Two films, “Zappa” and “Monsoon,” are opening Nov. 27 at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center.
“Zappa” is the first all-access documentary on the life and times of Frank Zappa. With unfettered access to the Zappa family trust and all archival footage, the film explores the private life behind the mammoth musical career that never shied away from the political turbulence of its time. Alex Winter’s assembly features appearances by Frank’s widow Gail Zappa and several of Frank’s musical collaborators including Mike Keneally, Ian Underwood, Steve Vai, Pamela Des Barres, Bunk Gardner, David Harrington, Scott Thunes, Ruth Underwood, Ray White, and others.
Roger Moore, of Movie Nation, lauded “Zappa” as “perhaps the most thorough Zappa screen biography to come along, and that’s acknowledging how hopeless the job of making the complete Zappa bio-doc is.”
“Zappa” is showing at the Ross through Dec. 10.
“Monsoon” sees writer-director Hong Khaou offering a thoughtful look at the emigrant experience, brought beautifully to life by Henry Golding’s stellar performance. Kit (Golding) returns to Ho Chi Minh City for the first time since he was 6 years old when his family fled the country in the aftermath of the Vietnam-American war. There he meets Lee, his estranged second cousin, and Linh, a young Vietnamese student, and arranges an online date that turns into something more with Lewis (Parker Sawyers), an American clothing designer. Struggling to make sense of himself in a city he’s no longer familiar with, he embarks on a personal journey across the country that opens up the possibility for friendship, love and happiness.
“Monsoon” is showing through Dec. 10. This program is being presented with the support of the Nebraska Arts Council and the Nebraska Cultural Endowment.
Showtimes are available on the Ross website, or by calling the film information line at 402-472-5353.
