Barney’s Version is Shared

The Forwardian Arts Society hosted its monthly Film Lovers’ Gathering at The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse in Stroudsburg, PA on Friday July 15th. An impressive number of film lovers gathered to share the experience of watching the film and engaging in a conversation afterwards. The featured film for the evening was “Barney's Version” which is based on the novel written by Mordecai Richler. The film was directed by Richard J. Lewis and starred Paul Giamatti. The film was nominated for the Golden Lion at the 67th Venice International Film Festival in 2010.

As mentioned earlier, the film is based on the novel written by Mordecai Richler which relays the story of Barney Panofsky as an autobiography. It tells of his life through his own words until his death after suffering from Alzheimer's Disease. It is at this point his son edit’s the narrative and complete the “autobiography.” The novel relays Barney’s life through the varying mental states he experiences and may not reflect the reality of his actual life. But, whether they do or don’t is of little significance as the stories shared throughout to book are Barney’s version of events as the title suggests.

Although the novel is clearly meant to be presented as an “Autobiographical” piece, the film version isn’t so clear in this respect. It’s presented from multiple points of view and the audience witnesses events not experienced by the Barney Panofsky character. This is not to say “Barney’s Version” isn’t a good film. On the contrary, it’s very well made and acted deserving all the critical praise and nominations it has and may yet receive. It’s just interesting to note the variations between the novel and the film which is quite common in cinema. You’ll find more photographs taken during the gathering in The Forwardian Arts Society 2011 Gallery at www.facebook.com/forwardian.dude.

The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse offers a variety of coffee, drinks, and culinary treats along with events such as the one described in this article. The next Film Lovers Gathering held at The Cheeky Monkey is scheduled for Friday August 19th. Future events will include a Closing Reception designed to Celebrate the work of Laura Bee on Wednesday August 31st beginning at 6pm. The Exhibition continues until September 1st. This will be followed by an Artist’s Reception on Friday September 2nd featuring the work of Kim Pollard beginning at 6pm as part of their Espresso Yourself Art Shows Series. This Exhibition continues until November 1st. Ongoing events at The Cheeky Monkey include their Tuesday evening Open Mic Nites and their “Spoken Word Symposium” on Thursday evenings. Please Explore The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse Website at www.cheekymonkeycoffee.com or call 570-420-8222 for more information.

The Forwardian Arts Society is a fellowship for people who love the arts seeking to enhance the creative community by encouraging those interested in the arts to go forward toward their dreams, by supporting those groups and individuals who are manifesting their dreams through performances and/or presentations, and by loving them and all they do. In addition to their annual Forwardian Film Festival, the Film Lovers’ Gatherings, and their literary and arts magazine titled, “Forwardian.” The Forwardian Arts Society also presents a series of “ArtSmash of the Poconos” festivals showcasing the creativity of all visual and performing artists throughout the creative community. These festivals are presented at various times and locations throughout the Summer. The Forwardian Arts Society also offers information and news relating to the arts through its website. Please Explore The Forwardian Arts Society Website at www.theforwardianartssociety.com to learn more information about all they have to offer the creative community.

Film Lovers in the Attic

“…mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed.” Thomas Jefferson, The Declaration of Independence.

The Forwardian Arts Society held their Film Lovers’ Gathering to watch and chat about the 1987 horror film titled, “Flowers in the Attic” on Friday June 24th at The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse in Stroudsburg, PA. A small crowd gathered to watch what has become a film classic in spite of the poor reviews it received when it was first released. Many of these reviews were based upon the subject matter of the film and it’s many departures from the original novel.

“Flowers in the Attic” was written by Virginia Andrews and became the first book in what became known as “the Dollanganger Series.” The series continued with novels titled, “Petals on the Wind,” “If There Be Thorns,” “Seeds of Yesterday,” and “Garden of Shadows.” The film version of the first novel starred Louise Fletcher, Victoria Tennant, Kristy Swanson, and Jeb Stuart Adams. It was directed by Jeffrey Bloom although Wes Craven (who later became a horror icon with his making of “Nightmare on Elm Street”) was the original choice. However, his screenplay disturbed the producers because of its approach to the incest-laden story.

The film and novel is about four children and their mother who are forced to live with the family’s matriarch when their father’s sudden death leaves them penniless. We learn the matriarch is a religious fanatic and takes them in with the condition the children be locked in a room so her husband will never know of their existence. The children are then kept prisoner in their bedroom which leads to the home’s attic. Their mother leaves them and later returns to show them the wounds she received from her mother when she was horsewhipped as a punishment for her incestuous relationship. It is then the children (and we) discover their mother and father were related as uncle and niece.

