The Scooter Scoop: THE ASSESSMENT Movie Preview

Admit it, you have had the thought, “There ought to be a test people have to pass in order to have kids.”

Oh, you might not have ever said it, but you thought it once or twice.

Well, The Assessment, which is currently playing at Robinson Film Center, starts with exactly that premise. But the test takes some unexpected twists and turns into a dark evaluation of the human psyche, like a really extreme Kobayashi Maru.

Elizabeth Olsen and Himesh Patel play Mia and Aaryan, a couple who desire to have a child in a population-controlled future. They have applied for a child and now must face the Assessment — a seven-day evaluation of determine whether they will be allowed a child.

Alicia Vikander stars as Virginia, the assessor. She moves magnificently between the wild abandon of a belligerent, spoiled brat and and the guile of a cold psychological terrorist.

Through the course of her assessment, Virgina tests Mia’s and Aaryan’s mental, emotional and psychological aptitude to be parents. She plays on all kinds of parental fears, from tantrums to losing a child to “some assembly required” to the fear of making the same mistakes our parents did.

The conclusion of the assessment sends everyone, including the audience, into a spiraling series of unexpected events. No, I won’t give it away here. You’ve got to see it for yourself.

- Scott “Scooter” Anderson, Scooter Anderson Communications

The Scooter Scoop: ANORA Movie Preview

If you missed the Academy Award winning film Anora the first time around, Robinson Film Center is offering you a second chance.

 Anora is, in essence, a story about how chasing dreams sometimes turns into a nightmare. It’s a roller-coaster ride of fast-paced twists and turns. Throughout the film, the viewer isn’t quite sure where they are going next. And that’s what makes it so impressive.

 The story’s well-executed plot twists don’t follow any formula you have seen before. It’s that kind of innovation that earned the film Best Original Screenplay.

 But their brightest light on the screen is Best Actress winner Mikey Madison as the title character. Anora, or Ani, as she prefers, is making the most of a hard life. And just when she thinks she’s grabbed the brass ring that will lift her out of her situation, she slips into a chaotic fall deeper into her abyss.

 Madison dominates the screen with so much grit and passion that the audience can’t help but weep for her tragic situation and celebrate her catharsis at the end.

 Director Sean Baker set a record at this year’s Academy Awards by winning four Oscars for a single film. In addition to Madison’s Best Actress and Best Original Screenplay, Anora won Best Director, Best Film Editing and the grandest prize of all, Best Picture.

- Scott “Scooter” Anderson, Scooter Anderson Communications

The Scooter Scoop: MICKEY 17 Movie Preview

After some delays on the release date, Mickey17 is out at Robinson Film Center, and it is worth the wait. Mickey17 follows the life of Mickey Barnes, an “expendable” on a journey to colonize the distant planet Niflheim. Mickey takes the job out of desperation to escape the life he’s living on Earth. But he didn’t read all the fine print before signing up.

In the film, technology has advanced to the place where Mickey’s body can be regenerated, or reprinted, when he dies. His memories, personality and other critical data are stored and simply downloaded into each iteration of Mickey. So he is, well, expendable. When one Mickey dies, a new one is printed and picks up where the old one left off.

Mickey17 has something for everyone. It is an action-packed sci-fi political satire with just enough rom-com for some flavor. But at its core, the film is an existential dive into the permanence of death.

You see, Mickey Barnes feels like he has no other choice. He’s running away from something on Earth, and he never considers the ramifications of what he runs to. He’s constantly asked,“What’s it like to die?” But ultimately, he winds up facing his own mortality. He faces the fact that the answer to the question is dying is scary, and he hates it. From there, Mickey begins to pursue a more important question: “What’s it like to really live?”

Mickey 17 is based on the book Mickey7 by Edward Ashton. It stars Robert Pattinson as Mickey, Naomi Ackie as Nasha, Steven Yeun as Timo, Anamaria Vartolomei as Kaiand, and Mark Ruffalo as Kenneth Marshall. It is directed by Bong Joon-ho, who also directed Oscar winning Parasite.

- Scott “Scooter” Anderson, Scooter Anderson Communications

The Scooter Scoop: THE QUIET ONES Movie Preview

Our new movie preview series, The Scooter Scoop, will give you an inside scoop of what to expect from the motion pictures gracing our big screens! Read on to find out what freelance writer Scooter Anderson has to say about the latest movie selection at RFC.

The Quiet Ones, now playing at Robinson Film Center, is based on the the true story of the largest heist in the history of Denmark. Now, I know what you’re thinking. You’re saying to your self, “That’s just a foreign version of Ocean’s Eleven.” Let me stop you right there. The Quiet Ones is no slick con-game film. It is a non-stop, action-packed roller coaster ride and, despite the name, it is loud!

Kasper is a boxer in Denmark, struggling to support his wife and daughter. When the promise of a massive payday presents itself, he joins an international crew to pull off the robbery. The energy is high throughout the film as Kasper and the team plan and execute their scheme. Amid the noise and the frenetic action, Kasper battles his own ego, until the job becomes a personal quest to land a spot in history.

The Danish film is directed by Frederik Louis Hviid, written by Anders Frithiof August, and stars Gustav Dyekjær Giese as Kasper. The pace of the movie will grip you and hold you on the edge of your seat. In fact, if you aren’t intentional, you might not even catch a breath until the closing scene of the movie, when Kasper finally catches his.

