If you are one of the many Columbians from somewhere outside of the East Coast, there is a good chance you, like myself, have found your flight cancelled, and stuck back in your cold, lonely dorm. There’s only one thing to do—head out to the movies. A jolly good two hours should distract you from remembering you don’t like to tomorrow, Sunday, or even later.
1. The Wrestler: Darren Arronofsky’s latest, and a major departure for the Requiem for a Dream director, has the comeback of a lifetime, not only in terms of story for Randy ‘The Ram’ Robinson, an 80s professional wrestler whose all washed up, but for star Mickey Rourke. Mr. Rourke has never looked so brutal but felt so honest, and Aronofsky has crafted a touching story around his performance. (Lincoln Center Plaza)
2. The Class: Laurent Cantet’s Palm D’Or winner makes returning to the classroom an exhilarating experience. This off the fly intense film follows one teacher’s attempts to control a class of 8th graders. But in Cantet’s the film, the class becomes a surprising portrasit of French society. (Lincoln Center Plaza)
3. It’s a Wonderful Life: Frank Capra’s classic Christmas tale with Jimmy Stewart returns to the screen once again. When George Bailey’s life falls apart, an angel shows him what life would be like without him. Often described as a little too sentimental and corny, It’s a Wonderful Life is actually a very dark and sarcastic film, that explores the meaning of life. (IFC Center)
