This season’s films have been chosen from hundreds of new and recent releases on the basis of those types of films that WFS audiences have most applauded in the past. They represent films from across the world, nearly all with a heart-warming touch. The first six months of the programme has been chosen with the July to December programme to follow.
For easier comprehension, WFS, unlike many cinemas, shows sub-titles on all films – even those in English.
The films are shown at Abbey Fields Community Centre, Back Lane, Winchcombe GL54 5QH, on the last Friday of the month. Turn up at 7pm to enjoy tea, coffee or wine with friends for a 7.30pm start.
The Holdovers (US 2023, Dir Alexander Payne, 133 mins), January 31st
This American winter’s tale is set in a private boys school over the Christmas vacation. Those left include a lone, unlikable school master, a teenager whose parents have left him at the school and a cook with her own troubles. How will the trio manage over the holidays? Starring Paul Giamatti and Da’Vine Joy Randolph.
Pheeb (2014 Jordan, UAE, Qatar. Dir Naji Abu Nowar, 100 mins). February 28th
The film is considered a ‘Bedouin western’ set during WW1 in the Jordanian Wadi Rum desert. Theeb becomes entangled with his elder brother’s dangerous mission and has to learn how to survive in this hostile environment.
The Old Oak (2023, Belgium, France, UK. Dir Ken Loach, 113 mins). March 28th
Ken Loach’s final film holds all the hallmarks of his style. He tackles the arrival of Syrian Refugees to an old mining community with the traditional pub becoming the battleground between the groups.
Awards night. Conclave (2024) UK, US. Dir. Edward Berger, 120 mins). 25th April.
Conclave has been nominated and won a raft of international awards this year including the BAFTA for Best Film. The film takes us into the papal election process in a way which is suspenseful, gripping and humorous.
Perfect Days (2024, Japan, Germany). Dir Wim Winders, 124 mins). 30th May
Hirayama has created a routine in his life, working in a menial job during the day, enjoying music and reading literature in the evening. This pleasing life is interrupted by people and situations which alter his equilibrium and challenge him to broaden his experiences.
Anatomy of a Fall (2023 French). Dir Justine Triet,152 mins). June 20th (NB a week earlier than usual)
This crime drama starts with a death, but is it accidental or intentional? NB: As this film is 153 mins long there will be an earlier start at 7.00pm and has a short intermission.
One Life (2023 UK). Dir James Hawes, 110 mins. July 25th.
The true-life story of Nicholas Winter who as a young man, helps 669 children (most of them Jewish) out of German-occupied Czechoslovakia. A very moving film, aided by a great cast led by Anthony Hopkins as the older Winter reflecting on the event.
Chinatown (1974, US). Dir. Roman Polanski, 131 mins. August 29th.
Our ‘nostalgia’ film, a classic ‘film noir’ blending mystery, drama and love, and a chance to see Faye Dunaway and Jack Nicholson at their top of their game. The film has gained cult status as one of the greats.
My Favourite Cake (2024, Iran, France, Sweden, Germany). Dir. Maryam Moghaddam & Behtash Sanaeeha. 97 mins. September 26th.
This delightful film of a 70 year old Iranian woman looking for late love did not go down well at home, but the rest of the world loved it.
Central Station (1998, Brazil). Dir. Walter Salles. 113 mins. October 31st.
This much awarded film tells the story of a young boy’s search for his father, aided by a very disenchanted retired school teacher. The action starts in Central Station, Rio de Janeiro.
November Film Cancelled. See December film.
Saving Mr Banks (2013 US,UK,Canada). Dir. John Lee Handcock, 125 mins. December 19th.
The film, based on PL Travers’ unhappiness with the way Disney, and Walt Disney in person, chose to develop her story, Mary Poppins, into a movie. Emma Thomson and Tom Hanks lead in this often humorous account of the discussions between the two of them. Her backstory, woven through the film, explains much.
Winchcombe Film Society 