Current Release: September 11th, 2007 | Vol. XXIV Iss. 10

Photo by Jason Gibbs

NARO offers students a way to screen off-the-wall-films

By Jason Gibbs

It’s Sunday morning, you are looking for something totally different to do and much like everyone else, you are coming up empty handed for ideas. The NARO Expanded Cinema on Colley Ave. in Ghent has a creative and well thought out plan that can entertain not only you but also anyone who wants the chance to open his or her mind.

In the winter and fall seasons the NARO offers its unique First Look Film Forum. The Forum is a way to involve the community in film, allowing them a chance to screen movies that our area might not normally get a chance to see. The event starts at 10 a.m. Sunday mornings with a light brunch that includes coffee, assorted bagels, popcorn and of course meeting fellow film enthusiasts who have come to watch. The film starts at 10:30 a.m. and then a discussion is held afterward.

All of these activities are included in the ticket price of $15. If a student or adult wants to purchase multiple tickets for an entire season of the Film Forum, they can be purchased for a lesser price since you will participate in all of them.

Virginia Wesleyan College’s very own Dr. Bill Jones, who has participated actively in the culture of the NARO through his passionate discussions and time donated, has helped the First Look Film Forum flourish for the entire five-year run.

“We try to find guest speakers who can relate to the film and the material,” said NARO co-owner Thom Vourlas.

An example of this, he says, is when they screened the film “Adaptation.” They had author Mike Dursio come and speak. Since the film is about the trials and tribulations of a screenwriter, the NARO felt that he was a good fit to speak and answer questions.

The film usually begins with an introduction by the speaker and having heard Dr. Jones give one to an audience about a year ago, I can say it’s definitely worth going whether you are a film buff or not. The films range from political to emotional to even ones a little “out there.” The NARO assures that although Dr. Jones is recovering from his illness, the forum will stay active with other guest introductions.

One of the greatest advantages to the Forum, besides stimulating conversation, is that unique films are given a chance at the NARO. “Paradise Now,” “Transamerica” and “Good Night and Good Luck” are all films that don’t always pull in massive box office fares but do get the chance to enhance local cinema.

The NARO’s First Look Film Forum can offer a little something for everyone to do on those Sunday mornings when you just want to do something a little different. Who knows, you may get something out of it or be able to contribute back to it. Anyone can pop in a DVD at home or go to a Regal or AMC Theatre, but the NARO gives viewers a chance to uniquely interact with the process of watching a movie.

The NARO’s website offers information on show times and also about all of their other activities, so please visit www.narocinema.com.