MANHATTAN SHORT 2020 winners announced...3 fathers & 3 daughters

 Again, we want to thank Martin's at Midtown for making it possible for us to get this year's MANHATTAN SHORT in front of the Strand audience. It was a fun place to see a movie, and maybe we can get together again there.

The Vicksburg audience was in perfect alignment with the worldwide audience in their choices for best films and actor.

The big prize goes to the Palestinian film about a father and daughter's 

experiences bringing home a fridge

In Macedonia

another father tries to take a gift to his daughter.

Another father (in Finland) has to decide whether to get his daughter a dog.

The best actor award goes to the father with the fridge...

Thanks to everyone who came to our presentations of the films at Martin's. 

By the time it was all over, I think we had almost figured out how to make it work.

Hope to see you back at the Strand someday soon.

AGGIE - A new film to watch at home and benefit the Strand

Our virtual films offer you great films to see at home and still support the future of the Strand Theatre.

Aggie is a feature-length documentary that explores the nexus of art, race, and justice through the story of art collector and philanthropist Agnes “Aggie” Gund’s life. Emmy-nominated director Catherine Gund focuses on her mother’s journey to give viewers an understanding of the power of art to transform consciousness and inspire social change. Aggie is internationally recognized for her robust and prescient support of artists–particularly women and people of color–and her unwavering commitment to social justice issues. After falling in love with art as a high-school student, Aggie discovers a new way of looking at the world. The film opens with Aggie selling Roy Lichtenstein’s “Masterpiece” For $165 million to start the Art for Justice Fund. The proceeds from one of the highest grossing artworks ever sold fuel a monumental effort to reform the American criminal justice system and end mass incarceration. The film captures Aggie as a true maverick who demonstrates the unique role and potential of collectors and benefactors to use art to fight justice. This is untapped terrain, and we see Aggie leading the way.

Check out the trailer

Click to watch this new film:

MANHATTAN SHORT 2020 to debut at Martin's at Midtown

For the seventh year in a row film lovers in Vicksburg will join over 100,000 film enthusiasts around the world during the month of October when the 23rd Annual MANHATTAN SHORT Film Festival debuts outdoors on the deck of Martin's at Midtown Saturday, October 10 and Sunday, October 11 starting at 7 PM. (Look for more showings in response to demand)

"It's one of our most popular programs every year and it was important to us to get the films in front of our audience somehow or another," said Daniel Boone film programmer for the Strand Theatre, the usual venue for the Shorts. "Martin's has worked with us over the years to make MANHATTAN SHORT a true event here in Vicksburg, so, it seemed only natural to partner with them on finding a way to present the films during these unusual times. In years past a single showing of MANHATTAN SHORT has sold out, but since seating at Martin's will be strictly limited to keep everyone safe, we will consider repeating the program if there is demand to do so."

The first shows at Martin's will be on Saturday, October 10 and Sunday, October 11 starting at 7 PM. Patrons will be asked to purchase a table for the evening. Each table will include heavy hors d'oeuvres donated by local restaurants Martin's at Midtown and Mainstreet Market, adult libations, as well as a view of the Shorts, and the opportunity to vote on their favorite film. All proceeds will go to MANHATTAN SHORT and to support the continuation of the Strand Theatre. 

View the trailer:

This year, the MANHATTAN SHORT Film Festival received 971 entries from 54 countries and selected nine finalists. The Final Nine MANHATTAN SHORT selections hail from nine countries with films from Australia, Finland, Iran, Russia, Israel, North Macedonia, State of Palestine and USA. The Final Nine screening simultaneously across the world during a one-month period, with the Best Film and Best Actor awards determined by ballots cast by the audiences in each participating venue.

The MANHATTAN SHORT Final Nine are:
Safe Space (Australia), The Stick (Finland), Exam (Iran), Hey, Gray (Russia), White Eye (Israel), Sticker (North Macedonia), Two Little Boys (USA), Maestro (France) The Present (Palestine).

This year's Final Nine selections use drama, comedy and animation to address an astonishing number of themes, ranging from identity to parenthood to the seemingly universal frustration caused by the Department of Motor Vehicles no matter the country. The directorial voices are both male and female from countries large and small, often inspired by personal and sometimes harrowing experience. This year's Final Nine screening also is a rare instance when gripping dramas from Iran, Israel, and the State of Palestine are featured in the same program.