The film continues through the depictions of the ordeal the children go through with their abusive grand mother and attempts to escape which all fail. They soon decide to find a way to adapt to their situation which is encouraged by their mother during her infrequent visits. As the film progress, the children begin to connive their way to gain greater access to the house. They discover the reason why they were becoming ill from the food they were given and that their mother was about to marry. The three surviving children decides to make a break for it on the day of the wedding when security would be a bit more lax. They confront their mother who denies their existence and a struggle ensues leaving the mother dead. The film ends with the children leaving with a voice over explaining they eventually managed on their own and revealed thoughts of eventual returning to claim the family's fortune.

During the discussion after the film, there were many who speculated on the inheritance aspects of the film while I could not help think about the many ways the mythical and all seeing “I” would have endeavored to successfully escape the children‘s imprisonment. “There would have been a few dead bodies.” I self assuredly told myself but then I soon realized how easy it was to devise such definitive actions when one isn’t immersed in the dynamic of the situation. I began to think of all the points in my life that has been so overwhelming I could not see anything above my problems and didn’t have another perspective available to me in order to plot a course out.

This lack of a way out eventfully leads one to find ways to make the situation bearable as demonstrated throughout the film. My thoughts of how useless their approach was when their time would be better spent devising a better plan to escape. These thoughts later seemed hollowed out when I realized how I have tried to live with a unacceptable situation just because it was easier to do so.

The inspiration to try one more time to escape from their grand mother’s house came when one of the younger of the children died and it was discovered he was poisoned. This made the remaining siblings realize they shared a similar fate and they had nothing to lose as the worse fate to befall them on their attempt would be the same if they remained where they were. Upon my reflections, I began to wonder what motivated me to leave the situations I’ve found myself in. Some were very drastic while some weren’t. And, there are still some I haven’t completely left behind as I sometime wonder what it would be like if I would ever returned.

The Gathering concluded with the sharing of suggestions of what film will be shown during our next Film Lovers’ Gathering scheduled for Friday July 15th at The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse beginning at 7pm. All film lovers are welcomed to attend this free event. You’ll find more photographs taken during the gathering in The Forwardian Arts Society 2011 Gallery at www.facebook.com/forwardian.dude.

The next event held at The Cheeky Monkey will be a Closing Reception designed to Celebrate the work of David Ohkerling on Wednesday June 29th beginning at 6pm. This will be followed by an Artist’s Reception on Friday July 1st featuring the work of Laura Bee beginning at 6pm as part of their Espresso Yourself Art Shows Series. The Exhibition continues until September 1st. The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse offers a variety of coffee, drinks, and culinary treats along with events such as the one described in this article. Please Explore The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse Website at www.cheekymonkeycoffee.com or call 570-420-8222 for more information.

The Forwardian Arts Society is a fellowship for people who love the arts seeking to enhance the creative community by encouraging those interested in the arts to go forward toward their dreams, by supporting those groups and individuals who are manifesting their dreams through performances and/or presentations, and by loving them and all they do. In addition to their annual Forwardian Film Festival, the Film Lovers’ Gatherings, and their literary and arts magazine titled, “Forwardian.” The Forwardian Arts Society also presents a series of “ArtSmash of the Poconos” festivals showcasing the creativity of all visual and performing artists throughout the creative community. These festivals are presented at various times and locations throughout the Summer. The Forwardian Arts Society also offers information and news relating to the arts through its website. Please Explore The Forwardian Arts Society Website at www.theforwardianartssociety.com to learn more information about all they have to offer the creative community.

Films Fit for a Forwardian

On a seasonally warm Spring day, The Forwardian Arts Society held their 1st Annual Forwardian Film Festival at The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse in Stroudsburg, PA on Friday April 15th.. The event featured five short films showcasing the talents of local filmmakers and actors and was greeted by a vast number of film lovers who came to enjoy the works and the meaningful conversations they would inspire. The evening would end with a deeper appreciation of the skills and techniques a filmmaker must employ to manifest their cinematic dreams.

After a few welcoming remarks, the festival began with a screening of “Misty Mountain” which is a science fiction piece from Denmark dealing with time travel. It starred local actor Bob Walz who was present during the festival. The film had the ability to draw many who experienced into the world it created which moved from the past to the present in unique ways. The enjoyment of this film was enhanced by the insights of its creation provided by Bob himself.