- Scott “Scooter” Anderson, Scooter Anderson Communications

RFC TO HOST SCREENING OF THE ROOM WITH STAR GREG SESTERO

Robinson Film Center will host a meet and greet and special screening of the film The Room with a live Q&A featuring star Greg Sestero on August 23rd. The screening, which will be shown under RFC’s Friday Night Freakout banner, will start at 9 pm following the meet and greet at 8 pm.

 “The Room is the very definition of a cult classic” said Wendell Riley, RFC’s Executive Director. “It’s a small film that became a cultural phenomenon and people pack screening houses all over the world to collectively relive the experience of watching it. In its own way it rivals The Rocky Horror Picture Show for its following and the fan participation at screenings.”

 Sestero, who plays Mark in the film, is no stranger to RFC. He will have a table set up in the lobby where he will sell merchandise, sign posters and memorabilia, and interact with the fans. “Greg is very generous in that way,” said Riley. “He takes his time when chatting with fans, making sure that he gives them his full attention.”

 The Room, which was released 20 years ago, was a passion project for Tommy Wiseau, who plays Johnny in the film. Wiseau, an auteur who is as enigmatic onscreen as he is off it, was famously played by James Franco (with Dave Franco playing Sestero) in the acclaimed film about the making of The Room called The Disaster Artist.   

For tickets and sponsorship information about the event, please call (318) 459-4113 or visit https://robinsonfilmcenter.org/#/the-room/

 For media inquiries, please contact Wendell Riley at wendellr@robinsonfilmcenter.org.

Robinson Film Center, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit arts organization based in Shreveport, educates, enriches and entertains through the power of film. RFC exhibits independent, international and classic cinema daily in two movie theaters, with a full-service bistro and special events space upstairs. RFC provides film history and media literacy classes for all ages, focusing strongly on K-12 students and senior citizens. RFC also supports outreach programs that promote and strengthen the state’s film industry. 

ABBY SINGER’S BISTRO ANNOUNCES NEW EXECUTIVE CHEF

Abby Singer’s Bistro, located on the second floor of Robinson Film Center, has announced the arrival of its new Executive Chef, Niema DiGrazia. Chef DiGrazia, who has built a culinary following in the region at her restaurant, Niema’s Cookery Corner, also runs a food truck and has competed in Food Prize’s Golden Fork competition.  

 “Chef [DiGrazia] will bring tremendous creativity and technique to her new role in the Bistro,” said Wendell Riley, Executive Director of Robinson Film Center. “It will make Abby’s more than just a destination for lunch or dinner and a movie. We have aspirations of making it a culinary destination in Shreveport-Bossier.”

 The bistro serves as an economic driver for RFC, and part of the proceeds from bistro sales goes towards RFC’s programming and education initiatives. The success of the bistro is important to the overall economic health of RFC, which is a nonprofit organization. DiGrazia’s team includes the former Chef de Cuisine at Zuzul, Matthew DiGrazia. The self-described “dynamic duo” will not only oversee the bistro operations, but also manage the onsite event catering for RFC’s event space. The leadership team, along with the new bistro team and events team, are already planning more film-related culinary events for the fall.     

 “I am absolutely thrilled to join Robinson Film Center and Abby Singer’s Bistro,” said DiGrazia. “This incredible opportunity fills me with joy as I become part of such a vibrant and creative community. I can't wait to bring fresh ideas to the menu, events, and dining experiences. My passion for culinary arts and event planning drives me to create memorable moments that connect and resonate with our guests.”

 For media inquiries, please contact wendellr@robinsonfilmcenter.org.

For reservations, please call (318) 459-4125 or visit: http://robinsonfilmcenter.org/abby-singers-bistro

Robinson Film Center, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit arts organization based in Shreveport, educates, enriches and entertains through the power of film. RFC exhibits independent, international and classic cinema daily in two movie theaters, with a full-service bistro and special events space upstairs. RFC provides film history and media literacy classes for all ages, focusing strongly on K-12 students and senior citizens. RFC also supports outreach programs that promote and strengthen the state’s film industry.

RFC TO HOST MEET & GREET AND SCREENING OF E.T. THE EXTRA TERRESTRIAL WITH STARS DEE WALLACE AND HENRY THOMAS

Robinson Film Center will host a VIP meet & greet and special screening of the film E.T. The Extra Terrestrial featuring a live Q&A with stars Dee Wallace and Henry Thomas on Thursday, August 15th. The VIP meet & greet will take place on the second floor starting at 5:00pm and the film will begin at 6:30pm in the Willis Knighton theater.

“We’ve been working to put this together for some time, and we are so thrilled about collaborating with our friends at Geek’d Con to make it a reality,” said Wendell Riley, RFC’s Executive Director. “Geek’d Con has become an annual high point for convention fans in the region, and because they bring in so many beloved film guests it made sense for us to work together on this type of event.”

Wallace, who plays Mary, the mother of the kids at the center of the film, is a respected actor with almost 300 credits over the course of her career. Thomas, who played E.T.’s best friend Elliot in the movie, has recently been a frequent collaborator of acclaimed horror director Mike Flanagan. Both will be appearing at the convention, which starts on August 16th.

“For us it’s an opportunity to give fans a chance to interact with these two icons of the genre,” said Riley. “It also gives longtime E.T. lovers the opportunity to hear firsthand insights into the making of the seminal film. That’s what we’re about at RFC- we celebrate films and filmmakers, behind and in front of the camera.” 