Due to COVID 19 MANHATTAN SHORT is extending the screening dates through the whole month of October rather than its usual seven-to-ten day period. None of the screenings will be shown "virtually" so as to support local cinemas in a time of crisis. "The Films I remember best are those I saw in a cinema. Streaming the Manhattan Short Film Festival was never an option. While the numbers are sure to be down, you have to stay true to what you do. MANHATTAN SHORT is a cinematic experience." -- Founding Director Nicholas Mason. 

MANHATTAN SHORT at Martin's at Midtown Saturday, October 10 and Sunday, October 11 starting at 7 PM:

Masks will be required for entry and social distancing will be observed.

Tables for 4 may be reserved for $160

To reserve a table Text: "Shorts" to 601 618 4755. 

Pre-payment of the full table price will be required to secure the reservation.

Meeting the Beatles in India - a new film

 

New Film:

Meeting the Beatles
In India

starting Friday, September 18

A new film to watch at home while supporting the present and future of the Strand Theatre.

ABOUT THE FILM
In 1968, with the eyes of the world upon them, The Beatles traveled to Rishikesh, India, to study transcendental meditation with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. In one of the most anticipated Beatles documentaries, Filmmaker Paul Saltzman, retraces his journey of 50 years ago when he spent a life-changing time with John, Paul, George and Ringo. Fifty years later he reveals previously unknown details of this pivotal moment in the Beatles' career and the inner workings of the masterful White Album.

Starting with "Bungalow Bill" in Hawaii; connects with David Lynch about his own inner journey; as well as preeminent Beatles historian, Mark Lewisohn; Academy Award nominated film composer, Laurence Rosenthal.: and Pattie and Jenny Boyd. And much of this is due to Saltzman's own daughter, Devyani, reminding him that he had put away and forgotten these remarkably intimate photographs of that time in 1968.

Released: 2020 - Rating: NR - Duration: 142 minutes

Click to see this film: https://www.gathr.pro/39s894/2tcpl/


The Virtual Strand?
Watch a film/support the Strand

Back in March I introduced Parasite by professing my love for Vicksburg, the Strand, and the folks who come out to see our programming. A few things have changed since then...

But we still love you and miss you at the Strand.

And we hope you miss us: breathing in the smell of the fresh popcorn as you open the door; catching up with friends old and new; checking out this week's beer selection; finding the perfect seat (until some tall person sits in front of you)... and then watching a new or classic film with an audience - those were the days. And hopefully all those little things will return to our lives soon. Or eventually.

Until then some of our film distributors have come up with a plan to keep you thinking about the Strand and even supporting the Strand by partnering with us to offer unreleased films you can watch at home. Typically these films are available for a week or two or three, and once rented can be watched over a 72 hour period. The easiest way to watch them is on a computer, or tablet, or phone, but they can usually be cast to your TV using Airplay or ChromeCast or something similar. Also a cable which connects your device to your TV by HDMI can be used.

Okay, it's not the same, but these are brand new films of the caliber we would be presenting on our screen, and if you choose to watch them, the Strand gets to split the ticket price.

Click to see Meeting the Beatles in India: https://www.gathr.pro/39s894/2tcpl/

Ella Fitzgerald, Just One of Those Things, virtual movie (plus free Q&A)

Available starting June 26:
Ella Fitzgerald: Just One of Those Things

From our virtual cinema collection: Ella: Just One of Those Things about the great vocalist Ella Fitzgerald.

Ella Fitzgerald was a 15 year-old street kid when she won a talent contest in 1934 at the Apollo Theatre in Harlem. Within months she was a star. “Ella: Just One of Those Things” follows her extraordinary journey over six decades as her sublime voice transforms the tragedies of her own life and the troubles of her times into joy.

The film uses never-before-seen images and unheard interviews to bring Ella Fitzgerald to life and to tell the story of her music.-a black woman who makes her career in the face of horrifying racism.

Here is an Ella the world never knew –tough, thoughtful, funny, a dazzling musical innovator.The film also uncovers Ella’s commitment to the battle for Civil Rights; and it explores the conflicts that always haunted this intensely private woman: the struggle to reconcile her hunger for adoring audiences with her longing for a domestic life with her husband and son. At a time when she was the biggest singing star in the world, her pianist and friend Oscar Peterson said Ella was “the loneliest woman in the world”. But as Jamie Cullum says “her music is one of the reasons it’s worth being on this planet"

Featuring interviews with: Tony Bennett, Jamie Cullum, Laura Mvula, Johnny Mathis, Smokey Robinson, Cleo Laine, Andre Previn, Norma Miller, Patti Austin, Izsak Perlman, Margo Jefferson, Will Friedwald and a rare interview with Ella’s son, Ray Brown Jr.

