URGENT UPDATE: A wave of new films is hitting theaters in Los Angeles this week, with exciting releases and a special retrospective celebrating legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese. Moviegoers can expect a rich selection that promises to captivate audiences.
Among the standout films making their debut is Mary Bronstein’s “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You,” which has already garnered praise as one of the year’s most powerful narratives. The film features a riveting performance by Rose Byrne as a struggling mother grappling with her identity while caring for her ill daughter. Critics hail Byrne’s portrayal as a deep dive into the complexities of motherhood, with Glenn Whipp from the L.A. Times stating, “Bronstein demands you pay attention to her.”
Another highlight is the adaptation of “Kiss of the Spider Woman,” directed by Bill Condon and featuring Diego Luna and Jennifer Lopez. This film tells the poignant story of two men imprisoned in Argentina during the 1980s, with Lopez’s character serving as a fantastical escape. Luna’s performance has been called a revelation, sending “tingles through your heartstrings,” according to critic Amy Nicholson.
In addition to these films, audiences can also look forward to “Urchin,” marking the directorial debut of Harris Dickinson, and the documentary “Orwell: 2+2=5,” directed by Raoul Peck. Other notable releases include Derek Cianfrance’s true-crime comedy “Roofman,” Kathryn Bigelow’s nuclear-war thriller “A House of Dynamite,” and Luca Guadagnino’s campus drama “After the Hunt.”
This weekend, the American Cinematheque will host a four-title retrospective honoring Rebecca Miller, including a sneak peek at her documentary series “Mr. Scorsese,” which premieres on October 17, 2023. The series offers an intimate look at Scorsese’s life and career, featuring interviews with the director himself and insights from collaborators like Robert De Niro and Steven Spielberg. Miller will introduce screenings of her film “She Came to Me,” along with a Q&A for the first two episodes of the Scorsese project.
In a recent conversation, Miller expressed her honor in showcasing Scorsese’s work, stating, “You feel like you’re just in the middle of making everything, but then you realize, no, I’ve been making these films for 30 years.” She highlighted the spiritual undercurrents that run through Scorsese’s films, prompting questions about good and evil.
In addition, a unique double feature will screen at the New Beverly, pairing John Carpenter’s cult classic “They Live” with “Josie and the Pussycats.” Both films explore consumer culture and control, making for a thought-provoking cinematic experience.
For movie enthusiasts, “Eight Men Out” will also be shown in 35mm at Vidiots, revisiting the infamous “Black Sox” scandal, while the Academy Museum screens “The Sound of Music” in 70mm, providing a rare opportunity to see this classic in its original format.
As these films roll out across Los Angeles, audiences can expect a thrilling week filled with significant cinematic moments. Don’t miss out on the chance to catch these exciting releases and retrospectives that are set to enrich the film landscape.
