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CinemaDecember 2014 – January 2015

The most common questions I get asked as Head of Cinema is“Why aren’t you showing X? When will we get to see Y? Have youthought about bringing back Z?” The challenge of selecting the filmsfor the DCA cinema programme every six weeks is not so muchabout what I am going to put in, but what I am going to leave out.With 12 to 14 new films released in the UK each week and only twoscreens on which to put them, it is a constant challenge. Jugglingdistributors’ requirements for the numbers of shows on major releases with the alternative content now available through live satellite events, there is always a concern that the smaller, more challenging films or classic re-releases won’t appear in our programme. I sincerely hope I get the balance right but if the film you were hoping to see in our lovely auditoria isn’t featured here, perhaps this will offer you an explanation.

That said, the diversity and range included in this December –January guide surprises even me. From the sure-to-be-nominated-for-an-Oscar titles like Birdman, Unbroken, and The Theory of Everything to titles-you’ve-not-heard-of-yet-but-won’t-want-to-misslike Kon-Tiki and Whiplash, to classic sci-fi restorations like 2001 andBlade Runner, there literally should be something to please everyone.Our Holiday selection includes sing-along screenings of Frozen aswell as Dundee’s favourite Christmas film It’s A Wonderful Life. We have decided to offer both of these as assigned seating whichmeans you’ll be sure to be able to sit next to your loved ones duringthe screenings.

We hope you have a wonderful holiday season, full of cheer and ofcourse great cinema. Just a word of warning, in addition to our usualclosure (25 & 26 December and 1 & 2 January), DCA will also beclosed for some necessary refurbishment on Mon 5, Tue 6 and Wed 7 January.

We looking forward to seeing you in 2015!

Alice BlackHead of Cinema

Additional contributors: Brian Hoyle, Simon Lewis, Adam Lockhart, James Mulvey, Chris O’Neill, Mike Tait

ContentsNew FilmsThe Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies 4The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part One 4Stations of the Cross 5St. Vincent 5Me, Myself and Mum 6Men, Women & Children 6Kon-Tiki 7Birdman 7The Possibilities are Endless 8Big Eyes 9National Gallery 9The Theory of Everything 10Unbroken 10Testament of Youth 11Foxcatcher 12Wild 12Whiplash 13

Play it Again, SamMr. Turner 14CITIZENFOUR 14

International Film Festival RotterdamAtlantic 15Erbarme Dich – Matthäus-Passion Stories 15Melody 15Speed Walking 15

Science Fiction2001: A Space Odyssey 19

DundeadBlade Runner – The Final Cut 19

Filmmaking ShowcasesTV21 20Discovery Film School Dundee 20

DocumentaryLife Itself 21Take One Action: Open Bethlehem 21Alasdair Gray: A Life in Progress 21

Discovery Holiday FilmsFrozen Sing-along 22Paddington 22Penguins of Madagascar 23Aladdin 23

Merry ChristmasTrading Places 24It’s a Wonderful Life 24The Muppet Christmas Carol 25White Christmas 25

Happy New YearNorthern Soul 26Guys and Dolls 26Withnail and I 27Holiday 27

Performance ScreeningsLive from the Met: Die Meistersinger Von Nϋrnberg 28Bolshoi: The Nutcracker 28Girl with a Pearl Earring 28NT Live: Treasure Island 28Bolshoi: Swan Lake 28Live from the Met: The Merry Widow 28

DCA Film Quiz 29

Ciné Sundays 30

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welcome

4 www.dca.org.uk Tickets 01382 909 900 5

NewFilms

The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies Fri 12 – Thu 31 December

The final part of Peter Jackson’s Hobbit trilogy reaches ourscreens in time for Christmas and it won’t be without a littlesadness that our annual trips to Middle Earth come to an end.In The Battle of the Five Armies the scene is set for some ofthe best loved parts of the book to be recreated. Smaug thedragon is awake and Laketown is about to fall under hisshadow.

Did Bilbo recover the Arkenstone? Will Thorin reclaim his titleand the throne of Erebor? Suffice to say that the change oftitle for this instalment, from There and Back Again to TheBattle of the Five Armies, gives us a clue as to what to expectfrom the rousing finale of this epic trilogy. Don’t be fooled into thinking that all has been revealed though, as for thosedelighted by the appearance of Stephen Fry in part two, another national treasure (Billy Connolly) appears, as Dain Ironfoot, a dwarf King who heeds Thorin’s call to arms. As impossible dangers rise in Middle Earth the tension builds,and with marvellous technical achievements by the NewZealand filmmakers, this close to the trilogy is un-missablecinema.

Dir: Peter Jackson New Zealand / USA 2014 / 2h40m / Digital 3D / 12A

The Hunger Games:Mockingjay – Part One Fri 12 – Thu 18 December

The Hunger Games adaptations could have suffered from having such a dramatic ‘to be continued’ ending. Instead the traction that thestory had gained just whets the appetite for more.With a change of focus away from the survivalhorror of the first two parts, Mockingjay – PartOne continues the story and takes us further intothe world of Panem. Having defiantly shatteredthe spectacle of the games, Katniss goes to District 13 and her notoriety and fame takes her tothe leadership of the rebellion against the Capitol.

There can be no doubt that The Hunger Gamesmost valuable player is still Jennifer Lawrence.The journey through this dystopian future is soldas much by Lawrence’s characterisation as it is by the striking visuals. Katniss as the reluctanthero remains a refreshing lead and her battle with the trauma of combat, as well as the self-realisation of her own importance is pivotal to hersuccess as the Mockingjay. With President Snowrecognising this and exerting control over Peeta to counter the uprising, this instalment could bedescribed as the power games.

Returning director Francis Lawrence confidentlytakes charge of the increasing scale of proceedings. Julianne Moore’s President Coin is just one of the major stars taking a role. PhillipSeymour Hoffman also features, sadly in his last screen role, while the young cast proves as dynamic and exciting to watch, with NatalieDormer, Sam Claflin and Josh Hutcherson allworth mentioning.

Dir: Francis Lawrence USA 2014 / 2h3m / Digital / 12A

St. Vincent Fri 19 – Wed 24 December

This is a role that Bill Murray was born to play. Curmudgeonlybut with a heart of gold, his character of Vincent will take hisplace in the canon of grumpy old men films along with thebest of them.

Vincent lives in a working-class neighbourhood with his catand his car. A veteran of the Vietnam War, he happily sits onhis deck chair wearing the same clothes, drinking beer everyday. When single-mom Maggie (Melissa McCarthy) moves innext door with her awkward son Oliver (Jaeden Leiberher), hisworld is set to change. Struggling to make ends meet with herdemanding job in a medical lab, Maggie enlists Vincent's helpwith after-school babysitting. Forget teaching the boy how toplay baseball or chess, the life lessons Vincent has in mind aremore to do with self-assertion and rudeness. High-jinx ensue,but along the way the unlikely duo learn a lot from each other,building a solid friendship.

The main reason to watch this film is for Murray's devil-may-care portrayal of Vincent, although Naomi Watts is surprisinglygood as his Russian stripper girlfriend and newcomer Leiberher is a real find. Much like its central character this film is not politically correct, but it has a heart of gold –perfect viewing for Christmas.

Dir: Theodore Melfi USA 2014 / 1h42m / Digital / 12A

Stations of the Cross KreuzwegTue 16 – Thu 18 December

Much like the work of Michael Haneke, there is a rigorous formalism imposed on Stations of the Cross that includes long stationary shots, reflecting the episodic nature of the narrative. The film is broken up into fourteen thematic segments, cleverly interpreted to mirror the fourteen scenes from Christ’s final journey to Calvary. At the beginning of each station thecamera is locked off and the actors movethrough the frame evoking a spectatorship more akin to theatre.

