Framing Pictures for Friday, July 13, 5 p.m. at Northwest Film Forum will likely feature talk about Margaret, the Kenneth Lonergan picture most of the few people who have seen it regard as a masterpiece. Given only limited theatrical release, the film is now out on disk in its theatrical version (two-and-a-half hours) and also an extended cut (three hours). Lonergan stands by both versions ... but can he explain why only the theatrical version is offered in Blu-ray? Talk about perversity.
Also likely to be touched on: Jean Renoir's peerless 1937 classic Grand Illusion, opening a week's run at NWFF this very night; a SIFF showcasing of vintage films as preserved by the Library of Congress (Keaton, Fritz Lang, W.C. Fields); and the dean of American film criticism, Andrew Sarris. Who knows, maybe Kathleen Murphy can be persuaded to say why she's changed her mind about Channing Tatum. Sharing the panel with her will be Richard T. Jameson and Bruce Reid (Robert Horton is away just now).
Attendance is free. You can pay for some beer or wine if you like. 1515 12th Ave, between Pine and Pike.
Yes, that is us in the picture for a change. If you'd like to catch our June 15 session, visit http://www.seattlechannel.org/AnEveningWith/