Watch the film at home, benefit the Strand

Here's the trailer:

Starting June 26 click for live link to see the film:

Plus a bonus Q&A about the film:

Sunday, June 28, at 7pm ET/4pm PT ). 

Producer Reggie Nadelon and author/music critic Will Friedwald will now be joined by author Margo Jefferson and singer Camille Thurman.

Margo Jefferson is distinguished culture critic and author of the acclaimed book Negroland

Camille Thurman, a singer and saxophone player, is a member of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra.

Click to access this free Q&A 

Picture a Scientist - new film about women in science from the virtual Strand (plus a Q&A)

Watch at home: support the Strand

Picture a Scientist

watch starting June 12

A new film to watch at home while supporting the present and future of the Strand Theatre. Should strike a chord here in Vicksburg where we have and have had so many women scientists. The film is an eye opening examination of the difficult journeys made by so many and the hard won progress that has been made.

PICTURE A SCIENTIST is a feature-length documentary film chronicling the groundswell of researchers who are writing a new chapter for women scientists. A biologist, a chemist and a geologist lead viewers on a journey deep into their own experiences in the sciences, overcoming brutal harassment, institutional discrimination, and years of subtle slights to revolutionize the culture of science. From cramped laboratories to spectacular field stations, we also encounter scientific luminaries who provide new perspectives on how to make science itself more diverse, equitable, and open to all.

Check out the trailer:

Click here starting June 12 for a link to the film...

And... 

Virtual Q&A:

A Q&A will take place 8-9 pm eastern time on June 17, with our three star scientists, two directors, and moderator Molly Webster of Radiolab. Viewers will be able to use the YouTube live chat feed to submit questions once the event begins.

Click for YouTube link for the Q&A on June 17.

Plimpton! New film about the man who did it all.

New Film:

Plimpton!

starting Friday, June 5

Laemmle / Zeller Films Presents

A New York Times Critic's Pick

Plimpton! Starring George Plimpton as Himself

A Film by Tom Bean and Luke Poling

One of the great adventurers of the 20th Century, George Plimpton embarked on a lifelong journey akin to fictional characters such as Forrest Gump and Indiana Jones.  He hung out with U.S. Presidents, played quarterback for the Detroit Lions, forced Willie Mays to pop out in Yankee Stadium, photographed Playboy models, was named the "Most Eligible Bachelor in Manhattan" by Esquire Magazine, played goalie for the Boston Bruins, struck the triangle for the New York Philharmonic and acted alongside John Wayne, Warren Beatty and Matt Damon. Some of these things he did well. Some he didn't.  But they were always amusing and inspiring.  

 Watch the trailer:

 

Click this link starting June 5 for a link to the film and all the other films offered through the virtual Strand:   

Do you like Mexican food? We have a new film for you.

Diana Kennedy: Nothing Fancy

starting Friday, May 22

Do you like Mexican food?

The Strand has a movie for you to watch at home.,, and support the Strand at the same time.

Diana Kennedy: Nothing Fancy is an intimate, candid perspective into the curious world of cookbook author and British ex-pat Diana Kennedy -widely regarded as the world's expert on Mexican cuisine.

At five feet tall and 97 years old, Diana is larger than life: a foul-mouthed fireball far more feisty and energetic than her age and petite frame let on. Author of nine Mexican cookbooks, she has spent over 60 years researching and documenting the regional cuisines of Mexico. Kennedy has lived 'off-the-grid' on an eight-acre ranch outside Zitácuaro, Michoacán since the 1970's: composting, growing her own crops, and using solar power to run her home. Aware of her own mortality, she is working tirelessly to solidify the legacy of her life's efforts, with the hope of turning her home into a foundation for culinary education in Mexico.A two-time James Beard Award winner, Diana was decorated with an Order of the Aztec Eagle from the Mexican government and became a Member of the Order of the British Empire from the UK in 2002. Despite her notable achievements, Diana is difficult to categorize. Often referred to as the "Julia Child of Mexico," but Diana prefers a different title: "The Mick Jagger of Mexican Cuisine.