The opening scene sees Maria (Lea Van Ackenwho gives a stellar performance) with a CatholicChurch group, the fictitious Society of Saint Paul. Getting ready to make their Confirmation, a passionate young priest sets the context and the tone for the film through some regressivehard line Catholicism. The dogmatic Maria poses a question that sees her take a huge leap of faith, sacrificing herself to aid her autisticyounger brother. Maria is attempting to juggle the everyday trials and tribulations of being afourteen year old girl – in terms of school andboys – with the fire and brimstone of ultra-conservative Catholicism and an overbearing,pious mother.

Directed by Dietrich Brüggemann and co-writtenwith his sister Anna (for which they won the SilverBear for Best Screenplay at the Berlin Film Festival) Stations of the Cross is a truly originalfilm peppered with wonderful dark humour, poking fun at the extremities of religion and theabsurdity of adolescence.

Dir: Dietrich Brüggemann Germany 2014 / 1h47m / Digital / German,French & Latin with English subtitles / 15

NewFilms


Me, Myself and Mum Les garçons et Guillaume, à table!Sat 27 – Tue 30 December

A hit from last year’s French Film Festival we are delighted tobring Me, Myself and Mum back to our screens. Based on his highly acclaimed one-man show, this unique comedy is an inventive exploration of writer/director/star Guillaume Gallienne's upbringing, his unconventional relationship withhis mother and his journey towards heterosexuality after a lifetime of being told by everyone he was gay. Playing bothhimself (as a child, teen and adult) and his mother, Gallienne is a joy to watch; flamboyant and often hysterically funny,whilst also being honest and frank with his story.

Born into a well-to-do family, Guillaume struggles to connectwith his macho dad and two older sporty brothers. Devotedto his aristocratic mother, he prefers to spend time in herworld, so much so that he has developed a perfect impersonation of her. Often mistaken for her on the phone, he finds himself constantly involved in more feminine pursuits.From a student exchange in Spain to his sojourn at an Englishboarding school (captured beautifully), he unquestionably accepts the role that everyone assumes he should play.

Gallienne's wide eyed face is like something out of the silentera, but he is without doubt a very gifted physical comedianwhose child-like personae is so endearing you forgive anyself-indulgence on display. Me, Myself and Mumwas a hugehit in France, winning two prizes at Cannes and five CésarAwards – we know you’ll love Guillaume as much as we do.

Dir: Guillaume Gallienne France 2013 / 1h35m / Digital / French with Englishsubtitles / 15

Men, Women & Children Sat 27 – Wed 31 December

In an age where technology seems to have takenover our lives and social media has become ourprimary method of communication, Jason Reitman’s Men, Women & Children is a soberinglook at how disconnected from reality the modernfamily can become.

Based on the novel by Chad Kultgen, this is a richtapestry of several Austin families, whose lives, ina variety of ways, are impacted by the internet.Married couple Don (Adam Sandler) and Helen(Rosemarie Dewitt) have lost their spark and bothlook for excitement online. Hyper-vigilant motherPatricia (Jennifer Garner) controls her teenagedaughter’s (Kaitlyn Dever) internet use in an attempt to keep her safe. Single-mom Donna(Judy Greer) desperately wants her over-confidentand pretty daughter to get the film career shenever had, so she creates a provocative websiteto sell alluring pictures of the young girl. And that’sjust the parents. Meanwhile the children try tonavigate the murky world of bullying, body imageand teenage anxiety.

As all of the stories begin to interweave, it is the young people who ultimately understand theinsidiousness of technology, realising what theolder generation seems to have forgotten – thatfamily, friendship and love are what really matters.A top-notch ensemble piece, there are so manystellar performances on display here. Kudos mustgo to Sandler (the man can clearly act, so whydoes he insist on making so many bad films?) andteen sensation Ansel Elgort who has now officiallycornered the market on any sensitive young manroles on offer.

Dir: Jason Reitman USA 2014 / 1h49m / Digital / 15

Birdman Fri 9 – Thu 22 January

Alejandro González Iñárritu is the accomplished storyteller responsible for the explosive Amores Perros (Love's A Bitch) and the haunting Biutiful. His latest, Birdman (or The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) defies categorisation. A tour-de-force on all levels (script, performance, special effects)this is the film which he has been working towards making hiswhole career.

In a stroke of casting genius, Micheal Keaton plays RigganThompson, a middle-aged actor whose career is faltering after years playing the successful screen superhero 'Birdman'.In an attempt to move away from his Hollywood past and be taken seriously as an actor, Riggan decides to invest everything in a risky Broadway show based on a RaymondCarver story. Success seems unlikely as the production isplagued by problems, egos and most dangerous of all, Riggan's self-doubt. Despite having support from his bestfriend Jake (Zach Galifanakis), ex-wife Sylvia (Amy Ryan) and his recovering-addict daughter Sam (Emma Stone), itlooks like this might be the end of the road for Riggan as hisalter-ego Birdman threatens to take over.

While his performance clearly resonates with his own stint as Batman, it is wonderful to see Keaton on such great form –delicately balancing comedy and pathos. He is perfectly complemented by Edward Norton's despicable Mike Shiner,the egotistical actor brought in at the last minute to save theshow, possibly destroying Riggan's sanity. CinematographerEmmanuel Lubezki brings to life the historic St. James Theatreon 44th Street, while the New York streets that surround it become integral characters in this incredible story.

Dir: Alejandro González Iñárritu USA 2014 / 1h59m / Digital / 15

Kon-Tiki Sat 3, Sun 4 & Thu 8 January

Already committed to film in an Oscar-winning1950 documentary, the Kon-Tiki expedition hasearned a place in the history books. This retellingis the tale of Thor Heyerdahl who built himself abalsawood raft and set adrift from Peru into thePacific, determined to prove the idea that thePolynesian islands could have been settled bySouth Americans in pre-Columbian times. With a massively popular book and documentary tofollow, his story was propelled to the attention ofthe world.

Recalling the spirit of matinee adventure films theproduction has credentials that are impeccable.With lavish, globetrotting staging, the film-makerstook a gamble that could scupper many a pro-duction. By filming in the open sea from a basenear Malta, the ocean-going sections of the filmbenefit from an authenticity that could not havebeen achieved otherwise. The visual effects arestunning and add to that a sound design which istruly immersive; you’ll be forgiven for ducking asthe waves crash across the screen. The biggestNorwegian film production to date, Kon-Tikigarnered an Oscar nomination for best foreignlanguage picture.

Dirs: Joachim Rønning, Espen Sandberg UK / Norway / Denmark / Germany Sweden 2012 / 1h58m / Digital / Norwegianwith English subtitles / 15


NewFilms

The Possibilities Are Endless Sat 3 January, 18:00

For three years filmmaker Ed Lovelace and his creative partner James Hall worked with singer/songwriter EdwynCollins, collecting interviews and filming at his home in Helmsdale. Their goal was to create a poignant portrait of the musician, his rise to fame, the stroke he suffered in 2005 (at the age of just 44), and the journey back to creating music which followed; they succeeded.

Collins’ musical career took off in 1979 when his band Orange Juice signed to Postcard Records (a label he co-founded). The group released four albums; with their biggest hit Rip It Up reaching No. 8 in the UK singles chart.Collins later went on to find solo success and in 1994 his single A Girl Like Youwas a massive hit both in the UK and the US.

This film is not a traditional talking heads documentary full of interviews or archive footage of Collins, but rather a poetic and philosophical look at identity, memory and the human spirit. Lovelace blends together poetic dream-sequences with drama (actress Yasmin Paige and Collins’ son Will recreate the early days of Collins’ relationship with his wife Grace), and the result is a film where fact and fiction sit side by side, with the form and content mirroring each other. The Possibilities Are Endless is as visually beautiful as it is thought-provoking, and while on paper this is a film about the creative process and recovery, it is, most importantly, a love story:the relationship between Collins and Grace is an inspiration.