The second film was titled, “The Lottery” which was based on a short story written by Shirley Jackson. It was published in “The New Yorker” magazine in 1948 and received a very negative response due to its controversial themes. This response was so profound, readers canceled their subscription and the story was banned in the Union of South Africa. Since then, it has been accepted as a classic short story while being taught in schools as an example of what a short story is capable of accomplishing in the literary world. Again, Bob Walz, who appeared in the film, lent some insights to how the film was made.

The third film was titled, “lucky” and was filmed as a theatrically staged drama featuring three characters who were a little bit on the criminally shady side. This character driven piece captivated the audience with its dialogue and it’s filming techniques. Again, Bob Walz, who appeared in the film, lent some insights to how the film was made.

The forth film was titled, “Battle of the Bedpan.” As its title suggests, this was a comedy about an elderly man who wages a battle with his home care nurse. This leads to some very funny antics inspiring some light hearted chuckles from the audience. Again, Bob Walz, who appeared in the film, lent some insights to how the film was made.

The film was followed by a brief intermission which allowed the audience to partake of the many delicious beverages The Cheeky Monkey has to offer while commenting on the sinfully satisfying cookies the establishment offered as a complimentary treat to be enjoyed while watching the films. The Cheeky Monkey also provided an opportunity for the participants to support the publication of The Forwardian Arts Society’s Literary and Arts Magazine titled, “Forwardian” though a raffle with prizes donated by the establishment. This proved to be a very joyous and unexpected addition to the festival as those in attendance gleefully took advantage of the opportunity.

The final film shown during the festival as titled, “Spill” and starred Joseph Paul Carnevale who appears at The Cheeky Monkey during its monthly Comedy Night featuring the Off Track Players. The film was a comedy about a janitor who learns of an art competition and decides to participate when he also learns there is no experience necessary. The film reveals he not only is lacking any artistic experience but he is also lacking the tools and equipment he needs to create his work of art. This leads to an amusing process as he endeavors to manifest his masterpiece using the objects that are readily available to him. Other than the music on it’s sound track, the film was presented in silence. Many have commented on how this aspect of the film communicated its ideas more effectively than if there were any spoken words employed. Luckily, Joseph was present during the festival to share his experiences with the audience.

The screenings was followed by a discussion in which conversations led to friendships and a deeper love for the art of film. The winners of the raffle were also selected and the prizes were awarded. The festival ended with many words of appreciation and news of The Forwardian Arts Society’s upcoming monthly Film Lovers Gatherings. The next one is scheduled for Friday May 20th at 7pm and all film lovers are welcomed to attend this free event. The film shown will be selected from those suggested by the festival’s attendees and will be announced at a later date. You’ll find more photographs taken during The First Forwardian Film Festival in The Forwardian Arts Society 2011 Gallery at www.facebook.com/forwardian.dude.

The next event held at The Cheeky Monkey will be an Artist’s Reception featuring the work of David Ohkerling held on Friday May 6th beginning at 6pm. This Exhibition will continue until June 30th. Other future events at The Cheeky Monkey include their Open Mic Night taking place every Tuesday evening, The “Just Say It: A Spoken Word Symposium” events taking place every Thursday evening, their comedy night featuring the Off Track Players on Friday May 27th, and The Urban Mountain Voices’ Youth Open Mic Night on Saturday May 20th. The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse offers a variety of coffee, drinks, and culinary treats along with events such as the one described in this article. Please Explore The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse Website at www.cheekymonkeycoffee.com or call 570-420-8222 for more information.

The Forwardian Arts Society is a fellowship for people who love the arts seeking to enhance the creative community by encouraging those interested in the arts to go forward toward their dreams, by supporting those groups and individuals who are manifesting their dreams through performances and/or presentations, and by loving them and all they do. In addition to their annual Forwardian Film Festival, the Film Lovers’ Gatherings, and their literary and arts magazine titled, “Forwardian” mentioned earlier, The Forwardian Arts Society presents a series of “ArtSmash of the Poconos” festivals showcasing the creativity of all visual and performing artists throughout the creative community. These festivals are presented at various times and locations throughout the Summer. The Forwardian Arts Society also offers information and news relating to the arts through its website. Please Explore The Forwardian Arts Society Website at www.theforwardianartssociety.com to learn more information about all they have to offer the creative community.

An Incubus Grows In Stroudsburg

The Forwardian Arts Society held their final Film Lovers’ Gathering for 2010 at The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse in Stroudsburg, PA on Friday November 19th. The event included a free screening of the film, “Incubus” (aka Inkubo). Although the attendance was very low, the gathering was an enjoyable experience.

