A pair of documentaries exploring North American history open at the Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center on Sept. 4.
"So Surreal: Behind the Masks" traces the journey of Indigenous masks from the far reaches of Turtle Island (North America) into the hands of European Surrealists, influencing the work and worldview of some of the most well-known modern artists and writers. The film also follows the dramatic quest to return a mask brutally stolen from the Kwakwa̱ka̱ ʼwakw people of northwest Canada more than a century ago.
Part caper, part road trip, part spiritual journey, "So Surreal" follows Cree filmmaker Neil Diamond ("Reel Injun," "Red Fever") as he travels coast-to-coast and across the Atlantic and back, gradually piecing together a global story of influence, reconnection and restitution.
The film, which is not rated, plays through Sept. 17.
Diamond and co-writer/co-director Joanne Robertson will join the audience for a Q&A following the 7:30 p.m. Sept. 4 screening. The event is presented by Friends of the Ross and the Norman A. Geske Cinema Showcase. Tickets for the screening and Q&A are at regular Ross prices and can be purchased here.
"Awake, My Soul: The Story of the Sacred Harp" is the first feature documentary to explore the history, music and traditions of Sacred Harp singing, the oldest distinctively American form of music. This haunting music has survived more than 200 years, tucked away in the rural deep South, and occurs mostly at community singing events, which typically include anywhere from a dozen to 200 singers.
The film, also not rated, runs through Sept. 10.
The Ross will be closed on home football Saturdays beginning Sept. 5.
For more information on films, including showtimes and ticket availability, visit the Ross’ website.
