Two directorial-debuts — one focused on a child’s experience of time passing, the other a coming-of-age story set against stunning Western landscapes — open July 19 at Nebraska’s Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center.
Continuing to show is the Family Film Fest, which offers animated movies at 11 a.m. every Saturday in July. Tickets to the films are $5. Remaining films in the series are: July 20, “Wallace and Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit” (2005); and July 27, “The Iron Giant” (1999). Learn more about the Ross’s Family Film Fest.
Written and directed by Annie Baker, a Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright, “Janet Planet” explores the complications in a relationship between mother and daughter. The story centers on Lacy, an 11-year-old who is home for summer and spending time with her mother, Janet.
Lacy watches as three visitors stop at the home, all becoming captivated by Janet’s spellbinding nature. As the summer rolls on, Lacy begins to fall out of love with her mother.
“Janet Planet,” which is rated PG-13 for brief, strong language, thematic elements and some drug use, shows at the Ross through Aug. 1.
Also opening July 19 is “National Anthem,” the directorial debut for Luke Gilford.
“National Anthem” follows Dylan (played by Charlie Plummer), a soft-spoken 21-year-old construction worker who is the de facto father figure to his little brother and works odd jobs to help his family get by. When Dylan begins working at a ranch, he finds a vibrant community of rodeo performers and is especially drawn to Sky (Eve Lindley).
A coming-of-age story, “National Anthem” is set against stunning Western landscapes that reflect the importance of a first love, found family and self-discovery.
The film, which is rated R for sexual content, graphic nudity, language and some drug use, shows at the Ross through Aug. 1.
Learn more about the films, including show times and ticket availability.
