of a solitary life, she finds the love and courage that enable her to fully begin living.
"Paul Blart Mall Cop 2": 9:25 pm - Kevin James
This is probably too late, and probably not in our taste spectrum but It's about Paul Blart a Mall Cop and is meant to be a comedy.
"Furious 7": 12:25, 3:25, 6:30 pm - Vin Diesel, Paul Walker.
Continuing the global exploits in the unstoppable franchise built on speed, Vin Diesel, Paul Walker and Dwayne Johnson lead the returning cast of Furious 7. This is actually well rated on Rotten Tomatoes.
"Woman in Gold" - 12:30, 3:15, 6:50 - Helen Mirren, Ryan Reynolds, Katie Holmes
Maria Altmann, an octogenarian Jewish refugee, takes on the government to recover artwork she believes rightfully belongs to her family.
The link for the Canadian Movie Night sight is http://www.landmarkcinemas.com/courtenay/experiences/experiences-detail?event=CIFSCourtenay.
Next Event Date & Time: Sunday, April 26th
Next Event Location: Rialto
Signup closes end of day: Thursday, April 23
Submissions are to go to: Vicki Mathew
Signup Page Link - Movies Signup