Diana Kennedy:Nothing Fancy explores Diana's vibrant, unconventional life, blending vérité with archival footage, photographs and interviews. Viewers accompany her in intimate settings at home -cooking, gardening, and traveling to accept awards and speak to audiences. The film features interviews with notable chefs and friends including Alice Waters, José Andrés, Rick Bayless, and Gabriela Cámara, along with footage from Diana's TLC cooking show, "The Art of Mexican Cooking." Whether she is instructing chefs at her infamous "Boot Camp" cooking school, blazing her truck over the cobblestone roads of Zitácuaro or sunbathing with a scotch on her balcony, Diana is captivatingly bold, spirited, and unapologetically herself.

And to enhance your enjoyment of the film: Foodies take note. To celebrate the May 22 virtual cinema release of DIANA KENNEDY: NOTHING FANCY about the James Beard-winning master of Mexican cuisine, a virtual Q&A will take place with director Elizabeth Carroll, chef Alice Waters (Chez Panisse), chef Gabriela Cámara (Contramara & Cala), and The New York Times food writer David Tanis.

Saturday, May 23 @ 8pm ET/5pm PT 

You can register for Q&A via this Zoom link. 

Watch the trailer:

Click this link starting May 22 for a link to the film and all the other films offered through the virtual Strand:   

The Virtual Strand?

Watch a film/support the Strand

Back in March I introduced Parasite by professing my love for Vicksburg, the Strand, and the folks who come out to see our programming. A few things have changed since then...

But we still love you and miss you at the Strand.

And we hope you miss us: breathing in the smell of the fresh popcorn as you open the door; catching up with friends old and new; checking out this week's beer selection; finding the perfect seat (until some tall person sits in front of you)... and then watching a new or classic film with an audience - those were the days. And hopefully all those little things will return to our lives soon. Or eventually.

Until then some of our film distributors have come up with a plan to keep you thinking about the Strand and even supporting the Strand by partnering with us to offer unreleased films you can watch at home. Typically these films are available for a week or two or three, and once rented can be watched over a 72 hour period. The easiest way to watch them is on a computer, or tablet, or phone, but they can usually be cast to your TV using Airplay or ChromeCast or something similar. Also a cable which connects your device to your TV by HDMI can be used.

Okay, it's not the same, but these are brand new films of the caliber we would be presenting on our screen, and if you choose to watch them, the Strand gets to split the ticket price.

 Click here to get more info and to purchase screenings of all our
Virtual Strand Films

New choices: New Orleans Music and French Short Films from the Virtual Strand this weekend...

2 new films for the Virtual Strand 

New Orleans Music  

& French Short Films

starting Friday, May 15

first we have

Up from the Streets:  

New Orleans, City of Music

If you missed this year's Jazzfest or would just like to know more about New Orleans music, here's another great film to enjoy at home wherever that may be while supporting the Strand in Vicksburg.

It even features Vicksburg's own Bill Ferris giving insights about the city's greats.

Four-time Grammy winner Terence Blanchard serves as executive producer, music director and host for the film.The film features personal reflections from New Orleans' most impactful musicians including, but not limited to, Terence Blanchard, Harry Connick, Jr, Wynton Marsalis, Mannie Fresh, Dr. Michael White, and commentary by national and international musicians along with archival and newly filmed performances by iconic artists such as Louis Armstrong, Mahalia Jackson, Professor Longhair, Fats Domino, Allen Toussaint and The Neville Brothers.

Special LIVE Q&A via ZOOM with Terence Blanchard and director Michael Murphy at 7pm ET on Saturday, May 16.

For every ticket sold, $2 will be donated to the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation COVID-19 relief fund for musicians.

Watch the trailer: 

Coming to the virtual Strand on May 15. 

Click here for a link to see the film:  

and for something completely different:

New French Shorts  

An annual presentation of the best of recent short films from France selected by UniFrance and the Cultural Services of the French Embassy for their Young French Cinema program

A single feature-length program of seven delightful, funny,  charming, provocative festival favorite Gallic shorts, perfect to watch at home and benefit the Strand...