Dir: Ed Lovelace UK 2013 / 1h23m / Digital / 12A

National Gallery Sun 11 January, 13:00

Even at the grand age of 84, veteran director Frederick Wiseman shows no signs of slowing down. In the past fiveyears he has made six films and this latest offering, NationalGallery could hardly be called a modest undertaking. Filmedover 12 weeks, Wiseman has built a cinematic portrait of thegreat London institution – from behind the scenes to in front ofthe paintings – this is observational documentary filmmaking at its best. With no voiceover and no interviews, Wiseman allows his camera to record visitor tours, staff meetings,restorations, installations and even protests.

Despite masterpieces from Titian, Leonardo Da Vinci, J.M.W. Turner and Rembrandt on display, National Gallery Director Nicholas Penny and Head of Communications JillPreston debate how to attract new audiences to the museumwithout compromising its heritage. As much as the paintingsthemselves, it is the people who make this institution surviveand Wiseman in his quiet, unobtrusive way pays tribute tothem all.

Dir: Fredrick Wiseman USA 2014 / 2h53m / Digital / cert tbc

Big Eyes Fri 9 – Thu 22 January

In a departure from the fantasy, sci-fi and horrorthat Tim Burton has become known for recently,Big Eyes is the story of a misunderstood artistwho struggled to be recognised in her own lifetime.

In the late 1950s, having escaped a destructivemarriage, Margaret Keane (Amy Adams) moves to San Francisco with her daughter in the hope of making a living as a painter. Lonely and unsureof herself, when she meets a charming fellowartist Walter (Christophe Waltz), it seems as if all her dreams have come true. Their romance is threatened however when Walter begins to understand that the public prefer her paintings of sad children with huge eyes over his pedestrian landscapes. A natural salesman, it isn’t long before Walter claims the popular ‘big eyes’ work as his own, with Margaret toomeek to contradict him. As his fame increasesand she is forced to work around the clock to meet demand, cracks begin to appear in their relationship.

Waltz is brilliant as the egotistical and ambitiousWalter, a man only interested in profit and status,while Adams makes the role of Keane her own.Sure to re-ignite interest in the artist’s uniquestyle, this film is clearly a labour of love for Burton. While it might seem a straightforward narrative for someone with his filmography, BigEyes has some terrific visual flourishes which willnot disappoint his die-hard fans.

Dir: Tim Burton USA 2014 / 1h46m / Digital / cert tbc Bring a Baby Screening Thu 15 January, 10:30

We are pleased to welcome Edwyn Collins and his wife Grace Maxwell to DCA for a special Q&A eventafter this screening on Sat 3 January.


NewFilms

The Theory of Everything Fri 9 – Thu 22 January

On the surface, The Theory of Everythingmight be describedas a bio-pic of one of the greatest men of our time, StephenHawking. In truth it is much more the portrait of a marriagebetween the scientific genius and his supportive wife Jane. With exquisite period detail and two strong central performances, this is an elegant piece of work which is sureto have its name called out when the Oscar nominations areannounced in February.

Based on Jane Hawking's memoir, The Theory of Everythingspans 25 years in the couple's history, from the moment oftheir meeting to their amicable parting of ways. Already making a name for himself at Cambridge, Hawking (EddieRedmayne) meets Jane (Felicity Jones), an intelligent literaturestudent, at a party. Despite their different views on how theworld operates, they fall in love. Not long into their relationshiphowever, Hawking receives the devastating diagnosis ofmotor neurone disease, given only a few years to live. Jane refuses to allow him to withdraw from the world and doeseverything she can to ensure he keeps working. Despite theodds, the couple fashion a unique family life, bringing up theirtwo children, working on Hawking's theories, and coping withhis deteriorating condition.

A frank portrait of living with the challenges of illness, Marsh'sfilm draws the relationship between the two with great careand respect. A true partnership, Jane never becomes a martyr to the cause and Hawking is shown to have a vitalitythat more than explains the attraction between them. Redmayne's performance is a real achievement, capturingnot only the physical limits of this most famous man, but alsohis sense of fun and mischief. If you are expecting scientifictheory here you will be disappointed – this is a film of love,from its passionate beginning to its bittersweet end.

Dir: James Marsh UK / USA 2014 / 2h03m / Digital / 12ASenior Citizen Kane Club Screening Thu 22 January, 10:30Bring a baby Screening Thu 22 January, 10:30

Unbroken Fri 9 – Thu 15 January

Angelina Jolie’s directorial debut In the Land ofBlood and Honey – a tale of dark love in the midstof the Serbian conflict – was disappointingly neverreleased in the UK. There's absolutely no chancethat her second film behind the camera will sufferthe same fate. Based on the best-selling novelwith the same name, Unbroken is bound forOscar glory.

The film tells the harrowing but incredible truestory of Louis Zamperini (played by Starred Up’sJack O’Connell), who from a childhood in Torrance, California, went on to make an appearance at the 1936 Berlin Olympics as a long distance runner. During World War II, whenhis bomber crashed into the Pacific Ocean, it signalled the beginning of a gruelling ordeal at sea followed by years of crushing abuse in Japanese prisoner-of-war camps which he survived through sheer force of will.

Universal Studios first acquired the rights to Zamperini’s life story back in 1957 and there havebeen several attempts to bring it to the screen.With Jolie in the director’s chair and the CoenBrothers working on the script, this latest incarnation was sure to succeed. 97 year oldZamperini, who acted as a consultant to the project, is nothing less than an inspiration.

Dir: Angelina Jolie USA 2014 / 2h17m / Digital / cert tbcSenior Citizen Kane Club Screening Thu 15 January, 10:30

Testament of Youth Fri 16 – Thu 29 January

Released to coincide with the centenary of the outbreak of the First World War, James Kent's adaptation of Vera Brittain's book Testament of Youth is a quality affair. For those of you who remember the much-loved 1979 televisionseries, you won’t be disappointed as this new version absolutely does the source material justice and is a sensitiveadaptation of the first volume of Brittain's memories – a devastating tale of love, honour and loss.

The film opens as Vera (Danish actress Alicia Vikander last seen at DCA in A Royal Affair), a modern, middle-class girl with a keen intellect and fiery spirit, is desperate to follow her beloved brother Edmund (Taron Egerton) to study at Oxford. Although her father is reluctant, he agrees to let her sit the exam, where, despite being untutored, she wins a place at Somerville College. Just as a summer romance with one of her brother's friends, budding poet RolandLeighton (Game of Thrones Kit Harington) begins to blossom, Edmund, Roland and Victor (Merlin's Colin Morgan) enlist as the War breaks out in Europe. While the three young men disappear off to the battlefield to face horror and almost certain death, Vera's path was emblematic to all those who were left behind, living a life of fear and eventuallygrief as loved ones and futures are stolen.

A feminist and life-long pacifist, Brittain went on to become an important force in British politics. Her daughter, Liberalpolitician Shirley Williams, gave her consent for this production, as did her biographer Mark Bostridge. The result is a film which is not worthy or po-faced, but rather crafted with such care and attention that it seems even more heart-breaking. Costume designer Consolata Boyle is a sure-bet for Best Costume Oscar and Vikander is luminous –at once delicate and resilient.

Dir: James Kent UK / 2014 / 2h09m / Digital / 12ASenior Citizen Kane Club Screening Thu 29 January, 10:30Bring a Baby Screening Thu 29 January, 10:30


Foxcatcher Fri 23 January – Thu 5 February

A huge hit at Cannes, Toronto and New York Film Festivals, it is an exciting moment for us to finally have this powerful film on our screens. The dark and tragic real-life story of obsession, privilege and ultimately murder, Foxcatcher is quitesimply one of the best contemporary films American cinemahas to offer.

Lonely and deeply eccentric, millionaire John Eleuthère duPont (an unrecognisable Steve Carrell) lives with his ageingmother (Vanessa Redgrave) on their sprawling estate. Knownprimarily as an ornithologist, du Pont becomes obsessed withthe sport of wrestling and decides to build a world-class eliteathletic facility on the family estate, Foxcatcher. To fulfill hisdream, he invites Olympic Gold Medallist Mike Shultz (Channing Tatum) to join his camp and train for the 1998Seoul Olympics. Desperate to escape the shadow of hisolder, more outgoing brother Dave (Mark Ruffalo), Mike jumpsat the offer. Initially Foxcatcher seems like paradise as duPont gives the impressionable young man everything hecould want, but it’s not long before the benefactor’s supportcrosses the line into obsession.