For tickets and sponsorship information about the event, please call (318) 459-4113 or visit https://robinsonfilmcenter.org/#/et-dee/  

For media inquiries, please contact Wendell Riley at wendellr@robinsonfilmcenter.org.

Robinson Film Center, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit arts organization based in Shreveport, educates, enriches and entertains through the power of film. RFC exhibits independent, international and classic cinema daily in two movie theaters, with a full-service bistro and special events space upstairs. RFC provides film history and media literacy classes for all ages, focusing strongly on K-12 students and senior citizens. RFC also supports outreach programs that promote and strengthen the state’s film industry.

ROBINSON FILM CENTER TO HOST THE ROBBYS GALA ON JUNE 15TH

Robinson Film Center will host its annual Gala, The Robbys, on June 15th. The event, which is the nonprofit’s major annual fundraiser, will take place at 617 Texas Street, with doors opening at 6:30pm for check in. The festivities will continue through 11pm. The theme for this year’s gala, which will be hosted by local news anchor Biskie Duncan, is ‘Hitchcock’. 

“The power of film is magical. There is a genre that speaks to everyone. Films fill us with all sorts of feelings, including hope, which is deeply needed today. RFC is vital in educating our community about how movie magic can enrich our lives,” said Anna Priestley, the 2024 Robbys Chair. “Keeping the spotlight on RFC is what The Robbys is all about - raising funds to continue our outreach programs that strengthen our local community and support our film industry.”

This year’s event revolves around the fashion and glamour of characters in Alfred Hitchcock films, which are synonymous with striking leading ladies and debonair leading men. The dress code for the Robbys is described as “cocktail or costume”. The night will feature stunning themed décor from famous Hitchcock films, along with a karaoke room, a VIP area, a screening room, a prize pull, DJs, and a live performance by the band Identity Crisis. There will be open bars and food throughout the center.

“As this year’s chair, it has been a privilege to do my part to keep the magic of RFC on the big screen,” said Priestley. “My hope is that attendees are transported to the world of Alfred Hitchcock and are reminded of the inspiration and enchantment of cinema.”

For tickets and sponsorship information about the event, please call (318) 459-4113 or visit https://robinsonfilmcenter.org/#/robbys-2024/

 For media inquiries, please contact Wendell Riley at wendellr@robinsonfilmcenter.org.

Robinson Film Center, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit arts organization based in Shreveport, educates, enriches and entertains through the power of film. RFC exhibits independent, international and classic cinema daily in two movie theaters, with a full-service bistro and special events space upstairs. RFC provides film history and media literacy classes for all ages, focusing strongly on K-12 students and senior citizens. RFC also supports outreach programs that promote and strengthen the state’s film industry.

ROBINSON FILM CENTER’S GIVE FOR GOOD MOVIE CAMPAIGN RETURNS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 1st, 2024

ROBINSON FILM CENTER’S GIVE FOR GOOD MOVIE CAMPAIGN RETURNS

Robinson Film Center is releasing the follow-up to its unique 2023 campaign for this year’s Give for Good day. As a way of saying thank you to supporters, RFC staff along with board members and volunteers will appear in videos reenacting famous movie scenes throughout Give for Good day on May 7th as the center hits specific donation levels. Give For Good day, which is powered by the Community Foundation of North Louisiana, is an important fundraising day for many local nonprofit organizations. 

“We had so much fun making and premiering these videos last year,” said Wendell Riley, Executive Director of RFC. “The community loved it, and ever since we’ve been asked if we would be doing something similar this year. Well, we definitely are.” RFC will have bistro specials all throughout the day.

The community’s donations will not only unlock these reenacted movie scenes, but will help keep the film center’s mission to educate, enrich and entertain through the power of film alive. The videos will be released on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube based on the following fundraising targets:

Pre-GFG Day - $1,500: MOVIE SCENE #1
$5,000:  MOVIE SCENE #2
$10,000: MOVIE SCENE #3
$20,000: MOVIE SCENE #4
$30,000: MOVIE SCENE #5
$40,000: MOVIE SCENE #6

“We’re excited to do this again, because it allows us to express our undying love of cinema while showing gratitude to our supporters,” said Riley. “Give for Good is a big part of our annual fundraising cycle, and this year we hope to use the funds to continue to make some major improvements in the center.” 

The center announced the campaign last week with the following video: 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8mEiMd23j3k&t=1s&ab_channel=robinsonfilmcenter

For more information on the campaign and to donate, visit:
 https://www.giveforgoodnla.org/organization/Rfcmovies

            For media inquiries, please contact Wendell Riley at wendellr@robinsonfilmcenter.org.

RFC TO SHOWCASE LOCAL FEMALE FILMMAKERS WITH THIRD ANNUAL STORYTELLHERS PROGRAM

Robinson Film Center will present the third installment of the popular StoryTellHERS program on April 25th at 7pm. The event, which showcases films by local female filmmakers, is presented under RFC’s Regional Filmmakers Spotlight series.  

This year’s lineup, which was curated by local filmmaker Kristi J. Woodard, includes Spooky Crew by Erin Bennett, Off Sides by Kaitlyn Brown, Daffodils in December by Emma Francis, How Do I Tell You This by Lara Hill, Pink Suit Black Suit by Jaya McSharma, and CANS Can't Stand by Megan Plotka. The 83-minute slate will be followed by a panel discussion and a Q&A with the filmmakers. “I initially wanted to do the series just to showcase and support an often-underappreciated section of our film community -- female filmmakers,” said Woodard. “The past two years, it's not only become a space to showcase those women and their stories, but, as I was told by past participants and patrons, it's become a safe haven where it's not about competition, it's about supporting women and their visual art.”

