“Ruins” of the School of Ballet at the National Art Schools campus in Cuba, explored by the film “Unfinished Spaces”
If you’re an indie film fanatic, this might just be your lucky week. There are three independent documentaries you can catch this week in the neighborhood.
The first, as was already mentioned, is a screening of “Unfinished Spaces,” at the Latino Cultural Center, 2600 Live Oak Street on Jan. 9 at 6:30 p.m. The film is about the rediscovery of Cuba’s National Art Schools’ project, which was begun in the 1960’s at the bidding of Fidel Castro and then abandoned. Reserve a spot at info@dallascfa.com, and write “Unfinished Spaces” in the subject line.
Next up, on Friday, Jan. 11th is a showing of the documentary “A Reason to Live,” by Lakewood’s documentary duo Allen Mondell and Cynthia Salzman Mondell. You can watch this film from the comfort of your own couch by tuning into KERA on Channel 13 at 9 p.m.
The Mondells created “A Reason to Live” after their friends’ son committed suicide. In the wake of the tragedy, the Mondell’s friends urged the Mondells to create a documentary exploring teen depressed and suicide. Allen Mondell says the film features several young people from the area who attempted suicide, as well as the parents of suicidal teens. The Mondells’ hope is that the film will open the door to conversations about suicide and depression and encourage teens who are considering suicide to seek help. Go to the website for more information and to watch the trailer.
Taken from Facebook
And last but certainly not least, a special treat for my Beatles fans. On Sunday, Jan. 13th, “31 Days: The Beatles First American Tour,” by East Dallas filmmaker Robert Greeson, is playing at Lakewood Theater at 7 p.m.
As suggested by the name, the film is about The Beatles first tour through the U.S., including a trip to Dallas in mid-September of 1964. The film blends old black-and-white footage of The Beatles performing and being interviewed with new footage of Dallas-area Beatles experts. Check out the website for more, and follow the event on Facebook.