While a lot will be made of Steve Carell's prosthetic nose and creepy performance as the troubled millionaire, Tatum'staciturn, at times childlike Mike is heartbreaking and Ruffalo'seasy-going charm makes Dave the older brother everyonewould want to have. Director Bennett Miller allows the characters to develop slowly and the result is a nuanced storyof class and privilege and the very real destruction of onefamily's American dream.

Dir: Bennett Miller USA 2014 / 2h14m / Digital / 15

Wild Fri 23 – Thu 29 January

Adapted from Cheryl Strayed’s account of her1,100 mile hike across the Pacific Crest Trail, Wild is a story of self-discovery and physical endurance. With some incredible locations and a very strong central performance by Reese Witherspoon, paired with a script by the unlikelyNick Hornby and Jean-Marc Vallée (Dallas BuyersClub) at the helm, Wild is another one of thisyear’s Oscar front-runners.

The early death of her mother Bobbi (Laura Dern)at 45 sends Strayed on a path of self-destruction,sex and heroin addiction. And when her marriagecollapses, she decides to clean up and face herdemons through an ambitious and harsh physicalchallenge. Along the three month trek from the Mojave Desert to the Oregon-Washington border,she gets help from unlikely sources and most importantly begins to rely on her inner strengthagain. As the narrative moves back and forth between the lonely present, and flashbacks to her difficult past, Witherspoon captures Strayed’sfeistiness perfectly: this woman is a survivor.

Although there are moments of real danger andvisceral pain en route (involving toenails, enoughsaid), there are also moments of great clarity and poetry (Strayed has a fondness for quotingEmily Dickinson and Robert Frost) and Hornby’s measured script keeps the film far from descending into a series of worn-out clichés.

Dir: Jean-Marc Vallée USA 2014 / 1h55m / Digital / 15

NewFilms

Whiplash Fri 23 January – Thu 5 February

Damien Chazelle’s Sundance prize-winning film features some unorthodox teaching methods which blow Dead PoetSociety out of the water with a single drumbeat. This story of artistic ambition played out between a jazz prodigy and his abusive mentor is a battle of wills which will have you on the edge of your seat throughout, and standing up applauding by the end.

Drummer Andrew (Miles Teller) attends a New York music conservatory where he is determined to make his mark. Hisfocused practice draws the attention of Terence Fletcher (J.K. Simmons), a legend in the jazz world whose ensembleclass is the prize goal of most students. Fletcher expects perfection and has no problem bullying a performance out of his group, and despite the blood, sweat and tears, Andrew is ready to put up with almost anything in his pursuit ofgreatness. While Fletcher may think the young man will crack under pressure like all the others, Andrew proves to havea few tricks up his own sleeve, and the two fight it out until the bitter end.

Teller, who until now has been the best thing in some not so great teen films, is a revelation. Able to capture Andrew’stroubled rage as well as his desperate desire to please, he must have been a joy to cast as the young actor is also agifted drummer. Until now, J.K. Simmons’ face has been more recognisable than his name after decades of characterroles in film and TV. That's definitely about to change. His Fletcher is a mesmerizing blend of pure ego, testosteroneand keen intelligence. Our advice to Simmons would be to get a good suit – he's going to need it come award time!

Dir: Damien Chazelle USA 2013 / 1h45m / Digital / 15


Play it Again, Sam

We are pleased to bring you IFFR Live, a series of film premiere events held simultaneously at DCA and in venues across Europe from the 44th International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR). Following each premiere screening you will see cast and crew live via satellite and can join in with a Q&A sessionvia Twitter. A fifth premiere is still to be announced, taking place on Wed 28 January at 18:00. Visit dca.org.uk to find out more.

International Film FestivalRotterdam

Atlantic European premiere: Sat 24 January, 15:00

After watching European tourists come and go for many years, Fettah takes off on anepic ocean journey along the Moroccan Atlantic coast to Europe on a windsurf board.

Dir: Jan-Willem van EwijkNetherlands 2014 / 1h29m / Digital / cert tbc

Erbarme Dich – Matthäus-Passion Stories World Premiere: Sun 25 January, 15:00

A labyrinthine narrative in which people such as Peter Sellars, Emio Greco, SimonHalsey and painter Rinke Nijburg relate their special relationship with Bach’s St MatthewPassion. Pieter Jan Leusink’s Bach Choir and Orchestra provide the score, while agroup of homeless people serve as their audience.

Dir: Ramón GielingNetherlands 2015 / time tbc / Digital / cert tbc

Melody European premiere: Mon 26 January, 18:00

Melody, a young woman of twenty-eight, decides to become a surrogate mother in return for a large sum of money that will allow her to at last buy the hair salon that shedreams of.

Dir: Bernard BellefroidBelgium / Luxembourg / France 2014 / 1h30m / digital / cert tbc

Speed Walking European premiere: Tue 27 January, 18:00

In a quirky, small town, situated on the outskirts of everything, 14-year-old Martin is getting ready for one of the most formal transitions from boy to man; the communion.An intense, humorous and evocative story about how life and death demands a transition in us all.

Dir: Niels Arden OplevDenmark 2014 / 1h48m / Digital / cert tbc

Mr. Turner Thu 8 January

Mike Leigh’s Mr. Turner is quite simply one of the veteranfilmmaker’s finest works, and, in time, could easily beconsidered one of the masterpieces of modern cinema.

Anchored by a magnificent performance from TimothySpall (awarded Best Actor at this year’s Cannes FilmFestival) as J.M.W. Turner, this film is a triumph of smalldetail, observation, language and, most of all, the gloriesof artistic eccentricity.

Mr. Turner is constructed through a series of episodes inthe painter’s life – moving from an opening scene in theNetherlands to his return to London where he lovinglygreets his father (Paul Jesson), brusquely fondles hislongstanding housekeeper Hannah and gruffly rebukeshis spurned mistress (Ruth Sheen) and his daughter. A cast of women indeed weave in and out of Turner’slife, including the learned Mary Somerville (LesleyManville) who instructs him on light and magnetism and the tender Sophia Booth (Marion Bailey) in whoseMargate boarding house Turner finds true solace.

Leigh succeeds in bringing to life not only Turner’s artistic circle but the larger tapestry of Victorian Englandand while Spall is without a doubt extraordinary, he ismatched by almost every single actor he shares thescreen with.

Dir: Mike Leigh UK 2014 / 2h30m / Digital / 12A

CITIZENFOUR Thu 8 January

Produced in secret, entirely under the radar of the USgovernment, Poitras’ film offers unprecedented accessto Edward Snowdon in the days leading up to the NSAleaks in June 2013.

Through a series of interviews in his Hong Kong hotelroom, CITIZENFOUR presents an intimate portrait ofSnowdon as he prepares to become one of history’smost notorious whistleblowers, risking his freedom and potentially his life in order to expose global mass-surveillance schemes being conducted by theNSA, implicating some of the world’s largest media organisations and many foreign governments.

Featuring the Pulitzer-prize winning journalist GlennGreenwald who first broke the news story and has continued to work with Snowdon, CITIZENFOURexamines the global impact of the NSA leaks and presents startling new evidence about the extent towhich we are all being surveyed.

Dir: Laura Poitras USA / Germany 2014 / 1h53m / Digital / 15

The festive season is the perfect time for catching up with family and friends - and on some films youmight have missed. Because of our limited space we often have to let films go before we’d like to, sowe decided to bring back a couple that people are desperate to see, or see again. Happy New Year!