“Incubus” (aka Inkubo) was made in 1965 and was shown in subtitles with it’s dialogue spoken in Esperanto which was created in 1887 by Dr. Ludovic Lazarus Zamenhof who was a Russian-Jewish ophthalmologist. The language was constructed in order to foster harmony between people from different countries. This didn’t quite happen, but some primary schools teach it as preparation for learning other foreign languages.

The film was directed by Leslie Stevens who created The Outer Limits television series in 1963 and starred William Shatner shortly before he began working on the Star Trek Series in 1966. The film’s premiere took place at the San Francisco Film Festival in 1966 because many of the attendees were prone watching films with subtitles. However, several Esperanto enthusiasts "screamed and laughed" at the actors' poor pronunciation of the language and the filmmakers were unable to find distribution for the film except in France. The film was considered lost in a fire until a very deteriorated version was found and restored in 2001. Due to numerous hardships visited upon many members of the cast, the film was considered cursed.

These hardships include the actor who played the Incubus killing his girlfriend, Barbara Ann Thomason Rooney (the estranged fifth wife of Mickey Rooney) and himself in 1966, an actress committing suicide less than a year after the film wrapped, the daughter of another actress was kidnapped and murdered, and the director’s production company (Daystar Productions) went bankrupt. Even the success William Shatner found through his portrayal of Captain Kirk left him typecast to the character leaving his subsequent career somewhat lacking. The one notable exception to the curse would be of film’s cinematographer Conrad Hall whose work on the films “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid,” “American Beauty,” and “Road to Perdition” won him Academy Awards.

The film is about a solder (played by William Shatner) who returns from war as a wounded hero. He and his sister comes to the village of Nomen Tuum which has a well that can heal the sick. The well also has cosmetic effects which can make people more beautiful. This quality of the well attracts many vain individuals and this attracts some succubi (agents of the God of Darkness) who lead them to their deaths in order to send their souls to Hell. All is working well for the succubi until one becomes ambitious and tires of easy prey.

She yearn for the desire to turn a pure soul over to their master and embarks upon doing so with the William Shatner Character in spite of warnings of her sister succubi. Her insistence leads her to the cottage the soldier and his sister lives and, after a cordial get together during a solar eclipse, she lures him away to tempt him from his purity while his sister goes blind while watching the celestial event through her naked eyes. It is during her temptations, the vain succubus becomes overwhelmed by her prey’s innocence and falls in love with him.

This is seen as a spiritual violation by the succubus and her sister tantamount to rape. The sisters summon their brother (The Incubus) from the depths of Hell to help them exact their revenge. They do so by luring the soldier’s sister into their unholy dwelling in which the Incubus rapes her in a Satanic wedding ritual. The violated succubus then embarks on exacting her revenge directly upon the soldier by creating the stage for him to discover his sister’s rape and killing her brother (The Incubus) thus tarnishing his soul with the sin of murder making it easier to send him to Hell.

This goes as planed until the soldier (dieing from his wounds gained in battle with the Incubus) become so filled with remorse for his deed that he devotes his soul to God in order to become redeemed and falls to the floor of a church he enters. Although she is unable to enter the church. The soldier’s actions lead the succubus to fall in love with him again. Her brother (The Incubus) turns into a goat and attacks her. She survives by proclaiming her soul now belongs to God and the film ends with her crawling into the church to grasps the soldier’s hand.

As mentioned earlier, the gathering wasn’t well attended, but the film was an enjoyable one to watch. It was fun to watch William Shatner speak in Esperanto which made one wonder if everything he does would be better with subtitles. As also eluded to earlier, film’s cinematography was beautifully shot which allowed it to transcend the qualities of the script and acting which were sometime lacking. It was pleasantly surprising how well the film looked while remembering all the physical damage it received prior to its restoration.

The Forwardian Arts Society is a fellowship for people who love the arts seeking to enhance the creative community by encouraging those interested in the arts to go forward toward their dreams, by supporting those groups and individuals who are manifesting their dreams through performances and/or presentations, and by loving them and all they do. Please Explore The Forwardian Arts Society Website at www.theforwardianartssociety.com for more information about the fellowship and all it has to offer.

The Next Film Lovers’ Gathering of The Forwardian Arts Society will take place in April 2011 when our active season for gatherings and other events resume. It is hoped we’ll begin our season with some original worked created by some local filmmakers. More details about this and how filmmakers can participate will be shared later.

