Instead of the conventional format, this month’s recommendations look a little different to include the numerous new releases that are coming out in December just in times for the awards season. The five best films to look into include: 1) “Black Swan” (Dec. 1, limited release) 2) “The Fighter” (Dec. 10, limited release) 3) ”Casino Jack” (Dec. 17, limited release) 4)  “How Do You Know” (Dec. 17) 5)  “Somewhere” (Dec. 22) All five shine as award contenders. Oscar winner James… Read more

With just six posters left to go, the new installation of film posters that reside in front of Armer Theater and in the corridors of Manzanita Hall is near completion. The posters comprise film favorites such as “Singing in the Rain” and legendary Charlie Chaplin’s “The Thief Catcher.” These posters were donated by collector Steve Olson and are currently on loan to the university, said John Schultheiss, a professor in the CTVA department who also serves as the option head… Read more

Starting this month through June 2011, Community Cinema, The Grand Vision Foundation and the PBS series Independent Lens will host award-winning documentary screenings at the Warner Grand for free. The film selections, one screening each month, address current cultural and social issues. After each hour-long screening, there will be a panel discussion, an on-stage interview or another exercise to engage discussion on the issue the film focused on that evening. Community Cinema is a public education effort that stretches to… Read more

11/5/2010 “127 Hours” (Limited Release) In recent years, Fox has delivered many Academy Award–winning films. “Slumdog Millionaire” captured eight Oscars including Best Picture, Best Director (Danny Boyle) and Best Adapted Screenplay (Simon Beaufoy). Boyle and Beaufoy have re-teamed to create a compelling, captivating and inspiring film based on the true story of mountain climber Aron Ralston’s struggle to survive during his 127 hours trapped under a boulder in an isolated Utah canyon. Don’t be surprised if James Franco garners acclamation… Read more

Consumers envision movies, music and money when they hear the term “entertainment.” That’s why it’s called “show business,” though it’s not always adequate, admirable or appropriate. The recent recession has proven that entertainment endures, but the public hasn’t substantially supported the business. Billy Dickson, a 21-year-old CSUN alumnus, owns and operates a photography studio, “Just Shoot Me Photography,” in Moorpark and, in his spare time, works on movies. Dickson has done it all: gripping, director of photography, camera operator and… Read more

The American Film Institute (AFI) Film Festival, presented by Audi, is repeating its free pass giveaway for the second consecutive year so fans can enjoy movie entertainment without worrying about cost. After last year’s successful launch, AFI decided to continue its novel trend of offering free tickets. In its 24th year, the American Film Institute’s successful program, AFI Fest, explores entertaining and engaging films with a fun, festive atmosphere in the heart of Hollywood. AFI Fest will take place in… Read more

Ben Affleck again authenticates his appeal to filmgoers with “The Town,” his directorial follow up to his debut film “Gone Baby Gone.” Redefining his movie career has progressed him from a washed-up, has-been actor to an award-worthy director. For most of the millennium, Affleck has been the butt of countless jokes. From SNL and South Park to umpteen blogs, Affleck has been mocked, mimicked and ridiculed endlessly. He  has even lampooned his career by appearing as “himself” in close friend… Read more

October looks like a major month to be reintroduced to sequels, classics and new cult films. It’s time to catch up on your favorite summer films and discover some new ones. 10/5/2010 “Beauty and the Beast” Suggested Retail: $29.99 two-disc DVD / $39.99 Blu-ray One of Disney’s most celebrated animated films reappears on DVD since its original release in 2002. This Academy Award nominee for Best Picture of 1991 is being re-released on DVD in a two-disc standard edition and… Read more

Summertime has evaporated and most blockbusters have been unveiled, but several solid films will be released in September. 9/1/2010 The American George Clooney is Jack, an assassin, who decides to execute one last assignment after a horribly gone wrong mission in Sweden.  In Italy, Jack hides away in a small town, but his final assignment is not what it appears.  The movie resembles a European film furnished with an American star, so the average George Clooney fan probably will not… Read more