BAHMED'S SONG (Le chant d'Ahmed) 30 min 

Director: Foued Mansour 

Winner of Bridging the Borders Award at the Palm Springs International ShortFest 2019

SHEEP, WOLF, AND A CUP OF TEA (Moutons, loup et tasse de thé) 12min 

Director: Marion Lacourt 

Official selection: 2019 Locarno Film Festival

TUESDAY FROM 8 TO 6 (Mardi de 8 à 18) 26 min 

Director: Cecilia de Arce 

Official selection: 2019 Cannes Critics Week

THE DISTANCE BETWEEN US AND THE SKY (La distance entre nous et le ciel) 9 min 

Director: Vasilis Kekatos 

Winner of Short Film Palme d'Or and Queer Palme at Cannes 2019

THE TEARS THING, (Le coup des larmes) 25 min 

Director: Clémence Poésy 

Official selection: 2019 Venice Film Festival

MAGNETIC HARVEST, (La traction de pôles) 24 min 

Director: Marine Levéel

TOTAL : 126 min

Plus special bonus short:

THE GLORIOUS ACCEPTANCE SPEECH OF NICOLAS CHAUVIN (Le discours d'acceptation glorieux de Nicolas Chauvin) 26 min 

Director: Benjamin Crotty 

Official selection: 2018 New York Film Festival | Winner of Mantarraya Award

Watch the trailer:  

Click this link starting May 15 for a link to the films:  

The Virtual Strand?

Watch a film/support the Strand

Back in March I introduced Parasite by professing my love for Vicksburg, the Strand, and the folks who come out to see our programming. A few things have changed since then...

But we still love you and miss you at the Strand.

And we hope you miss us: breathing in the smell of the fresh popcorn as you open the door; catching up with friends old and new; checking out this week's beer selection; finding the perfect seat (until some tall person sits in front of you)... and then watching a new or classic film with an audience - those were the days. And hopefully all those little things will return to our lives soon. Or eventually.

Until then some of our film distributors have come up with a plan to keep you thinking about the Strand and even supporting the Strand by partnering with us to offer unreleased films you can watch at home. Typically these films are available for a week or two or three, and once rented can be watched over a 72 hour period. The easiest way to watch them is on a computer, or tablet, or phone, but they can usually be cast to your TV using Airplay or ChromeCast or something similar. Also a cable which connects your device to your TV by HDMI can be used.

Okay, it's not the same, but these are brand new films of the caliber we would be presenting on our screen, and if you choose to watch them, the Strand gets to split the ticket price.

 Click here to get more info and to purchase screenings of all our
Virtual Strand Films
Thanks for all your support...

Up From The Streets -Terence Blanchard, Legacy of New Orleans Clip

Check out this cool clip from Up From the Streets coming to Strand Virtual Cinema starting May 15.



https://watch.eventive.org/upfromthestreets/play/5eac5b71d73e35003d108a69

Short films: Kid Flicks from the virtual Strand

Kid Flicks great shorts from  New York International Children's  Film Festival

2 programs from New York International Children's Film Festival - Kid Flicks 2019 Grab some popcorn and get ready for a fun, artful film experience for kids and adults alike. With these hour-long screenings of the best of the New York International Children's Film Festival's short films, you can bring some artful, inspired storytelling and hilarity to your home screen. Two short film programs are available, Kid Flicks One recommended for ages 3+, and Kid Flicks Two for ages 8+. Have a great film experience with your kids, with plenty of ideas and themes to talk about long after the screening is done (and you'll have 48 hours to rewatch as much as you'd like!). These films are not just for kids. Watch the trailer: NYICFF Kid Flicks One - Catch the best short films from around the world! (Ages 3+) 56 mins, In English, or with no dialogue The New York International Children's Film Festival brings you a great opportunity to share the art of film with kids, with this program filled with fun and clever stories of growth and transformation. If you've ever been the youngest of the group, you'll sympathize with the little tadpole who always falls a tad behind in the charming KUAP. Catching up on penmanship is the name of the game if you want to graduate from pencils in the winning doc Pen Licence. Then little ones are in charge and grown-ups get to play when the hilarious Flipped reworks the script. With films from 10 countries, these shorts are sure to delight and inspire. NYICFF Kid Flicks Two - Catch the best short films from around the world! (Ages 8+) 72 mins, In English or with English subtitles These short films from the New York International Children's Film Festival show that playfulness, big ideas, and feelings small and large are all just fine! With these great films for slightly older kids, you'll have plenty of inspiration to continue the conversation with your kids long after the screening is done. Take a wild ride and harness the (cat) power of the cosmos with the quirky film Catmos. If you're curious about more earthly matters, take a page out of a Field Guide to Being a 12-Year-Old Girl. And whether their tastes lean umami or sweet, the duo in Mogu & Perol just might convince you there is simply nothing more delish than a warm friendship. For great films for kids ready to grow in experiences and ideas, NYICFF's Kid Flicks Two is just the ticket! Here's more info Coming to the virtual Strand starting May 8. Click this link: You watch our virtual film offerings in your home on your own schedule. The Strand splits the "ticket" price with the distributor. To see good films and support the future of the Strand at the same time click this link starting Friday, May 8 Starting May 8, click for a live link to stream Kid Flicks The Virtual Strand? Watch a film/support the Strand Just a few weeks ago I introduced Parasite by professing my love for Vicksburg, the Strand, and the folks who come out to see our programming. A few things have changed since then... But we still love you and miss you at the Strand. And we hope you miss us: breathing in the smell of the fresh popcorn as you open the door; catching up with friends old and new; checking out this week's beer selection; finding the perfect seat (until some tall person sits in front of you)... and then watching a new or classic film with an audience - those were the days. And hopefully all those little things will return to our lives soon. Or eventually. Until then some of our film distributors have come up with a plan to keep you thinking about the Strand and even supporting the Strand by partnering with us to offer unreleased films you can stream at home. Typically these films are available for a week or two or three, and once rented can be watched over a 72 hour period. The easiest way to watch them is on a computer, or tablet, or phone, but they can usually be cast to your TV using Airplay or ChromeCast or something similar. Also a cable which connects your device to your TV by HDMI can be used. Okay, it's not the same, but these are brand new films of the caliber we would be presenting on our screen, and if you choose to watch them, the Strand gets to split the ticket price.  Click here to get more info and to purchase a screening of Kid Flicks and see links for our other Virtual Strand films. Thanks for all your support...