"We hear the phrase “representation matters” a lot these days, but it’s true. I know when I’m in a room full of other female filmmakers, it fills me with confidence and a desire to create more,” said Rachael Hansil, Education Director at RFC and film producer. “At RFC, we love giving local filmmakers an avenue to screen their work, but the panel discussions are what really make us special and set us apart from other theaters. The StorytellHers event is always packed full of community members ready to engage. That’s when the magic happens.”

Tickets are available at http://robinsonfilmcenter.org/storytellhers. For media inquiries, contact Wendell Riley at wendellr@robinsonfilmcenter.org.

Robinson Film Center, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit arts organization based in Shreveport, educates, enriches, and entertains through the power of film. RFC exhibits independent, international, and classic cinema daily in two movie theaters, with a full-service bistro and special events space upstairs. RFC provides film history and media literacy classes for all ages, focusing strongly on K-12 students and senior citizens. RFC also supports outreach programs that promote and strengthen the state’s film industry.

RFC TO HOST SCREENING OF ‘ASSEMBLY REQUIRED’ FEATURING WILLIAM JOYCE

Robinson Film Center will host a screening of the award-winning documentary Assembly Required on March 21st at 7pm in the Willis Knighton Theater.  

The short documentary, featuring interviews with creatives such as Shreveport’s William Joyce (writer/illustrator), Nelson Coates (production designer), Leah Rama (fashion designer), and Ken Kocienda (Apple hardware designer), and executives such as Ed Catmull (Pixar), Shona Brown (Google), and Gina Rudan (X), explores the particular challenges of building and leading creative teams in the 21st century workforce. The screening will also feature a panel discussion and Q&A with filmmaker Matt Maxwell, directors Kyle Dickson & Mike Wiggins, and community activist Allison Richardson. Jeffrey Goodman will serve as the moderator.

"This is going to be a special screening for us as it is geared toward current and future local business leaders,” said Wendell Riley, Executive Director of Robinson Film Center. “As the opportunities and challenges of the 21st century economy continue to evolve, it’s important for us to take time to examine what effective leadership and team building look like, particularly from firsthand accounts of those at the top of their fields.” 

Tickets are available at https://robinsonfilmcenter.org/#/assembly-required/. For media inquiries, contact Wendell Riley at wendellr@robinsonfilmcenter.org.

Robinson Film Center, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit arts organization based in Shreveport, educates, enriches, and entertains through the power of film. RFC exhibits independent, international, and classic cinema daily in two movie theaters, with a full-service bistro and special events space upstairs. RFC provides film history and media literacy classes for all ages, focusing strongly on K-12 students and senior citizens. RFC also supports outreach programs that promote and strengthen the state’s film industry.

RFC ANNOUNCES PROGRAMMING CELEBRATING WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

Robinson Film Center has announced a full slate of programming to celebrate Women’s History Month. RFC will premiere several films focused on women and women’s issues, as well as its inaugural Women in the Reel World round table discussion.  

The month kicks off with Nyad, the true story of athlete Diana Nyad who, at the age of 60, commits to achieving her life-long dream: a 110-mile open ocean swim from Cuba to Florida. Annette Benning and Jodie Foster both earned Oscar nominations for their performances in this film. On March 8th, RFC will premiere The Taste of Things, the critically acclaimed romance starring Juliette Binoche. On March 9th, RFC will also host a screening of Fitting In, which follows a 16-year-old who is unexpectedly diagnosed with a reproductive condition, MRKH syndrome. The diagnosis upends her presumptions about womanhood and sexuality, her relationship with her mother, and most importantly, herself. Other films on the slate include Cabrini and Love Lies Bleeding.

"We are extremely excited about what we have programmed for this month, and we think these films will showcase multiple dimensions of womanhood,” said Rachael Hansil, Education Director of Robinson Film Center. “In addition to the films, we will be hosting the Women in the Reel World symposium on March 9th at 10:30 am, which includes breakfast and a discussion on the roles of women in film, on the screen and off.” The morning will feature a talk with Atlanta based filmmaker and actress Meosha Bean followed by a roundtable discussion with Meosha, actress and musician Jennifer Carsillo, and representatives from Centenary Film Society, which is sponsoring the event.

For showtimes and tickets visit www.robinsonfilmcenter.org. For media inquiries, contact Wendell Riley at wendellr@robinsonfilmcenter.org.

Robinson Film Center, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit arts organization based in Shreveport, educates, enriches, and entertains through the power of film. RFC exhibits independent, international, and classic cinema daily in two movie theaters, with a full-service bistro and special events space upstairs. RFC provides film history and media literacy classes for all ages, focusing strongly on K-12 students and senior citizens. RFC also supports outreach programs that promote and strengthen the state’s film industry.

RFC TO HOST INAUGURAL BLACK FILMMAKER SHOWCASE WITH CINENOIR

Robinson Film Center, in partnership with Mahogani Media, proudly presents the 2024 CineNoir: Black Voices in Film series, Presented by The Centenary Film Society. The series, which will run from February 23rd to the 29th, will showcase and celebrate the rich and diverse tapestry of Black culture through film during Black History Month. The weeklong event will feature a curated selection of locally and regionally made independent features, documentaries, and short films, along with studio released features. Screenings will include intros, panel discussions, and Q&As.

