"Life of Chuck" plays Sunday, Sept. 14 at ISU

Submitted by rode on Thu, 07/31/2025 - 13:26
Toronto Film Festival Winner
Sunday, September 14
4:00 & 7:00 p.m.
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Based on the story by Stephen King, Tom Hiddleston and Mark Hamill star in this fascinating story about the formative moments in the life of Charles "Chuck" Krantz, chronicled in reverse chronological order, from the end of the universe to his childhood. The San Jose Mercury news writes, "It’s an unexpected emotional wallop that knocks you off your feet. 'The Life of Chuck' pricks the soul like that even as it warms our aching hearts." Admission is $3 for the public, $2 for ISU staff/faculty, and free for ISU students with a Bengal ID.

"Penguin Lessons" on Sunday, Sept. 7 at ISU

Submitted by rode on Thu, 07/31/2025 - 13:22
Sunday, September 7
4:00 & 7:00 p.m.
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Acclaimed comedy/drama "The Penguin Lessons" returns in an encore night, showing Sunday, September 7 at 4 and 7 p.m. at the Bengal Theater. Based on a true story, an Englishman who takes a teaching position abroad experiences personal and political changes after adopting a penguin during a turbulent time in Argentina's history. The Observer writes, "The Penguin Lessons is a work of surprising depth and subtle, irresistible impact," while the Washington Post writes, "It's about finding the courage to stand up to injustice at one’s own peril." Admission is $3 for the public, $2 for ISU staff/faculty, and free for ISU students with a Bengal ID.

"Legend of Ochi" plays August 31 at ISU

Submitted by rode on Wed, 07/23/2025 - 20:47
Sunday, August 31
4:00 & 7:00 p.m.
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In a remote country, a young girl learns to never go outside after dark because of reclusive forest creatures known as the ochi. However, when a baby ochi is left behind by its pack, she embarks on the adventure of a lifetime to reunite it with its family. "It serves up a nourishing banquet for the senses," writes the New York Times, while Deadline Hollywood calls it "A breath of fresh air and a stunning visual treat that will appeal well beyond the youngest members in the household." Admission is $3 for the public, $2 for ISU staff and free for ISU students with a Bengal ID.

"Greatest Showman" plays Sunday, Aug. 24 at ISU (FREE)

Submitted by rode on Wed, 07/23/2025 - 06:56
FREE Movie Night!!!
Sunday, August 24
4:00 & 7:00 p.m.
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In this highly fictionalized musical version of the PT Barnum story, a young man becomes inspired to seek fame and fortune through the sensationalized circus shows with flash and oddities, but along the way he must sort out what's important in life. Entertainment Weekly calls it, "A lavish candybox musical bursting with broad strokes, bright colors, and bearded ladies," while Variety magazine adds, "'The Greatest Showman' wants to give you a splashy good time, and does, and it's got something that takes you by surprise: a genuine romantic spirit." Admission is free for all. Donations are appreciated, but not required.

"Jane Austen Wrecked My Life" on Fri, August 8 at ISU

Submitted by rode on Wed, 07/23/2025 - 06:23
Friday, August 8
5:00 & 7:30 p.m.
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Awkward but up and coming writer Agathe gets invited to the Jane Austen Writers' Residency in England. Caught in an unexpected romantic triangle, she must let go of her insecurities to decide what she really wants for herself. The Guardian writes, "This funny and smart French comedy gives us a 21st-century Jane Austen. British-French actor Camille Rutherford is terrific." Admission is $3 for the public, $2 for ISU staff/faculty and free for ISU students with Bengal ID.

Film Society's Next Show:

Submitted by rode on Wed, 07/23/2025 - 06:18
Friday, August 1
5:00 & 7:30 p.m.
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In this acclaimed folk music tale, Dandelion, a struggling but determined singer-songwriter, meets a guitarist who walked away from his dream long ago and the two kindred spirits make music together that leads Dandelion to a deeper appreciation of her artistic journey and the discovery of a voice that is authentically her own. The Hollywood Reporter writes, "Dandelion is alive with a persuasive friction that taps into a potent feeling of life... The songwriter turns flash points of memory — the gifts and the treachery alike — into fuel for her art...A kind of musical gold that’s nothing short of exhilarating." Admission is $3 for the public, $2 for ISU staff/faculty, and free for ISU students with a Bengal ID.

"Ballad of Wallis Island" at ISU Friday, June 6

Submitted by rode on Tue, 05/13/2025 - 21:10
Friday, June 6
5:00 & 7:30 p.m.
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This Sundance Film Festival honoree is an acclaimed indie comedy/drama that follows an eccentric millionaire who pays his favorite musical duo to come to his island to perform a concert. The only problem is the duo has broken up and each don't know the other is coming. Amy Nicholson of the Los Angeles Times writes, "It’s something almost as rare as a revelation: a crowdpleaser I’d recommend to everyone, and I have... and now I’m tipping you off, too." Admission is $3 for the public,$2 for ISU staff/faculty and free for ISU students with a Bengal ID.

"Black Bag" plays Friday, May 16 at ISU

Submitted by rode on Sun, 04/27/2025 - 21:24
Friday, May 16
5:00 & 7:30 p.m.
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George and Kathryn are part of a covert group of government operatives. When his beloved wife, Kathryn, is suspected of betraying the nation, intelligence agent George Woodhouse faces the ultimate test -- loyalty to his marriage or his country. Salon calls it, "Movie-watching at its finest... bound to be as enjoyable on a plane or on that comfy couch as it is in the theater. Just make no mistake: This is the most delightful moviegoing experience you can have this year." Admission is $3 for the public,$2 for ISU staff/faculty and free for ISU students with a Bengal ID.