16 www.dca.org.uk

Day / Film TimesFri 12 DecemberThe Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies 13:00/16:00 3D/19:30The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1 13:00/18:00Life Itself 15:30/20:30

Sat 13 DecemberThe Hobbit:The Battle of the Five Armies 11:00/14:00 3D/18:00 3DFrozen Sing-along 12:00Open Bethlehem 14:30Live from the Met: Die Meistersinger von Nurnberg 16:55The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1 21:00

Sun 14 DecemberFrozen Sing-along 10:30/15:30The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies 13:00/16:00 3D/19:30Life Itself 13:00Dundead: Blade Runner 18:00The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1 20:30

Mon 15 DecemberThe Hobbit:The Battle of the Five Armies 13:00/16:00 3D/19:30Life Itself 13:00/18:00The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1 15:30/20:30

Tue 16 DecemberThe Hobbit:The Battle of the Five Armies 13:00/16:00 3D/19:30Stations of the Cross 13:00/18:00The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1 15:30/20:30

Wed 17 DecemberThe Hobbit:The Battle of the Five Armies 13:00/16:00 3D/19:30Stations of the Cross 13:00The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1 15:30/20:30TV21 Showcase 18:00

Thu 18 DecemberThe Hobbit:The Battle of the Five Armies 13:00/16:00 3D/19:30 Stations of the Cross 13:00/18:00The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1 15:30/20:30

Day / Film TimesFri 19 DecemberIt’s a Wonderful Life 10:30/13:00The Hobbit:The Battle of the Five Armies 13:00/16:00 3D/19:30St. Vincent 15:30/18:00Trading Places 20:15

Sat 20 DecemberThe Hobbit:The Battle of the Five Armies 13:00/16:00 3D/19:30Paddington 12:002001: A Space Odyssey 14:30It’s a Wonderful Life 18:00St. Vincent 20:45

Sun 21 DecemberThe Hobbit:The Battle of the Five Armies 11:00/14:00 3D/18:00Paddington 12:00Bolshoi: The Nutcracker 15:00The Muppet Christmas Carol 18:00St. Vincent 20:302001: A Space Odyssey 21:00

Mon 22 DecemberThe Hobbit:The Battle of the Five Armies 13:00/16:00 3D/19:30Paddington 13:00It’s a Wonderful Life 15:15St. Vincent 18:00/20:30

Tue 23 DecemberThe Hobbit:The Battle of the Five Armies 13:00/16:00 3D/19:30Paddington 13:00It’s a Wonderful Life 15:15White Christmas 18:00 St. Vincent 20:45

Wed 24 DecemberThe Hobbit:The Battle of the Five Armies 13:00/16:00 3D/19:30Paddington 13:00St. Vincent 15:15It’s a Wonderful Life 18:00

Thu 25 DecemberCLOSED

Fri 26 DecemberCLOSED

diary KeyBring a Baby

Senior Citizen Kane Club Performance Screening

Discovery Family Film ClubSubtitled

Ciné Sunday

Tickets 01382 909 900 17

Day / Film TimesSat 27 DecemberPenguins of Madagascar 13:00Men, Women & Children 13:00/20:30The Hobbit:The Battle of the Five Armies 15:00 3D/18:00Paddington 15:30Me, Myself and Mum 18:00/21:00

Sun 28 DecemberMe, Myself and Mum 10:30/18:00/21:00Men, Women & Children 13:00/20:45Penguins of Madagascar 13:00The Hobbit:The Battle of the Five Armies 15:00 3D/18:00Paddington 15:30

Mon 29 DecemberPenguins of Madagascar 13:00Men, Women & Children 13:00/20:30The Hobbit:The Battle of the Five Armies 15:00 3D/18:00Paddington 15:30Me, Myself and Mum 18:00/21:00

Tue 30 DecemberPenguins of Madagascar 13:00Men, Women & Children 13:00/18:00/20:30The Hobbit:The Battle of the Five Armies 15:00 3D/18:00Paddington 15:30Me, Myself and Mum 21:00

Wed 31 DecemberPenguins of Madagascar 13:00Men, Women & Children 13:00The Hobbit:The Battle of the Five Armies 15:00 3D/18:00Paddington 15:30Northern Soul 18:00

Thu 1 January CLOSED

Fri 2 JanuaryCLOSED

Sat 3 JanuaryKon Tiki 13:00/18:00/20:45Paddington 13:00Penguins of Madagascar 15:30Guys and Dolls 15:30The Possibilities are Endless 18:00Withnail and I 20:30

Sun 4 JanuaryKon Tiki 11:00/18:00Paddington 13:00/17:30Alasdair Gray 13:30Holiday 15:00Penguins of Madagascar 15:45

Day / Film TimesMon 5 JanuaryCLOSED

Tue 6 JanuaryCLOSED

Wed 7 JanuaryCLOSED

Thu 8 JanuaryMr. Turner 14:00/18:00Kon Tiki 18:00/21:00CITIZENFOUR 14:15/20:30

Fri 9 JanuaryThe Theory of Everything 13:00/18:00Big Eyes 13:00/18:15Birdman 15:30/20:30Unbroken 15:30/20:45

Sat 10 JanuaryThe Theory of Everything 13:00/18:00Big Eyes 13:00/18:15Birdman 15:30/20:30Unbroken 15:30/20:45

Sun 11 JanuaryThe Theory of Everything 10:30/13:00/18:00National Gallery 13:00Birdman 15:30/20:30Unbroken 16:30/19:15Big Eyes 21:30

Mon 12 JanuaryThe Theory of Everything 13:00/18:00Big Eyes 13:00/18:15Birdman 15:30/20:30Unbroken 15:30/20:45

Tue 13 JanuaryThe Theory of Everything 13:00/18:00Big Eyes 13:00/15:30Birdman 15:30/20:30Exhibition on Screen: Girl with a Pearl Earring 18:00Unbroken 20:30

Wed 14 JanuaryThe Theory of Everything 13:00/18:00Big Eyes 13:00/18:15Birdman 15:30/20:30Unbroken 15:30/20:45

Thu 15 JanuaryBig Eyes 10:30/13:00/18:15Unbroken 10:30/15:30/20:45The Theory of Everything 13:00/18:00Birdman 15:30/20:30

Accessible Screenings Audio description is available for all screenings of The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1,Men, Women & Children, Unbroken and The Theory of Everything. The following screenings will also have subtitles: The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1 Mon 15 December, 20:30 Men, Women & Children Mon 29 December, 20:30 Unbroken Sun 11 January, 16:30 The Theory Of Everything Mon 19 January, 18:00

Day / Film TimesFri 16 JanuaryBirdman 13:00/15:45/20:45Testament of Youth 13:15/18:30The Theory of Everything 15:30/20:30Big Eyes 18:00

Sat 17 JanuaryAladdin 13:00Testament of Youth 13:15/18:00Birdman 15:00/21:15Big Eyes 15:30Live from the Met:The Merry Widow 17:55 (sold out)Theory of Everything 20:30

Sun 18 JanuaryTestament of Youth 10:30/13:15/18:30Birdman 13:00/15:45/20:45The Theory of Everything 15:30/20:30Big Eyes 18:00

Mon 19 JanuaryThe Theory of Everything 13:00/18:00Testament of Youth 13:15/18:30Big Eyes 15:30/20:30Birdman 15:45/20:45

Tue 20 JanuaryThe Theory of Everything 13:00/18:00Testament of Youth 13:15/18:30Big Eyes 15:30/20:30Birdman 15:45/20:45

Wed 21 JanuaryThe Theory of Everything 13:00/18:00Testament of Youth 13:15/18:30Big Eyes 15:30/20:30Birdman 15:45/20:45

Thu 22 JanuaryThe Theory of Everything 10:30/10:30/13:00/20:30Testament of Youth 13:15/18:00Big Eyes 15:30Birdman 15:45/22:00NT Live: Treasure Island 19:00

Day / Film TimesFri 23 JanuaryWild 13:00/18:00 Testament of Youth 13:00/18:00Foxcatcher 15:30/20:30Whiplash 15:45/20:45

Sat 24 JanuaryDiscovery Film School Dundee Screening 12:00Whiplash 12:45/20:45Wild 13:00/18:00IFFR: Atlantic 15:00Testament of Youth 15:30/18:00Foxcatcher 20:30