“I am so excited to be partnering with Robinson Film Center to showcase Black voices in the art of filmmaking. Though film is a global medium, we wanted to focus on the artists in our own community, and there’s no place better to spotlight regional filmmakers and Black cinema than our one and only indie film center,” said Kristi Woodard, Owner and Operator of Mahogani Media. “We are thrilled to be partnering together to shine a spotlight on Black voices in film across the African diaspora, including those from our own backyard.”

The lineup includes local award-winning short films such as Shreveport Son and Rising Dawn, as well as feature films such as Bamboozled, The Forty-Year-Old Version, and Glory, with discussions surrounding the cultural importance of these stories.

"We’re honored to bring this series to RFC,” said Wendell Riley, Executive Director of Robinson Film Center. “We have so many amazing Black filmmakers in our community, and this is an opportunity for us to let them show these projects in their hometown, some for the first time.”  RFC plans to make CineNoir an annual series, as community support has been overwhelmingly positive. Sponsorship opportunities are still available, and tickets are on sale now at https://robinsonfilmcenter.org/#/cinenoir/.

For media or sponsorship opportunities, contact Wendell Riley at wendellr@robinsonfilmcenter.org.

Robinson Film Center, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit arts organization based in Shreveport, educates, enriches and entertains through the power of film. RFC exhibits independent, international and classic cinema daily in two movie theaters, with a full-service bistro and special events space upstairs. RFC provides film history and media literacy classes for all ages, focusing strongly on K-12 students and senior citizens. RFC also supports outreach programs that promote and strengthen the state’s film industry.

PACE announces Closet2Pride premiere March 2 at RFC

Closet2Pride reception & documentary premieres March 2nd at Robinson Film Center!

Shreveport, LA – February 5, 2024

PACE’s OUTnorthLa is delighted to announce a special premiere that will show halfway to our next film festival!  Closet2Pride: A Memoir of Shreveport, a documentary about the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals in Shreveport, LA, will premiere at the Robinson Film Center in downtown Shreveport on Saturday, March 2, 2024.  A reception will precede the premiere with a Q&A with the filmmakers Robert Darrow and David Hylan afterwards.

Closet2Pride provides a historical background to the struggles and successes of the LGBTQ+ community, featuring heartfelt interviews, archival footage, and personal stories. The film examines the difficulties of coming out and living openly and authentically in a conservative and religious environment, and the discrimination, violence, and social stigma this community faces. It also celebrates the ways in which the LGBTQ+ community has united to fight for their rights, from earlier activists to present-day movements.  It is a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for acceptance and equality. The film celebrates the strength and courage of the LGBTQ+ community and highlights the challenges they still face.

PACE will host a reception before the film’s showing at the Robinson Film Center at 6 pm, Saturday, March 2nd, followed by the film premiere at 7:30 pm.  The reception will feature the filmmakers, heavy hors d’oeuvres, and a cash bar; tickets for the reception ($10) can be purchased at the OUTnorthLa Film Festival website.  Tickets for the film can be purchased through the Robinson Film Center website or box office.  All tickets will go on sale February 21st.  We expect tickets to go fast as many local residents of northwest Louisiana are interviewed in the documentary.

Filmmakers Robert Darrow and David Hylan have both been very active in Northwest Louisiana for many years in various capacities.  Both have doctoral degrees from LSU-Shreveport, both have been longtime LGBTQ+ activists, both have experience with documentary filmmaking, and both have led non-profit organizations in Shreveport. They are widely known and beloved throughout our region.

Robert Darrow, retiring this spring as the longtime Managing and Artistic Director of the Shreveport Little Theatre, has been active in the theatre community for 54 years.  In 1990, he helped establish The Philadelphia Center, northwest Louisiana’s HIV resource center. Darrow, along with Sherry Kerr, was the filmmaker on Shreveport Little Theatre: Maker of Dreamswhich premiered on Louisiana Public Broadcasting in 2023.

David Hylan recently retired as the longtime Executive Director of the Betty and Leonard Phillips Deaf Action Center in Shreveport, and is enjoying life in Cozumel with his husband Troy.  Hylan was a founding member of PACE, and along with Raydra Hall, was the filmmaker of Small Town Rage: Fighting Back in the Deep South which premiered at PACE’s 2016 film festival and which won the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities Documentary Film of the Year award. 

All tickets for the reception and showing of Closet2Pride go on sale February 21st!  Also mark your calendars for PACE’s 2024 OUTnorthLa Film Festival at the Robinson Film Center which will open the Friday after Labor Day, September 6, 2024.

For more information about PACE, “People Acting for Change and Equality”, Northwest Louisiana’s leading advocacy organization for the LGBTQ+ community, go to www.pacelouisiana.org or find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/pacelouisiana.

Contact Info

Wendell Riley, Executive Director, Robinson Film Center
wendellr@robinsonfilmcenter.org

Robert Darrow
rkdarrow58@gmail.com

David Hylan
davidhylanjr@gmail.com

Submitted by 
Adrienne Critcher
critcher@earthlink.net 

RFC TO HOST SCREENING OF THE COLOR PURPLE WITH KEY HAIRSTYLIST ANDREA BOWMAN

Robinson Film Center will host a special screening of The Color Purple on January 11th at 7pm with an intro and Q&A by Andrea “Mona” Bowman, a Shreveport native and Key Hairstylist on the film.

