Just like winter weather, this year’s Oscar results may soon be a fading memory. However, there are some facts that should be remembered. If my math is correct, 41 features were nominated for an Oscar and twelve features received at least one award. Also noteworthy this year was the representation of independent films not only as Oscar contenders, but also as actual Oscar recipients. The Art House Theater has been pleased to present several Oscar-nominated, independent films during the past few weeks including Babel, Notes on a Scandal, Last King of Scotland, and Volver. The Art House Theater will continue to screen quality films with the following Spring selections:

Venus (through April 12)
(2006, Runtime: 95 minutes, Rated: R)

Venus tells the story of Maurice (Peter O’Toole) and Ian (Leslie Phillips), a pair of veteran actors who never quite hit the big time. Now in their "golden years," they continue to work, though the jobs are far from glamorous. But their comfortable routine and witty banter over breakfast in a favorite café is disrupted by the arrival of Ian’s grand-niece, Jessie (newcomer Jodie Whittaker).

Jessie quickly tries her great uncle’s patience but Maurice is absolutely taken with the young woman and proceeds to show her the cultural sights of London. As Maurice tries to give Jessie the benefit of his experience, he is surprised to discover how very little he knows about himself now that his life is drawing to a close. Jessie, who had arrived with an enormous chip on her shoulder, slowly learns from Maurice the value of respect for herself as well as others. Peter O’Toole was nominated for an Oscar for Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role.

Amazing Grace (April 13–26)
(2006, Runtime: 111 minutes, Rated: PG)

Amazing Grace explores the life of anti-slavery pioneer William Wilberforce (Ioan Gruffudd). Elected to the House of Commons at the age of 21 and on his way to a successful political career, Wilberforce spent two decades persuading the English establishment and those in power to end the inhumane trade of slavery.

Romola Garai plays Barbara Spooner, a beautiful and headstrong young woman who shares Wilberforce’s passion for reform, and who becomes his wife after a whirlwind courtship.

Directed by Michael Apted, Amazing Grace also stars Albert Finney, Michael Gambon, Benedict Cumberbatch, Rufus Sewell, and introduces Youssou N’Dour.

Oscar Nominated Shorts

Even if you are not a fan of the shorts film or familiar with what a short film is, Ari Sandel’s acceptance speech for the Best Live Action Short, West Bank Story, definitely had to appeal to your interest. This film is a musical comedy set in the fast-paced, fast-food world of competing falafel stands on the West Bank. You will be able to see West Bank Story, as well as the other Oscar-nominated shorts Binta and the Great Idea, One Too Many, Helmer and Son, and The Saviour on Sunday, April 22 at 2:00 p.m. in the upstairs screening room at the Movies at Midway. The Oscar Nominated Shorts screening is free to RBFS members. A suggested $3.00 donation is requested of nonmembers.

Another Take