Sun 25 January Whiplash 10:30/21:00Foxcatcher 12:00/20:30Wild 12:45/18:30Bolshoi: Swan Lake 15:00IFFR: Erbarme Dich –Matthaus-Passion Stories 15:00Testament of Youth 18:00

Mon 26 JanuaryWild 12:00/19:15Testament of Youth 13:00/16:45Whiplash 14:30/21:30Foxcatcher 15:30/20:45IFFR: Melody 18:00

Tue 27 JanuaryWild 12:00/19:15Testament of Youth 13:00/16:45Whiplash 14:30/21:30Foxcatcher 15:30/20:30IFFR: Speed Walking 18:00

Wed 28 JanuaryWild 12:00/19:15Testament of Youth 13:00/16:45Whiplash 14:30/21:30Foxcatcher 15:30/20:30IFFR: to be announced 18:00

Thu 29 JanuaryTestament of Youth 10:30/10:30/13:00/18:00Wild 13:00/18:00Foxcatcher 15:30/20:30Whiplash 15:45/20:45


Science Fiction2001: A Space Odyssey Sat 20 & Sun 21 December

Stanley Kubrick’s iconic classic, written in collaborationwith Arthur C. Clarke, has come to occupy an almostunique place in popular culture. Its elements have become part of a shared lexicon, from its association with particular pieces of music to the most famous matchcut in cinematic history and the voice of the rational yetdeadly HAL 9000. However, Kubrick’s film is much morethan these moments; its grand scale covers the history of human evolution, posing insightful questions aboutwho we are and where we might go from here. Kubrickpresents future wonders as habitual and banal, but thereal wonder is in his making such abstract concepts so relatable, and so beautiful.

Dir: Stanley Kubrick USA 1968 / 2h20m / Digital / U

Blade Runner – The Final Cut Sun 14 December, 18:00

Ridley Scott's seminal science fiction picture Blade Runner remains as stunning and influential as it was when originally released over 30 years ago. Based on the novel Do Androids Dream Of Electric Sheep? by Philip K. Dick, it takes place in the dark, decaying Los Angeles of 2019. Rick Deckard (Harrison Ford) is a former Blade Runner called out of retirement to huntdown and terminate four replicants (androids with superior strength and intellect) who have returned toearth on a killing spree. There have been several versions of Blade Runner released over the years –the original theatrical version with studio-imposed alternations, ‘The Director’s Cut’ which Scott approved but did not have full control over, and now ‘The Final Cut’ which has been beautifully restored for exceptional picture and sound.

Dir: Ridley Scott USA / UK / Hong Kong 1982 / 1h48m / Digital / 15

20 www.dca.org.uk

Documentary

Tickets 01382 909 900 21

TV21 Experimental Video/Digital FilmWed 17 December, 18:00

TV21 is a project involving 16–19 year olds from theDundee area who have created new video art works taking inspiration from the REWIND Artists’ Video archivebased at DJCAD, University of Dundee. This archive consists of some 450 early examples of UK artists’ workfrom around 1970–1990, who were exploring a newmedium at a time when the practice was extremely innovative and experimental.

Introduced to the work through a series of workshops with artists, curators, archivists and education specialists,the group was given training covering camera operation,sound recording, lighting, editing, development of ideasand experimentation, including a visit to BBC Arts at Pacific Quay in Glasgow.

This event showcases the completed works by the young people, including introductions, and it will also feature works from the REWIND archive that have inspired the group.

This event is FREE but ticketed.

www.rewind.ac.ukwww.dundee.ac.uk/djcad

Open Bethlehem Sat 13 December, 14:30

Bethlehem-born Leila Mansour,armed with her camera and a dilapidated family car (that keepsbreaking down), returns to her childhood home to make a deeply personal film about a legendary townin crisis. However, just a few monthsinto the project her life and the filmtake an unexpected turn, whenLeila's cousin Carol, her last relativein town, persuades her to stay andstart a campaign to save the cityfrom irredeemable separation.

"One of the most remarkable andmoving documentaries I've everseen" Jon Snow

Take One Action and DCA are delighted to welcome director Leila Mansour to Dundee for a Q&A following this screening.www.takeoneaction.org.uk

Dir: Leila Mansour Occupied Palestinian Territory2014 / 1h30m / Digital / 15

Alasdair Gray: A Life in Progress Sun 4 January, 13:30Kevin Cameron’s feature-length portraitof Alasdair Gray is as entertaining andmulti-faceted as the man himself. It offers a colourful mosaic of fresh interviews, vintage archive footage andopportunities to view Gray at work ashe creates massive murals and sculptstightly formed essays. It even allowsGray to assume the role of a dapper, smooth-cheeked, smart-suited inquisitor to interview himself. Who better? What emerges is affectionateand playful with a good deal of attention focused on the long road to Lanark, as well as perceptive comments from Gray’s sister Mora Rolley and Liz Lochhead on how Graychanged how Glasgow thinks of itself.

Dir: Kevin CameronScotland 2013 / 1h36m / Digital /cert tbc

Life Itself Fri 12 – Mon 15 DecemberBased on his memoir of the samename, Life Itself is the story of one ofthe most influential film critics of ourtime, Roger Ebert. The documentarycharts his fascinating and flawed journey from politicized school newspaperman, to Chicago Sun-Timesmovie critic, to Pulitzer Prize winner, to television household name, to themiracle of finding love at 50, and finallyhis third act as a major voice on the Internet when he could no longer physically speak. Ebert bridged highand low culture, defending film as a populist medium even as he championed films that challengedmainstream aesthetics and expectations. Insisting on bare honesty, Life Itself is as much a love letter to the late Ebert as it is an expression of Ebert’s own love for hisfamily, humanity in general, and, ofcourse, the movies.

Dir: Steve James USA 2014 / 1h51m / Digital / 15

Discovery Film School DundeeSat 24 January, 12:00

Over the past four months twelve young film enthusiasts from across the region have been taking part in a practical filmmaking course, sponsored by the BFI. Working with professional artists they have had the opportunity to learn the film process from generating ideas right through to shooting, editing and now this very special moment, when their finished film will be seen up on the big screenfor the first ever time. As we go to print, participants arestill working on their films, with the exact content still very much under wraps, but if you would like to be at the world premiere, then join us for what promises to be a very exciting film launch indeed. Members of the group will be present to introduce the screening and take part in a Q&A session about their work afterwards.

This event is FREE but ticketed.

Young Filmmakers

DISCOVERY HOLIDAY FILMSTickets are £4.50 for under 21s / £5.50 for adults, or a family ticket for four costs £15. Children under theage of 12 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Workshops are free with your cinema ticket,but places are limited so please book in advance on 01382 909 900.

Frozen Sing-along Sat 13 & Sun 14 December

“Let it go! LET IT GO!” Follow the bouncing snowflake tojoin in with Anna, Elsa and friends and singalong with thefantastic songs in this Oscar-winning Disney snowfest.

Based on The Snow Queen by Hans Christian Andersen,fearless optimist Anna (Kristen Bell) sets off on an epicjourney – teaming up with rugged mountain man Kristoff(Jonathan Groff) and his loyal reindeer Sven – to find hersister Elsa (Idina Menzel), whose icy powers havetrapped the kingdom of Arendelle in eternal winter. Encountering Everest-like conditions, mystical trolls and a hilarious snowman named Olaf (Josh Gad), Anna and Kristoff battle the elements in a race to savethe kingdom.

Add to the festive atmosphere by coming to the FamilyFilm Club on Sat 13 December dressed as yourfavourite Frozen character! We’d love to see a cinemafull of Annas and Elsas and a few Kristoffs and Olafs too. And bonus points for anyone who turns up as Sven(because “Reindeer(s) Are Better Than People”)! Therewill be prizes for the best costumes, so call your “FixerUpper”, ask them “Do You Want To Build A Snowman?”and maybe (“For The First Time In Forever”?) you’ll beour winner!

