By 1808Delaware
This August, the Strand Theatre and Cultural Arts Association invites you to embark on a unique cinematic adventure with their film series titled “From Banned Book to Movie Screen.” Every Tuesday night, audiences can delve into the world of literature that faced censorship, only to emerge as iconic films. Here’s what you can look forward to:
A Glimpse into the Lineup
August 6: To Kill a Mockingbird
The series kicks off on August 6 with the screening of To Kill a Mockingbird. Doors open at 6:30 PM, and the movie begins at 7:00 PM. This adaptation of Harper Lee’s timeless novel, starring Gregory Peck, explores themes of racial injustice and moral growth. The film remains a powerful commentary on the American legal system and societal norms.
August 13: Lolita
On August 13, the spotlight shifts to Stanley Kubrick’s Lolita, an adaptation of Vladimir Nabokov’s controversial novel. The film delves into complex themes of obsession and manipulation. The doors open at 6:30 PM, with the screening starting at 7:00 PM. Kubrick’s interpretation adds a unique visual and narrative layer to Nabokov’s provocative work.
August 20: A Clockwork Orange
The August 20 screening features another Kubrick masterpiece, A Clockwork Orange. Based on Anthony Burgess’s dystopian novel, this film examines extremes of behavior and state control. Join us at 6:30 PM for doors open, with the film commencing at 7:00 PM. The film’s depiction of societal decay and the psychological conditioning of its protagonist remains relevant and thought-provoking.
August 27: One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest
The series concludes on August 27 with One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, featuring Jack Nicholson in an unforgettable role. Adapted from Ken Kesey’s novel, this film highlights the struggles within a mental institution and questions the nature of sanity and authority. Doors open at 6:30 PM, with the film starting at 7:00 PM. This screening promises to be a fitting end to a month of powerful storytelling.
Special Offers and Displays
Throughout August, show your ticket stub from any of the series’ screenings at Beanbag Books and receive a 15% discount on any banned book. This is a fantastic opportunity to delve deeper into the literature behind the films. Additionally, the Strand will feature a Tuesday Night Banned Book display on August 13, 20, and 27, offering insights into the books’ histories and controversies.
Exploring the Themes
Each film in the series offers a unique perspective on themes that sparked controversy and censorship. Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird faced bans for its unflinching portrayal of racism and use of racial slurs. Nabokov’s Lolita was censored for its exploration of inappropriate obsession. Burgess’s A Clockwork Orange encountered bans for its graphic depictions of violence and criminal behavior. Kesey’s One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest was challenged for its critique of institutional authority and its portrayal of rebelliousness against oppressive systems.
Join Us for an Unforgettable Experience
The Strand Theatre’s film series is more than just movie screenings; it’s an opportunity to engage with stories that challenged societal norms and faced suppression, only to become celebrated cinematic masterpieces. This series highlights the enduring power of literature and film to provoke thought and inspire change. Don’t miss this chance to see how banned books have transcended their controversial origins to become cultural landmarks.
