The Library’s look at the first features of various now legendary directors continues with these films being screened this weekend.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 17 @ 7:30 p.m.
Stand and Deliver (Warner Bros, 1988) – Directed by Ramón Menéndez.
A math teacher helps change the lives of a group of East L.A. students. They learn how to excel in the classroom–and outside of it. Edward James Olmos was nominated for the Best Actor Oscar for his portrayal of the teacher. Color, 102 minutes. Menéndez also directed Money for Nothing and wrote Tortilla Soup. Added to the National Film Registry in 2011.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 18 @ 7:30 p.m.
Blood Simple (Circle, 1984) – Directed by the Coen Brothers
A casual tryst between a bartender and his boss’s wife leads to much trouble. Much, much trouble in this with this razor-sharp, hard-boiled neo-noir set somewhere in Texas, where a sleazy bar owner releases a torrent of violence with just one murderous thought. Starring, in her film debut, the future three-time Best Actress Oscar winner Frances McDormand. Joel and Ethan Coen went on to direct Raising Arizona, O, Brother, Where Art Thou?, and Best Picture winner: No Country for Old Men. Rated R. Color, 96 minutes.
For more about the National Film Registry, see this link.
For more information on LC screenings, see this link.