Crescendo - our latest from the virtual Strand to watch at home

Crescendo, Our latest offering to watch at home from the "virtual Strand"* is about conflict and the power of music.

When a world famous conductor tries to create an Israeli-Palestinian orchestra, it takes all his skill and resources to overcome the discord and get them to play in harmony, rising to a tense and emotional finale.

When world-famous conductor Eduard Sporck accepts the job to create an Israeli-Palestinian youth orchestra, he is quickly drawn into a tempest of sheer unsolvable problems. Having grown up in a state of war, suppression or constant risk of terrorist attacks, the young musicians from both sides are far from able to form a team. Lined up behind the two best violinists - the emancipated Palestinian Layla and the handsome Israeli Ron - they form two parties who deeply mistrust each other, on and off-stage alike. Will Sporck succeed and make the young people forget their hatred, at least for the three weeks until the concert? With the first glimmer of hope, however, the political opponents of the orchestra show them how strong they are...

Loosely inspired by Daniel Barenboim's West-Eastern Divan Orchestra, Academy-Award nominated director Dror Zahavi ("Alexander Penn", "Everything for my Father") directs this gripping drama as a constantly growing 'crescendo', rising the tension and conflicts until the last frame. Lead actor Peter Simonischek ("Toni Erdmann") stars next to a highly convincing selection of up-and-coming actors like Daniel Donskoy ("Victoria") and Sabrina Amali ("4 Blocks"). A remarkable theatrical movie and contribution to the world-wide efforts towards understanding, humanity and peace.

see the trailer:

You watch our virtual film offerings from your home on your own schedule. The Strand splits the "ticket" price with the distributor. To see a good film and support the future of the Strand at the same time click this link starting Friday, May 1
Starting May 1, click for a live link to the film:

The Virtual Strand?

Watch a film/support the Strand

Just a few weeks ago I introduced Parasite by professing my love for Vicksburg, the Strand, and the folks who come out to see our programming. A few things have changed since then...

But we still love you and miss you at the Strand.

And we hope you miss us: breathing in the smell of the fresh popcorn as you open the door; catching up with friends old and new; checking out this week's beer selection; finding the perfect seat (until some tall person sits in front of you)... and then watching a new or classic film with an audience - those were the days. And hopefully all those little things will return to our lives soon. Or eventually.

Until then some of our film distributors have come up with a plan to keep you thinking about the Strand and even supporting the Strand by partnering with us to offer unreleased films you can watch at home. Typically these films are available for a week or two or three, and once purchased can be watched over a 72 hour period. The easiest way to watch them is on a computer, or tablet, or phone, but they can usually be cast to your TV using Airplay or ChromeCast or something similar. Also a cable which connects your device to your TV by HDMI can be used.

Okay, it's not the same, but these are brand new films of the caliber we would be presenting on our screen, and if you choose to watch them, the Strand gets to split the ticket price.

Click here to get more info and to purchase a screening of Crescendo
and see links for our other Virtual Strand films.
Thanks for all your support...