Dirs: Chris Buck and Jennifer Lee USA 2013 / 1h48m / Digital / PG

Workshop: Sat 13 December, 11:00Create a cape fit for a snow king or queen!

22 www.dca.org.uk

Paddington Sat 20 December – Sun 4 January

Nearly 60 years after Michael Bond wrote the first stories about Paddington, the blue duffel coat-wearingbear from Peru makes it to the big screen for some adventures in London.

Having grown up in the Peruvian jungles, listening to hisAunt Lucy’s admiring tales of all things British, the youngbear is sent to England after his home is destroyed by anearthquake. Arriving alone and friendless at PaddingtonStation, his early experiences of the city are not withoutincident – until he meets the Brown family, who luckilydecide to follow the request written on his label: "‘Pleaselook after this bear. Thank you.’" Despite some earlymishaps, life soon improves for our hero, until hecatches the eye of a sinister taxidermist…

Featuring a truly glittering cast – including Hugh Bonneville and Sally Hawkins as Mr and Mrs Brown with Nicole Kidman as the evil taxidermist, alongsideJulie Walters, Jim Broadbent and Peter Capaldi – thevoice of our furry friend is provided by Ben Whishaw.Combining top-notch computer-generated imagery and animatronics from the teams behind Harry Potterand Gravity, this film is sure to create a new generationof fans to add to those who already have a taste for marmalade sandwiches.

Dir: Paul King UK/France 2014 / 1h35m / Digital / PG

Aladdin Sat 17 January, 13:00

We salute the much-missed talents of Robin Williamswith a screening of his show-stopping turn as The Geniein Aladdin, one of the most celebrated Disney tales.

It’s the age-old story: lovable “street rat” meets beautifulprincess and falls head over heels, but needs the assis-tance of a very large (and very talkative) lamp-dwellingally to overcome the obvious barriers in the way of thisrather unlikely union. Accompanied by some genuinelymemorable songs – including ‘Prince Ali’, the rousing‘Friend Like Me’ and the Oscar-winning ‘A Whole NewWorld’ – this colourful romp brought a fresh spin to famil-iar material, and was a key title in the Disney revival ofthe 1990s.

Robin Williams initially had to be persuaded to take thepart, and then insisted on devising much of the dialoguehimself, recording over 30 hours of hilarious improvisedmaterial. He went on to win a special Golden Globeaward for his vocal work on the film, and paved the wayfor many other well-known film stars to add ‘voice artistin an animated film’ to their list of achievements. Butthere’s only ever been one Robin Williams, and to manypeople he is the one and only Genie.

Dir: Ron Clements and John Musker USA 1992 / 1h30m / Digital / U

Workshop: Sat 17 January, 12:00Design your own magic carpet inspired by Middle Eastern pattern.

Tickets 01382 909 900 23

Workshop: Sat 20 December, 11:00Get ready for an adventure with your own packed and stamped suitcase.

We advise that you book in advance as this event islikely to sell out. Seats will be assigned to ensure thatgroups can sit together and enjoy the film.

Penguins of Madagascar Sat 27 December – Sun 4 January

They’re back – and this time they’ve got the wholemovie to themselves. We first met Skipper, Kowalski,Rico and Private in Madagsacarwhen they demonstrated their uncanny abilities in covert espionageas part of their audacious plan to break out of the Central Park Zoo. Now we discover that they’ve beenheadhunted by North Wind, an elite undercover inter-species task force. Working alongside a wolf, a harp seal, a polar bear and a snowy owl, the penguinsquad must help prevent Dr. Octavius Brine (an octopus)from his evil scheming for world domination. Cue awealth of James Bond-like thrills and spills, and even a Fort Knox heist to rival that in Goldfinger.

Joining the party are Benedict Cumberbatch (providingthe suave tones of Classified, the head of North Wind)and John Malkovich as the villainous Dr Brine (akaDave). In addition, film legend Werner Herzog plays himself as an overzealous documentary film maker prepared to stop at nothing to get the shot he wants.

The jokes come thick and fast in this spirited spy spoof,and the penguins are most definitely a force to reckonwith. Cheezy dibble, anyone?

Dirs: Eric Darnell and Simon J Smith USA 2014 / 1h32m / Digital / U

Tickets 01382 909 900 2524 www.dca.org.uk

Trading Places Fri 19 December, 20:15

One of the defining American comedies of the 1980s,this variation on The Prince and the Pauper, in which an arrogant yuppie finds his idyllic life taken over by ahomeless con-man, takes some well-aimed swipes at“greed is good” Reaganomics and the American classsystem. The two leads, Dan Aykroyd and Eddie Murphy,have rarely found a better showcase for their talents andthe supporting cast simply couldn’t be better. Jamie LeeCurtis won a Bafta as the pragmatic hooker who takesthe destitute Aykroyd in, as did Denholm Elliott as awonderfully dry-witted butler. However, the real coupcomes in the casting of aging Hollywood legends DonAmeche and Ralph Bellamy as Randolph and MortimerDuke, perhaps the two most delightfully despicable employers in the history of cinema. Every scene they appear in is magic and they inject a real stream of cynical “bah-humbug” into this alternative seasonal classic.

Dir: John Landis USA 1983 / 1h58m / Digital / 15

It’s a Wonderful Life Fri 19 – Wed 24 December

Like overcooked poultry, Brussel sprouts, indigestionand the Queen’s Speech, It’s a Wonderful Life is aChristmas tradition. However, unlike these things, Frank Capra’s masterpiece is both tremendous fun andgood for you. Far from being a saccharine, sentimentalwallow, this film, in little over two hours, manages to runthe gamut of human emotions, from total joy to utter despair. Unquestionably made to give hope to post-warAmerica, the film shows us all the hardships of life in a world shaped by global conflict and economic depression, yet, in a final sublime moment of catharsis,reminds us why every individual matters and why life is worth living. But this is not just a film of its time; oversixty years on, It’s a Wonderful Life not only continues to give comfort, but remains as vital and relevant as ever.

Dir: Frank Capra USA 1946 / 2h10m / Digital / U

Merry ChristmasThe Muppet Christmas Carol Sun 21 December, 18:00

Michael Caine takes on the part of miserable old miserEbenezer Scrooge in this liberal but fun adaptation of A Christmas Carol. The beak-nosed Gonzo takes on therole of Dickens and narrates the tale, along with the helpof Rizzo the Rat. They take us on a journey through adank London, filled with all your favourite Muppets and a lot of talking vegetables too! Important components ofthe Dickens story remain, with Scrooge presiding overthe destinies of those who cannot meet their debts withhim. Such meanness is not tolerated by his deceased business partners who visit him one night promising thathe must face up to his misdeeds. And so he is visited bythe ghosts of Christmas past, present and future.

Dir: Brian Henson USA 1992 / Digital / 1h25m / U

White Christmas Tue 23 December, 18:00

White Christmas is the definitive seasonal musical. The story may be a simple variation on the “let’s put on a show” formula, but it all feels fresh thanks to a wittyscript, Michael Curtiz’s unfussy direction, a roster ofgreat Irving Berlin songs and a wonderful cast. BingCrosby makes it all seem effortless, whether he is crooning the title song, delivering a moving speech to old army buddies or doing a drag-act. RosemaryClooney is a perfect sparring and singing partner for him and Vera-Ellen really comes into her own in thedance sequences. However, the film is all but stolen bythat extraordinary jack-of-all-trades, Danny Kaye, whomakes a role originally written for Fred Astaire entirely his own. This was the first film shot in Vista-Vision, andthe sumptuous, widescreen Technicolor images and the elaborate musical numbers demand to be seen on a big screen.

Dir: Michael Curitz USA 1954 / 1h55m / Digital / U



Northern Soul Wed 31 December, 18:00

Fashion photographer Elaine Constantine’s love affairwith Northern Soul has been a constant one. In the past decade she has made three short films about the movement, so it was no surprise that she returned to the era of great records, great outfits and even greaterdancing for her feature film debut.

