Friday Night at the Movies becomes Sunday Matinees

Fall is almost here and Friday Night at the Movies is ready to start up once again. Through the end of 2016, our theme will focus on Politics in the Movies, in “honor” of the 2016 presidential election. And by “politics,” we don’t mean to focus entirely on governmental issues. Our first film of the new season, Spotlight, takes us on an entirely different journey involving the politics of the Roman Catholic Church. Spotlight refers to a group of investigative journalists with The Boston Globe who follow up on an allegation of child sexual abuse by area catholic priests. Their shocking findings of abuse, as well as its cover-up by Archbishop Cardinal Bernard Law and others, touches off similar revelations all around the world. Nominated for six academy awards, this true story won Best Picture for 2015. Its excellent cast includes Mark Ruffalo, Michael Keaton, Rachel McAdams and Stanley Tucci.  

Former DGFUMC pastor Fred Conger will present this film and lead a lively discussion afterward. BE SURE TO NOTE THAT THIS MONTH OUR MOVIE IS ON THE FOURTH FRIDAY, rather than the usual third Friday of the month.

Space is limited to 20 people, so sign-up now in the church office, by phone, email or in person.

Our favorite presenter and Movie Night founder, Carol Lysne, will present The Judge, a 2014 dramatic film starring Robert Downey, Jr., Robert Duvall, Billy Bob Thornton, and Vincent D’Onofrio. Chicago lawyer Hank Palmer (Downey), long estranged from his small town Indiana family, returns for his mother’s funeral. Tension remains between he and his father, Judge Joseph Palmer (Duvall), and he vows never to return. Then the judge is indicted for murder following a hit and run accident; Hank decides to stay and defend him. This compelling drama explores multiple themes centered around family relationships; we’re sure to have an excellent post-film discussion. The usual snacks, soft drinks and dessert will be at hand; a $2 donation is suggested. Sign-up now by calling the church office at 630-968-7120.

The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, a 2012 release, will be presented by Andrew and Cindy Johnson. This popular and highly-acclaimed comedy-drama follows a group of retired Brits in search of a nice but not-too-costly rtirement site, which leads them to the lovely aforementioned hotel, located in India. At least the place looks lovely in the pictures!  What our adventurers find is “a little” different, which makes for a great story.  

Following what is sure to be a lively post-film discussion, we’ll enjoy our usual dessert and coffee, and of course we’ll have popcorn and soft drinks during the film  The usual $2 donation is suggested. Call the church office at 630.968.7120 and sign-up now.

Our “regular” December movie, Gideon’s Trumpet, tells the true story of Clarence Earl Gideon. Accused of robbery and forced to represent himself at trial because he does not have the right to a public defender, Gideon seeks to right this wrong from his prison cell. His fight results in a landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision that we take for granted today. 

This 1980 Hallmark Hall of Fame TV movie treats us to stellar performances from some outstanding actors of the past, including Henry Fonda, Jose Ferrer, John Houseman, and Sam Jaffe. Kay Mundy and Owen Bates will lead our discussion, and we’ll have the usual treats.

Take a break from your hectic Christmas preparations and join us! Sign-up now by calling or dropping in at the church office, 630.968.7120.