Bowman, who grew up in the Mooretown area, graduated from Fair Park High School and attended Wiley College in Marshall Texas. Her film credits include The Great Debaters, Emancipation, Pitch Perfect 3, and True Detective Season 3 among many others. She is a two-time Guild Nominated Hairstylist, an Emmy Nominated Hairstylist, and has an Oscar Shortlist and BAFTAS Longlist to her name. “We are so excited to have Ms. Bowman at a screening of The Color Purple as her work on the film is absolutely beautiful, and we share the same vision of exposing people to different facets of filmmaking,” said Wendell Riley, RFC’s Executive Director. “I would strongly encourage anyone interested in doing hair and makeup on a film set to attend, along with those who just want to get more behind the scenes insight on the film.”

Tickets are on sale at https://robinsonfilmcenter.org/#/tcp-discussion/ or by calling the box office at (318) 459-4122.

 For media inquiries, please contact Wendell Riley at wendellr@robinsonfilmcenter.org.

Robinson Film Center, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit arts organization based in Shreveport, educates, enriches and entertains through the power of film. RFC exhibits independent, international and classic cinema daily in two movie theaters, with a full-service bistro and special events space upstairs. RFC provides film history and media literacy classes for all ages, focusing strongly on K-12 students and senior citizens. RFC also supports outreach programs that promote and strengthen the state’s film industry.

RFC BEGINS RENOVATION OF ABBY SINGER’S BISTRO

Robinson Film Center began renovating its restaurant, Abby Singer’s Bistro, on January 2nd, 2024. The project is scheduled to run for several weeks, with a planned reopening in February. While the restaurant is undergoing its renovation, the bistro will still provide its regular lunch and dinner service, along with takeout options in its Event Space on the second floor of RFC.

The renovation, which will include updated lighting, furniture, painting, and décor, will give the restaurant its first full facelift since it opened fifteen years ago. “We are very excited about this project. We have been planning it for quite some time, and we could not have begun this work without the generous support of many local organizations,” said Wendell Riley, RFC’s Executive Director. “The Downtown Development Authority, The Beaird Family Foundation, Mike McSwain Architect, Fusiform Design Workshop, our board, and our generous supporters during Give for Good all made this possible.”

RFC is working with several local contractors to complete the work and will announce a grand reopening in the coming weeks. Updates will be provided on the Abby Singer’s and Robinson Film Center Facebook and Instagram pages, as well as www.robinsonfilmcenter.org.

For media inquiries, please contact Wendell Riley at wendellr@robinsonfilmcenter.org.

 Robinson Film Center, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit arts organization based in Shreveport, educates, enriches and entertains through the power of film. RFC exhibits independent, international and classic cinema daily in two movie theaters, with a full-service bistro and special events space upstairs. RFC provides film history and media literacy classes for all ages, focusing strongly on K-12 students and senior citizens. RFC also supports outreach programs that promote and strengthen the state’s film industry.

ROBINSON FILM CENTER ADDS OPEN CAPTION FILM SHOWINGS FOR HEARING IMPAIRED PATRONS

Robinson Film Center will add select open caption screenings to some of its film runs, beginning this weekend. Open captions will assist hearing impaired patrons fully experience these films by providing written dialogue and scene descriptors onscreen.

Films with captions will be indicated on the RFC website and at the box office, and will begin with screenings of Blackberry and Asteroid City. “At RFC we serve a wide range of patrons, and we try as much as possible to be aware of and accommodate their needs” said Wendell Riley, Executive Director of RFC. “A number of our long-term supporters have expressed the need for captions, particularly within our senior community.”

As the center pilots this program it will add captions to a few screenings a week, if they are available from the studios. “As we roll this out, we need be mindful of accommodating those in need while not alienating members of the audience who would rather not watch a film with captions,” said Riley. “As a community hub, we need to find the right balance for our patron group. We will assess audience reactions in the coming months and adjust as needed.”  

For media inquiries, please contact Wendell Riley at wendellr@robinsonfilmcenter.org.

 Robinson Film Center, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit arts organization based in Shreveport, educates, enriches and entertains through the power of film. RFC exhibits independent, international and classic cinema daily in two movie theaters, with a full-service bistro and special events space upstairs. RFC provides film history and media literacy classes for all ages, focusing strongly on K-12 students and senior citizens. RFC also supports outreach programs that promote and strengthen the state’s film industry.

ROBINSON FILM CENTER BRINGS BACK FAITH ON FILM SERIES WITH ‘FIREPROOF’

Robinson Film Center is bringing back its Faith on Film series with the modern Christian hit film Fireproof, starring Kirk Cameron and Erin Bethea. The screening, which will be held on March 25th at noon, will feature a special recorded introduction by Bethea, and a live introduction by local actor Ted Ferguson.

“In addition to showing first-run films at RFC, we have many successful series and event screenings under banners such as Silver Screenings, Heels & Reels, and Friday Night Freak-out,” said Wendell Riley, Executive Director of RFC. “Faith on Film is a series that we’ve had in the past, and we are testing the waters with Fireproof, with the goal of bringing the series back every month.”

The series was originally conceived as a way to bring together area clergy members from different religions and denominations to have a conversation about film through the lens of their faiths. The new version of Faith on Film will seek to do the same, by showcasing films that highlight different belief systems and explorations of spirituality.  