Booksellers and The Etruscan Smile new to stream from the virtual Strand

Starting Friday, April 17 we're adding two new titles to our selection of films you can watch at home to benefit the Strand.

First: STRAND VICKSBURG presents

THE ETRUSCAN SMILE
Based on the bestselling novel by José Luis Sampedro, THE ETRUSCAN SMILE stars Brian Cox (HBO’s Succession) as Rory MacNeil, a rugged Scotsman who reluctantly leaves his beloved Hebridean island and travels to San Francisco to seek medical treatment. Moving in with his estranged son, Rory’s life will be transformed, when he least expects it, through the redemptive power of love.

“The film has energy and spirit, thanks to Cox’s bright, charming performance.”
–Rex Reed, Observer

“Cox is a wonder to watch, and seeing him in this gentle, vulnerable role is a treat.”
–Katie Walsh, Los Angeles Times

STARRING: BRIAN COX, ROSANNA ARQUETTE, JJ FEILD, THORA BIRCH
PRODUCED BY ACADEMY AWARD-WINNER ARTHUR COHN
DIRECTED BY MIHAL BREZIS & ODED BINNUN
A LIGHTYEAR ENTERTAINMENT RELEASE

Starting April 17, click for a live link to watch the film:

And:

THE BOOKSELLERS

Another film for you to watch at home. The Strand receives about half of the proceeds.

D.W. Young’s elegant and absorbing documentary is a lively tour of New York’s book world, populated by an assortment of obsessives, intellects, eccentrics and dreamers, past and present: from the Park Avenue Armory’s annual Antiquarian Book Fair, where original editions can fetch hundreds of thousands of dollars; to the Strand and Argosy bookstores, still standing against all odds; to the beautifully crammed apartments of collectors and buyers. The film, executive produced by Parker Posey, features a range of commentators, including Fran Lebowitz, Susan Orlean, Gay Talese, and a community of dedicated book dealers and collectors who strongly believe in the wonder of the object and what it holds within.

Starting April 17, click for a live link to watch the film:

Virtual Strand Film Links

In response to these remarkable times with theaters closed our distributors are offering us films to let you watch in the safety of your own home to benefit the Strand. These are films we would have considered bringing to our funky little theater, but it's pretty quiet over there right now. We miss you and hope you will find something of interest in this selection which so far includes shorts, Kid's films, documentaries, thrillers, dramas, foreign language films, cat videos... it's just like the Strand, but without the free popcorn.

As each film becomes available, we will add a live link so you can find more information and links to purchase film rentals.

Balloon: Active now
CatVideoFest: Active Now
The Booksellers: Active Now
Crescendo: Active Now  (Read more about Crescendo) 
New French Shorts 2020: Active Now

Diana Kennedy Nothing Fancy: Active Now
Plimpton!
Ella Fitzgerald: Just One of Those Things

Cat Videos! The Creature Comforts Edition in the "virtual Strand"

The World Is Stuck Inside Staring Out. 

We're Here to Cheer You Up. 

The Virtual Strand* and O-scope Presents...

BEST OF CATVIDEOFEST: 

CREATURE COMFORTS EDITION!

You asked for it, so we delivered! For the first time ever, CatVideoFest is available to screen virtually outside of theaters (as in right in your home)! Long time CatVideoFest curator extraordinaire, Will Braden, has crafted a 40-min "treat" of a reel that includes the very best videos from CVF's illustrious history. Oscilloscope is rolling it out to virtual cinemas all across the country (including the virtual Strand) beginning next Friday, April 10! 

The Fine Print: Since the "Best of CatVideoFest" isn't feature-length, it is not being offered at a standard ticket price. Instead, it's a "Pay What You Want" model, which allows you to rent the film to stream right in your home for as a little as $.99 or as much as you want. We understand many will pay the bare minimum, however we want to remind you that this is a special event to support the Strand in a time of great need.


Click to purchase CatVideoFest

*All films at the "virtual Strand" are streamed at home, but a portion of your rental fee goes to support the future of the Strand. Thank you for your support.

Balloon: a new film from the (Virtual Strand)

 We have a new film coming from the "Virtual Strand" starting this Friday, April 10. These films are not available to see on other streaming platforms, and half of your rental cost goes to support our efforts and future at the Strand.

Click this link to watch Balloon. 

Balloon (Ballon)

Thriller, Historical – Germany – 2019 – 125′

In German with English Subtitles

Synopsis

A thriller-like true story of one of the most spectacular escapes of the 20th Century.

