Sometimes a movie screens for one night only, and sometimes it'll show for weeks -- months even. That's why when it comes to catching an independent or limited-release film at a local theater, planning ahead is crucial.
Planners that we are, we've selected five must-see flicks screening in the Valley this month. Stock up on your preferred salty, sweet snacks and check out our picks ...
5. Almost Famous Film Festival
Regional filmmakers competed in the 48-Hour Film Challenge last weekend, during which teams had to create a short movie (one to five minutes in length) that included a theme of lost love, a character setting a clock, and an utterance of the phrase, "This could get complicated." Judges selected their 20 favorite quick flicks from the competition, and those will screen at AMC Arizona Center 24 tonight at 7 p.m. Tickets are $8. See more here.
4. Friends with Kids
With a stellar ensemble, including Jon Hamm, Maya Rudolph, Adam Scott, Kristen Wiig, Chris O'Dowd and Jennifer Westfeldt (who wrote and directed the film), Friends With Kids addresses the turning point in life when settling down not only becomes inevitable -- but everyone around seems to relish (or, at least, inadvertently step into) the major life change that is baby-making.
Friends with Kids opens March 9.
3. Linotype: The Film
This documentary explores the history (and dying art) of the antiquated printing machine the linotype, which, alongside the letterpress, fell out of favor in the printing world during the 1970s. Whether to continue using and preserving the technology or let it go the way of the Palm Pilot -- remember those? -- is the film's burning question.
See it at ASU Tempe's Neeb Hall Thursday, March 8, at 8 p.m.
General admission is $12 in advance and $15 at the door. See more here.
2. Louis Sullivan: The Struggle for American Architecture
Chicagoan architect Louis Sullivan made a name for himself as an uncompromising force in the world of innovative design during the late 1800s. Counting Frank Lloyd Wright among his protege's and considered the father of the skyscraper, Sullivan's career was marked with massive success and a descent into ruin. This documentary looks at his rise, fall, and impact.
No Festival Required presents the free screening at 7 p.m. Thursday, March 15, at the Walker Building.
1. Phoenix Film Festival
The on-screen selections for the 12th Annual Phoenix Film Festival range add up to nearly 200 shorts, animated flicks, and full-length features. Between the movies, the parties, and the exposure to up-and-coming filmmakers, it definitely merits a mark on your calendar.
The fest reels in on March 29 at Harkins Scottsdale 101 and continues through April 5. Individual screening passes are $12. See more here.
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