From a recent Russian adaptation of Hamlet to a 1928 French silent classic about Joan of Arc, from a South Korean film influenced by Hitchcock’s Vertigo to a documentary about the lives of gay, lesbian and transgendered Muslims produced jointly by the U.S., U.K., France, Germany and Australia—those looking for a cinematic experience outside the usual American multiplex or even independent movie house will find something to their liking in this spring’s International Lens series at Vanderbilt. The films feature many different international viewpoints, as well as some that are distinctly American.
International Lens, which began last spring, seeks to transcend geographic, ethnic, religious, linguistic and political boundaries by enabling conversation and greater cross-cultural understanding through the medium of film. The series partners the Office of the Dean of Students with various academic departments, centers and programs. Vanderbilt faculty provide an introduction to each film and facilitate post-screening discussion afterward.
“We introduced the participatory element to our screenings to generate dialogue that can develop a deeper understanding of the film’s intent and cultural implications,” says JoEl Logiudice, director of the Office of Arts and Creative Engagement. “Sarratt Cinema has a strong history of providing thought-provoking foreign, independent and experimental films. Our goal is to continue that tradition by featuring award-winning films that in many cases have not been shown here in order to build a vital film community on campus and in Nashville.”
Screenings are shown in 35mm, unless otherwise noted. All the films in the series are free and open to the public, though “not rated” films may contain material suitable for mature audiences only.
The schedule, which is subject to change, can be found online at the series’ Web site.