With a theatrical release to coincide with the 30th anniversary of Germany’s reunification, BALLOON is based on the true events of one of the most daring escapes of the Cold War in which two families living in Communist East Germany sailed over the heavily fortified border in a homemade hot-air balloon.

In the summer of 1979, the Strelzyk and Wetzel families—who had been working on their audacious plan for more than two years—try to flee East Germany in a self-made hot-air balloon. But after the balloon crash-lands just before the West German border, the Stasi find traces of the attempted escape and immediately launch an investigation. In a nerve-wracking race against the clock, the two families attempt to build a new escape balloon as the Stasi get closer and closer each day…

Support your local theater with Virtual Cinema

After a very successful award-winning festival run, BALLOON opened on March 13th in Los Angeles at the Laemmle, a few days before the theaters were closed.   Distrib Films is now offering the possibility to watch the film while supporting your favorite local movie theater. Please share this information with your friends and family around the country, as tickets can be purchased by all in the participating theaters.

The Strand Goes virtual with The Whistlers this weekend (Held over another week!)

Magnolia Pictures and the (virtual) Strand present

The Whistlers

 

 "A funhouse of cinematic mirrors. 'The Whistlers' makes reading subtitles not just vital, but fun." - Justin Chang, Los Angeles Times

"If the Coen Brothers were Romanian, they might have made 'THE WHISTLERS'." - A.O. Scott, The New York Times

''A daffy and dazzling crime film. Taut and constantly surprising, the film breathes new life into staid genre conventions." - Simon Abrams, RogerEbert.com

In THE WHISTLERS, not everything is as it seems for Cristi, a police inspector in Bucharest who plays both sides of the law. Embarking with the beautiful Gilda on a high-stakes heist, both will have to navigate the twists and turns of corruption, treachery and deception. A trip to the Canary Islands to learn a secret whistling language might just be what they need to pull it off.

Watch the Trailer 

Purchase your screening of The Whistlers 

The Virtual Strand?

Watch a film/support the Strand

Just a couple weeks ago I introduced Parasite by professing my love for Vicksburg, the Strand, and the folks who come out to see our programming. A few things have changed since then...

But we still love you and miss you at the Strand.

And we hope you miss us: breathing in the smell of the fresh popcorn as you open the door; catching up with friends old and new; checking out this week's beer selection; finding the perfect seat (until some tall person sits in front of you)... and then watching a new or classic film with an audience, and hanging around to discuss the film - those were the days. And hopefully all those little things will return to our lives soon. Or eventually.

Until then some of our film distributors have come up with a plan to keep you thinking about the Strand and even supporting the Strand by partnering with us to offer unreleased films you can stream at home.

Okay, it's not the same, but these are brand new films of the caliber we would be presenting on our screen, and if you choose to watch them, the Strand receives half the ticket price. We will be working with a number of the distributors who supply our films. Their platforms and procedures may vary somewhat. It's an adventure.

Our first offering is from Romania and is called The Whistlers. 

Click to purchase your screening of the Whistlers
 

Thanks. We miss you.

Best Picture Winner: Parasite at the Strand Sat., March 14 at 7

Parasite

Strand Theatre

Saturday, March 14 at 7 PM

Just act like you own the place...

The little foreign language film that could: Parasite just would not stop winning Oscars earlier this month:

Best International Feature
Best Director
Best Original Screenplay
Best Picture (first time ever that a film not in English won Best Picture)

So, we are bringing it to the Strand so you can see what the fuss is about.

Bong Joon Ho brings his singular mastery home to Korea in this pitch-black modern fairytale.

Meet the Park Family: the picture of aspirational wealth. And the Kim Family, rich in street smarts but not much else. Be it chance or fate, these two houses are brought together and the Kims sense a golden opportunity. Masterminded by college-aged Ki-woo, the Kim children expediently install themselves as tutor and art therapist, to the Parks. Soon, a symbiotic relationship forms between the two families. The Kims provide “indispensable” luxury services while the Parks obliviously bankroll their entire household. When a parasitic interloper threatens the Kims’ newfound comfort, a savage, underhanded battle for dominance breaks out, threatening to destroy the fragile ecosystem between the Kims and the Parks. By turns darkly hilarious and heart-wrenching, PARASITE showcases a modern master at the top of his game.

See the trailer:

Advance tickets are available for $6 at the Highway 61 Coffeehouse ($8 at the door)