For media inquiries, please contact Wendell Riley at wendellr@robinsonfilmcenter.org.

Robinson Film Center, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit arts organization based in Shreveport, educates, enriches and entertains through the power of film. RFC exhibits independent, international and classic cinema daily in two movie theaters, with a full-service bistro and special events space upstairs. RFC provides film history and media literacy classes for all ages, focusing strongly on K-12 students and senior citizens. RFC also supports outreach programs that promote and strengthen the state’s film industry.

RFC TO HOST BLACK HISTORY MONTH SCREENING OF OSCAR NOMINATED DOCUMENTARY ‘TIME’ AS PART OF 3 CITY LOUISIANA TOUR

Robinson Film Center will host a screening of the 2021 Oscar-nominated documentary ‘Time’, featuring a live Q&A and book signing with the subjects of the film, Fox and Rob Richardson on February 12th at 1pm, as part of its Black History Month programming. The Shreveport screening will be part of a 3 city Louisiana tour for the couple, who are also releasing a book this month through the Baker Publishing Group.   

Media Release from the St. Charles Center for Faith Plus Action: 

Time: Families, Faith, and Fairness in Sentencing

The St. Charles Center for Faith Plus Action and Foundation for Louisiana are excited to announce its sponsorship of a 3-city tour of Time, an Academy Award nominated full-length documentary, tells the story of Fox and Rob Rich’s relentless fight for each other and justice, despite America’s broken prison system.  As Rob survived two decades at America’s bloodiest penitentiary and Fox raised their sons solo, they never stopped fighting for Rob’s freedom and for their futures against the statistical odds.  This program comes in anticipation of the release of Time 2023, the literary companion to the film.

Despite its worldwide acclaim and due to COVID, Time has never premiered in Louisiana.  Through this thoughtfully designed 3-city tour, the viewing of the film will be combined with a panel discussion and Q & A with the film’s subjects and authors of Time 2023.  Fox and Rob Rich will take participants into a deeper discussion of how faith, strength and community organizing not only brought Rob home, but has served to free countless others.  And their fight continues.

This work will be held as part of the community engagement, narrative change, activation, and education of participants in the Center's programming to mobilize people of faith/conscience to come alongside the work of those most impacted by harms of the criminal legal system and builds necessary allyship to expand community working to address the harms of the criminal legal system.

The film showings begin in New Orleans, February 7, 2023, Shreveport on February 12, and followed by Baton Rouge on February 28.  The significance of these cities goes beyond the geographic coverage of the state by beginning at the entry point for slavery in Louisiana – and the country – of New Orleans and ending in Shreveport, the last stand of the Confederacy in the Civil War.  Baton Rouge provides a focus on the heart of legislative power for the state.

This partnership integrates into The Center’s arts-as education-and-activation programming. Louisiana is the epicenter for mass incarceration. The mass incarceration system financially and socially destabilizes many families of color and reduces economic means with multi-generational effects. Amplifying the voices and experiences of people directly impacted by the system - most of whom are black, brown, and poor - through productions like Time fuels the fire for change, bridging a gap between experience and understanding.

Participants who attend experience a transition from separateness to solidarity, enabling them to engage in collective action. Communities of faith and conscience are in a particularly strong position to help change the moral framework through which our citizens and communities view incarceration. The deepening of community working to be restorative problem solvers means a thriving New Orleans for all who live here.

Time amplifies the multitude of problems undergirding the criminal legal system, the sentencing laws, and harms within carceral institutions while highlighting the strength of black families through this powerful story of fortitude, faith and love.

 Mission Statement of The St. Charles Center for Faith Plus Action

Focusing on racial justice and systemic issues within the criminal legal system, The St. Charles Center for Faith + Action ("The Center") builds a broader, more diverse community of people working actively to make a just and equitable New Orleans - and beyond. We tap the wellspring of energy of people of faith/conscience through immersive art events focused on the realities of the criminal legal system, retreats, seminars, and opportunities for spiritual growth.

With a grassroots community campaign focused on people of faith and people of conscious, we bring people together for experiences that drive them to amplify their engagement in building a stronger, more thriving New Orleans, through restorative justice lens to address the harms of the criminal legal system. Working at the intersection of sacred story and social justice action, The Center convenes faith leaders, community members, and experts to foster action and partnerships based on shared understandings and experiences leading to personal growth, public advocacy, and service to the community.

Co-sponsors include:

· Foundation for Louisiana

· The St. Charles Center for Faith + Action

· The Contemporary Arts Center

· Robinson Film Center

· Advancement Project 

· Watson Memorial Teaching Ministries

· Equal Justice USA 

· Baker Publishing

· National Council of Incarcerated and Formerly Incarcerated Women

For media inquiries, please contact Caroline Durham at (504) 729-8189 or CDurham@StCharlesAve.Center

Robinson Film Center, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit arts organization based in Shreveport, educates, enriches and entertains through the power of film. RFC exhibits independent, international and classic cinema daily in two movie theaters, with a full-service bistro and special events space upstairs. RFC provides film history and media literacy classes for all ages, focusing strongly on K-12 students and senior citizens. RFC also supports outreach programs that promote and strengthen the state’s film industry.

2022 RFC Staff Picks

This awards season, RFC has put together a list of their own favorite movies of 2022. We hope this can give you some movie inspiration as we gear up for the Oscars!

