Three new films are opening April 26 at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center.
The films are “The Beast,” directed by Bertrand Bonello; the documentary, “Vishniac,” directed by Laura Bialis; and “We Grown Now,” directed by Minhal Baig.
It’s the year 2044 in “The Beast,” and artificial intelligence controls all facets of a stoic society as humans routinely “erase” their feelings. Hoping to eliminate pain caused by their past-life romances, Gabrielle (Léa Seydoux) continually falls in love with different incarnations of Louis (George MacKay). Set first in Belle Époque-era Paris, Louis is a British man who woos her away from a cold husband, then in early 21st Century Los Angeles, he is a disturbed American bent on delivering violent “retribution.” Will the process allow Gabrielle to fully connect with Louis in the present, or are the two doomed to repeat their previous fates?
“The Beast” is not rated, and is showing through May 9.
Roman Vishniac was difficult and flamboyant, a shameless self-promoter, bender of the truth and master of reinvention. He was also one of the groundbreaking photographers of the 20th century — a brilliant artist whose body of work spans decades, continents, and the catastrophic fallout from two world wars. Though his pioneering microscopy transformed the nature of science photography, Vishniac is best known for his iconic images of Jewish life in Eastern Europe from 1935 through 1938. Few predicted that less than a decade later, these communities would be wiped out, and Vishniac’s photographs would provide the last visual records of an entire world.
Now for the first time, his story comes to life as a feature documentary. A retrospective and family saga, “Vishniac” is narrated by Vishniac’s daughter Mara. She grew up in his shadow and sought to break free of his grip, only to eventually come around and embrace his legacy.
“Vishniac” is not rated and is showing through May 2.
For Malik and Eric — two best friends who are more like brothers living in Cabrini-Green, Chicago — childhood brims with unbound possibilities that extend beyond their more than 15,000 person housing complex. They see their environment through the lens of a youthful, optimistic imagination. The year is 1992 — Michael Jordan is at the height of his success, and the two boys are blissfully carefree and bursting with potential.
Whether excelling at jumping competitions in the playground, dishing out hilariously juvenile jokes, or escaping the doldrums of school, the pair explore their world without caution or hesitation. At home, Malik’s mother, Dolores, strives to provide a loving foundation for her kids to flourish and where outside barriers don’t hinder their dreams. But when a tragic loss rocks their community, the boys’ friendship is tested despite their families’ efforts to prepare them for the turmoil.
“We Grown Now” is rated PG, and is showing through May 2.
Learn more about the films, including show times and ticket availability.
