If you love poetry and have somehow missed seeing Committing Poetry in Times of War , the documentary about Albuquerque teachers who were suspended and fired for supporting their students’ rights to speak out on the war in Iraq, you’ve got another chance. On Thursday, Nov. 6, beginning at 7 p.m., Bill Nevins and Allen Cooper–teachers and peace activists featured in the film–will host a free public screening. The screening will take place at the Albuquerque Peace And Justice Center (202 Harvard SE). For more info, log on to abqpeaceandjustice.org.
Reel World Backing Black
We all know Hollywood is gleefully availing itself of the tax incentives, pleasant weather and well-trained film crews New Mexico has to offer. Even more encouraging than another basic cable drama shooting here is the news that our state’s low-budget film scene continues to grow. Almost every month, word gets out that another enterprising filmmaker has completed work on an independently produced feature film project. This month is no exception. On Friday and Saturday, Nov. 7 and 8, J. Starr Welty will unveil her long-awaited film Black at Guild Cinema in Nob Hill. The dark fantasy follows Regan (Kylia Gibbs), an intelligent but reckless goth girl who fears her anger will erupt out of control. Living a life of drugs and teenage rebellion, she seeks escape in a vivid fantasy world. In Regan’s fertile imagination lives Phear (Lydia Salazar), a genetically engineered bat-winged girl who worries she will someday turn evil to fulfill the stereotype of her wings. With its female writer/director and unusual storyline, Black is one of the freshest films to emerge from Albuquerque’s growing scene. For more info, including a trailer, check out the website at myspace.com/blackthemovie. Guild screenings start at 10:30 p.m. both nights. Tickets are $7 at the door. Posters and buttons will be available for sale as well.
Reel World Contexting
Starting Sunday, Nov. 9, VSA North Fourth Art Center presents Out of the Ordinary (OOO) In Context, a mini festival of film, food and discussions. Starting at 2 p.m., NYC artist and disability advocate Lawrence Carter-Long will be there along with three short selections from his disTHIS series. These daring films (“Special People,” “I’m Spazticus,” “Abnormally Funny People”) inspire audiences to laugh at disability. In fact, they encourage it. OOO In Context is part of VSA’s Out of the Ordinary Festival 2008 and continues on Nov. 16 and 23 with more films and more discussions. For full fest info, log on to vsartsnm.org.