Note from Wendell Riley: I don’t get hung up on “Best of” lists because so much of it is subjective. The enjoyment of a film, beyond its technical merits, can boil down to a number of factors such as personal bias, the viewer’s mood at the time (of viewing and writing), viewing format, environment etc. That being said, here are some of our favorite films of 2022:

Wendell Riley’s Picks:

RFC Executive Director

Everything Everywhere All At Once - I apologize (a little) to those who’ve had to listen to me rave about this film. I absolutely love it, but I know it’s not for everyone. The easiest way to describe it without spoiling anything is that it’s a film that pretentious film school students will be waxing poetic about for decades to come. Many will copy elements from it, and few will succeed in doing it this well.

The Banshees of Inisherin - The ultimate guy breakup movie. It’s heartbreaking, hilarious, profound, and really dark. The performances are amazing, the visuals are sublime, but the standout for me is Barry Keoghan as Dominic.

X and Pearl - This is a dual entry, as Pearl was a surprise sequel to X. Both are fantastic films made on modest budgets but fueled by some great performances, particularly by Mia Goth. The final shot of Pearl is haunting and tragic, and while Goth won’t get much recognition outside of the horror community, her performances show a fantastic range of talent.

Top Gun: Maverick - Top Gun: Maverick is proof that a blockbuster can have heart and a brain, even if said brain switches off from time to time for some amazing adrenaline-fueled action. The cinematography in this film is top-notch, and it’s a fun, nostalgic ride from start to finish.

Till - This was a tough watch for me, but it earns a spot on my list for its importance. This is a story that has not been told nearly enough, and I will echo Mamie Till’s sentiment that people need to see it if we ever have a shot at healing and not letting history repeat itself. 

Honorable mentions: The Menu, Tár, Deadstream, The Batman, You Have No Idea

Alexis Salinas’s Picks

RFC Box Office Manager

Everything Everywhere All at Once - This film is as stunning as it is action-packed, funny, touching, and creative. Michelle Yeoh is at the top of her game with her performance and her chemistry with Ke Huy Quan is off the charts. I expect this to be on “must-watch” lists for many years to come.

Top Gun: Maverick - Going into this film, I was certain that it would be just a cash-grab riding on the coattails of nostalgia. Instead, it was everything that a sequel should be, bringing life to a familiar story by honoring the original and continuing the characters’ journeys in a believable way. Also… what’s not to love about big planes going fast?

Turning Red - As a girl who grew up in the early 2000s, a time ruled by friendship bracelets, boy bands, and Tamagotchis, this movie struck all of the right chords for me. I think everyone can relate to that time in their life when they were an awkward pre-teen and mortified by absolutely anything their family does.

Marcel the Shell with Shoes On - Everyone needs Marcel in their life. His humor, wisdom, and charm are so captivating. It’s impossible not to fall in love with him and cheer this little stop-motion shell on.

The Banshees of Inisherin - I have a deep love for live performance and this just felt so much like a straight play in the best way possible. The beauty of the Irish countryside and the cinematography pushed it over the top to create a gorgeous experience.

The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent - Such an absurd, over the top film in the best way. After leaving the theater, I immediately called my friends to set up a watch party so they could enjoy it, too. If you’re looking for an easy watch with a lot of comedy, this is the one.

Madison Kane’s Picks

RFC Marketing Coordinator

Marcel the Shell with Shoes On - Marcel is the most adorable shell you might ever have the pleasure of meeting. As a fan of the OG YouTube video in my younger years, this one has a special place in my heart. Seeing Marcel bond with his Grandma Connie and search for his lost family brought my love for this little guy to a new level.

White Noise - I’m always amazed by the stories that Noah Baumbach manages to create and capture. This film has so many aspects to it, I couldn’t take my eyes away and still haven’t stopped thinking about it. Not to mention, the cast is great and the supermarket closing scene is everything.

Everything Everywhere All at Once – One of the most creative films I have ever experienced. The Daniels have a wild imagination and everything in the film is beautiful. I could watch this one over and over again!

The Menu – Clever, shocking, and captivating with some dark comedy and a surprise dessert at the end. What more could you ask for in a thriller?

Brian and Charles - The quirky and unique relationship between Brian and his homemade robot friend, Charles, is more heartwarming than you would think. It may not be for everyone, but I really enjoyed this fun watch.

Rachael Hansil’s Picks

RFC Education Director

Amsterdam – Not what I was expecting, but it was a good time. And based on a true events, which I didn’t know going into it. It’s a little off-beat, and Christian Bale is just fantastic, as always.

She Said – I’m a sucker for journalism films, especially female led ones. It’s in the same vein as All the President’s Men, but gets more personal in the lives of its lead characters. It’s an important topic and worth a watch.

Glass Onion – Listen, I know people had issues with this one, but I enjoyed it. It’s fun, easy to watch, and has some surprising cameos. And seriously, you can tell Daniel Craig is just having a good time. Give it a go. 

Persuasion – This is on my list because I watched it more than once. A rarity for me. I’m an Austen fan, and this was a fun take on Persuasion, which isn’t my favorite of her novels. It didn’t take itself too seriously, and neither did I. Enjoyed it a lot. 

Death on the Nile –  Make a star studded who-done-it, and I’m all in. I really enjoyed Kenneth Branagh’s Poirot in Murder on the Orient Express, so this was a no brainer for me. It’s exactly what you think it is set in the backdrop of Egypt. An easy weekend watch.