The story begins in the 1970s when Lancashire lonelyteenager John (played by newcomer Elliot James Langridge) has his life transformed after discovering aworld of all-nighters, amphetamines, baggy trousers and soul records. No longer satisfied with the prospectof life in a small town working in a factory, John and hismate Matt dream of going to America to track down the LPs which will help them become the best DJs on theNorthern Soul scene. The road to success is a rocky oneas the two lads confront rivalry, violence and drug abuse,and their friendship and loyalties are tested to the limit.

With a cast that includes singer Lisa Stansfield as John’s mum, Ricky Tomlinson as his granddad andSteve Coogan (who also produced the film) as histeacher Mr. Banks, Northern Soul is a film that delivers on many levels. Not least with its fabulous soundtrack,selected by Constantine herself who is clearly a devotedfan of Northern Soul.

Dir: Elaine Constantine UK 2014 / 1h42m / Digital / 15

Happy New YearWithnail and I Sat 3 January, 20:30

In the decades since its initial release, Withnail and I hasmade the transition from cult film to bone fide nationalclassic. Indeed, writer-director Bruce Robinson’s semi-autobiographical tale of a pair of struggling actorsliving a life of drug and booze-fuelled squalor in 60s London remains one of the most original and confidentdebuts in British cinema. There is little in the way ofstory, but few films are populated with such memorablydrawn characters (all vividly brought to life by a flawlesscast), and fewer still have managed to strike such a delicate balance between broad humour and melancholic introspection. And let’s not forget Robinson’s endlessly quotable dialogue. This new digital print offers Withnail addicts an opportunity to see the film restored to its full glory and new initiates a chance to find out why one of their friends refers toevery drink as being “far superior to meths”.

Dir: Bruce Robinson UK 1987 / 1h43m / Digital / 15

Holiday Sun 4 January, 15:00

In the late 1930s George Cukor directed two romanticcomedies starring Cary Grant and Katherine Hepburnabout New England’s idle rich that were adapted fromplays by Philip Barry. The second of these, The Philadelphia Story, is now an uncontested classic. The earlier film, Holiday, is rather less well known. However, while it may seem odd to call a Grant/Hepburncomedy a cult movie, there is a small, happy minoritythat consider Holiday to be one of the most sublime Hollywood films ever made. Everything about it, from the Oscar-nominated design, to the performances, toCukor’s direction, is supremely elegant and the dialogueis razor sharp. Alongside the barbed comments and slyinsights, there is also genuine warmth and sadness hereas Hepburn’s heiress comes to realise that money andprivilege do not always equate to personal freedom. This is as close to perfection as it gets.

Dir: George Cukor USA 1938 / 1h33m / Digital / U

Guys and Dolls Sat 3 January, 15:30

Brando sings! Some films simply should not work. PlaceAmerica’s greatest method actor in a film of a Broadwaymusical directed by Joseph L Mankiewicz (All aboutEve), Hollywood’s master of loquacious dialogue, and against all the odds, you get a classic. The first masterstroke was pairing Brando with another seriousactor, the incomparable Jean Simmons. The secondwas Mankiewicz’s decision to give them ample time between the songs to actually act. The third was to have them play opposite two consummate musicalscene-stealers: Frank Sinatra and the wonderful VivianBlaine, who reprised her role from the original show. The combination of styles is brilliantly effective and itclearly caused everyone to up their game. Couple thiswith Michal Kidd’s amazingly energetic choreography,some great songs, and Mankiewicz’s script, which improves on the original and is full of generous chunks ofRunyonese, and you have a spectacle not to be missed.

Dir: Joseph L Mankiewicz USA 1956 / 2h23m / Digital / U



With six performance screenings over December and January, we have a wonderful and festive selection of opera, theatre and ballet for you to enjoy. Book your seat to the best live performances online or at DCA Box Office on 01382 909 900. Advanced booking is highly recommended.

Performance Screenings

Live from the Met: Die Meistersinger Von Nϋrnberg Sat 13 December, 16:55

An epic comedy, Wagner’s magisterial opera celebrates the power of music and art inDie Meistersinger Von Nürnberg.

Bolshoi: The Nutcracker Sun 21 December, 15:00

Delight in a classic, magical Christmas tale – with iconic music from Tchaikovsky – whenall the toys come to life in The Nutcracker.

Girl with a Pearl Earring Tue 13 January, 18:00

Go on a beautiful behind-the-scenes journey which investigates the unanswered questions associated with one of the most enduring paintings in the history of art.

NT Live: Treasure Island Thu 22 January, 19:00

Robert Louis Stevenson’s story of mutiny, murder and money is brought to life on stagein this new adaption of Treasure Island.

Bolshoi: Swan Lake Sun 25 January, 15:00

In what is perhaps the most famous ballet of all time, Odette lives as a swan by day anda human by night as she awaits her curse to be lifted – Swan Lake.

Sold Out:Live from the Met: The Merry Widow Sat 17 January, 17:55

Be the first to hear about our Performance Screenings by joining our Mailing List. Sign up via the ‘Subscribe’ button on our homepage at dca.org.uk

Wed 17 December, 18:30

The DCA film quiz is back! Take a break from the cocktailparties and join us for an evening of teasing, tantalizingand terrific tests to exercise the cornucopia of your movieknowledge.

Featuring a wide variety of films, there’s everything fromShane Black to White Christmas! Think up your bestteam names and bring them with you, there’s prizes to be had as movie masterminds can hear the tinkle of bellsand earn their movie wings.

The quiz is held in the DCA meeting room. Entry is £2 per person.

Dir: DCA Cinema Team Dundee 2014 / 1h30m / Mixed Media / PG

DCA Film Quiz

AccessDCA welcomes everyone and we are committed to making our programme and facilities accessible. We accept the CEA card. Application forms and furtherdetails are available from Box Office as well as large print copies of DCA printmaterial. Guide Dogs are welcome in our cinemas. Details of audio-describedand subtitled screenings are listed in our print and online at our website.

For further information on access please contact us on 01382 909 900.

DCA Cinema is supported by:

DCA follows BBFC recommendations. For further details about film classification or for extended film information, please refer to www.bbfc.co.uk

Bookings:01382 909 900www.dca.org.ukDCA Box Office is open daily from 10:00 until 15 minutes after the start of the final film.

All week£6 before 17:00£7 from 17:00*£1.50 additional fee for all 3D films*Special Prices**SeniorsMon £5 all dayTue – Fri £5 before 17:00

StudentsSun £5 all dayMon – Fri £5 before 17:00

Un-wagedMon £5 all dayMon – Fri £5 before 17:00

Under 15sSun £4.50 all dayMon – Fri £4.50 before 17:00

DisabilityFree carer’s ticket on production of valid CEA card

* There are some pricing exceptions, please see film information for further information**Please bring proof of your status to DCA when purchasing or picking up reduced tickets.

Special Screenings:Senior Citizen Kane ClubA chance for cinema-goers over 60 to gather and enjoy film together – £4.50

Bring a Baby ScreeningsFor those with babies under 12 months old – £4.50

Discovery Family Film Club£4.50 under 21s£5.50 over 21sFamily ticket for four people £15.00

Tickets cannot be exchanged or refunded after purchase except in the case of a cancelled performance.

Ticket offers are subject to availability and may not be used in conjunction with any other offer. All tickets must be paid for at point of booking.

Whilst every effort is taken to ensure the accuracy of information within this guide, mistakes do happen. DCA reserves the right to make changes to the programme as necessary.

DCA reserves the right to refuse admission.

DCA asks all customers to refrain from using mobile phones in the cinema.

Customers are welcome to take their drinks into our Cinemas, but are asked to refrain from goingback to the bar during the screening.

Dundee Contemporary Arts152 NethergateDundee DD1 4DYTel 01382 909 900Email [email protected] www.dca.org.ukRegistered Charity no: SC026631

Testament of Youth: p11

cin - dundee contemporary arts · the hobbit: the battle of the five armies fri 12 –thu 31...

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