The Irwin Library Film Series returns for its third year with a new theme – Irwin Closet Picks! Honoring the popular Criterion Closet Picks video series, Butler Libraries faculty have picked their favorite Criterion Collection releases from the ‘Irwin Closet’ to showcase this year, and will introduce, contextualize, and appreciate them at this year’s screenings. Criterion publishes “important classic and contemporary films from around the world,” and this year’s series will span black & white, color, in English, foreign language, animated, live action, musical, comedy, fairy tale, and more. Popcorn and soda will be available, along with BCR credit!
Wednesday, December 10, at 7:30 PM: The Umbrellas of Cherbourg (1964) starring Catherine Deneuve, directed by Jacques Demy
After directing a pair of New Wave-inspired black and white films in the early 60s, Jacques Demy expanded his palette with the sumptuously colorful and deeply felt Les Parapluies de Cherbourg (The Umbrellas of Cherbourg). Launching the career of Catherine Deneuve, this musical romantic drama has no spoken dialogue, but is entirely sung, to music by Michel Legrand (uncle to Beach House's Victoria Legrand). Set in the titular northern port town during France's war with Algeria, the story concerns the challenges of two young lovers, but aside from that standard plot, it creates an immersive world of color and sound that has inspired generations of filmmakers. A landmark of cinema, The Umbrellas of Cherbourg is a heartbreaking feast for the eyes and ears.
