There are those movies that you decide to casually rent on the weekends because you have nothing else going on, and those that you say, “I need to see this on the biggest screen possible.” Thankfully, for the city of Madison, the construction of Union South has given any patron a brilliant movie theater: The Marquee.
The slanted, red-cushioned seats and the large screen resemble that of a classic cinema theater. Every featured film is chosen by the student organization WUD Film, and genres range from the classic “car explosion” movies, to independent indie films magnifying cultural struggles. Although the days of March are numbered, WUD Film has managed to pack enough films into these last two weeks for everyone’s enjoyment.
Late this afternoon, there is the unique showing of the documentary, “Tapped” at 4:00 p.m. Drinking out of bottled water has become a habit to most of society, but have we stopped to think about its affects on the world? This documentary shows that what seemed to be a useful invention for the human race, may have turned out to be destruction of our future. However, it is not just the fault of consumers; Corporations, along with the government, have made it so the production of these plastic bottles still continues. Become informed on this subject and perhaps bring a reusable water bottle to drink out of during the film, instead of purchasing a bottle of coke at the grocery store.
Exploring cultural struggles is just as important as learning about environmental issues. So after “Tapped,” the documentary “Fordson: Faith, Fasting, Football” will be featured at 7:00 p.m. to open everyone’s eyes to the lives of a high school football team residing in Dearborn, Mich. After the tragedy of 9/11, the Islamic community has struggled to regain acceptance and at the high school of Fordson, we see and hear many inspirational and informative stories that come together to create this documentary.
All great things come in three’s, including documentaries. “The Greatest Movie Ever Sold,” shown March 22 at 7:00 p.m., will not only inform you, but also keep you entertained. From the directors of “Super Size Me,” this film explores the world of advertising as it seeks to create a movie solely funded by advertisers. With both hilarious and depressing revelations about our advertising world, Morgan Spurlock tries to convey that the only time we are not surrounded by advertising is when we are sleeping. Of which you will not be doing during this documentary.
After you’ve had your fill of documentaries, brace yourself for a weekend of suspense, mystery and wonder beginning March 22. The brilliant actors Gary Oldman and Colin Firth star in “Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy.” Set in the years of the Cold War, this film is filled with paranoia and conspiracy within the British intelligence and the Soviet agency. This puzzle of a movie will have your mind constantly working, trying to figure out the truth buried in the plot. Who will you confide in?
Speaking of reliance, if midnight shows are your thing, stay for the classic “The Matrix” after “Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy” on March 23 at midnight. The question is not to see this film—it is the choice between the blue pill and the red pill, Mr. Anderson.
Also adding to the adventure films for the weekend, “The Adventures of Tintin” will fascinate all audience members by its remarkable animation. Based on one of the most popular comics of the 20th century in Europe, this film follows the character Tintin on his investigative journalism adventures. Accompanied by his companion, a white fox terrier named Snowy, Tintin finds himself on a voyage through the streets of Europe to mirage filled deserts, all linking to the mystery of a sailing ship. The combination of genius from Steven Spielberg and Peter Jackson guarantees a film with intense plot lines and film effects one cannot forget.
Even though thrillers fill us with excitement, short films also have the ability to grab our attention just as much. The afternoon of March 24 will be dedicated to the collection of Lebanese short films as WUD Film collaborates with the Lebanese Student Association. This short film fest includes movies such as “All Birds Whistle, My Father is still a Communist: Intimate Secrets to be Published,” and “My Ball.” More will be shown, and a discussion will also be available after the films.
By spending just two hours enjoying a film, the screen eventually disappears and one becomes immersed in another reality. So, forget schoolwork, stressful relationships or job responsibilities for a couple hours. With free admission, it’s hard to resist the many opportunities WUD Film gives any individual to enjoy these films, especially those that deserve the full screen.
What films are you looking forward to this week? Let Erin know at eberge@wisc.edu.