In addition to The Forwardian Arts Society Gatherings, The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse offers a variety of coffee, drinks, and culinary treats along with other events for the public to enjoy. These include their exhibition being shown until December 12th to benefit the "Thrive to Survive" Foundation in their research for cancer cures and treatments, a Comedy Night scheduled for Friday December 3rd beginning at 7pm and their “Just Say It: A Spoken Word Symposium” events which take place every Thursday evening at 7pm. Please Explore The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse Website at www.cheekymonkeycoffee.com or Call 570-420-8222 for more information.

Zardoz at The Monkey

The Forwardian Arts Society held their monthly Film Lovers’ Gathering on Friday October 1st to see the 1974 film “Zardoz.” The gathering was a new experience as it was the first to meet at their new venue at The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse in Stroudsburg, PA. The screening and the subsequent conversation about the film that followed was enhanced by the comfortable atmosphere of this new venue.

“Zardoz” is a personal favorite of mine and that is why I chose it for the first film to be shown in our new venue. In 1974, my father signed up for a new service for our television set that recently began broadcasting. It was called, “Home Box Office (HBO)” and it featured first run film uncut and unedited. The first film I saw was “Zardoz” and, as a 14 year old boy, I became entranced by the amount of nudity it presented. Even though this fascination with the female form stabilized after first hand experiences of it, the film still held my interests through its deeper philosophical implications on social and spiritual issues.

The film is about two societies existing in the year 2293. One is referred to “The Brutals” who are mortal and live their lives throughout a post apocalyptic world and “The Eternals” who are immortal and live their carefree lives in great elegance inside their dwelling called “The Vortex.” One of the eternals create a god named “Zardoz” who breeds some of the Brutals to exterminate other Brutals. One of these exterminators named “Zed” (portrayed by Sean Connery) penetrates the Vortex and brings a much yearned for end to the eternals’ immortality.

The conversation following the screening explored many aspects of the film. While some remarked on the beauty of it’s imagery, others speculated on what types of hallucinogens the film maker was on during its creation. There were also some discussion on the religious and social overtones of the film as well.

Such discussion noted in a world filled with death a savior coming into it may promise eternal life but a world in which there is already eternal life a savior may offer death for its redemption. Thus the former helps the world by encouraging its inhabitants to focus on things beyond their present reality (ie “Be in the world but not of it”) while the later brings more meaning to the life we live by placing a time limit on what we do. In other words, we should do what is good for ourselves and others and tell those we love that we love them now because there may be no later.

The Forwardian Arts Society is a fellowship for people who love the arts seeking to enhance the creative community by encouraging those interested in the arts to go forward toward their dreams, by supporting those groups and individuals who are manifesting their dreams through performances and/or presentations, and by loving them and all they do. Their next Film Lovers Gathering is scheduled to take place on Friday November 5th at 7pm at The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse in Stroudsburg, PA. The film shown will be one selected by ballot and its screening is free to the public. Please feel free to contact The Forwardian Arts Society to learn how you can participate4 in the selection process.

The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse offers a free crepe with the purchase of a beverage to attendees while they’re watching the film. Also, those who wish to enjoy a small meal and fellowship prior to the screening are welcomed to come around 6pm to do so. There are many culinary treats on their menu available for purchase. Please Explore The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse Website at www.cheekymonkeycoffee.com or call 570-420-8222 for more information.

There are several gatherings dedicated to other aspects of the arts The Forwardian Arts Society holds at The Cheeky Monkey. They include a Visual Arts Lovers Gathering on Sunday October 3rd at 3pm, a Performing Arts Gathering on Thursday October 7th at 6pm, a Music Lovers‘ Gathering on Thursday October 14th at 6pm, and a Literary Lovers‘ Gathering on Thursday October 21st at 6pm. You’ll find more photographs during the screening and conversation at The Forwardian Arts Society Film and Chat Gatherings 2010 Gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts. Information about The Forwardian Arts Society and all it has to offer may be gained by exploring their Website at www.theforwardianartssociety.com or by calling 570-269-3348.

Beastly Dreams at The Sherman

The Sherman Theater in Stroudsburg, PA presented another installment in their Severed Sinema Series hosted by Earl Kess on Thursday September 23rd titled, “Never Sleep Again.” The films featured were “Nightmares in a Damaged Brain” (aka Nightmare and Blood Splash) and “A Nightmare in Elm St.” A display of the gloves the later film’s character Fred (aka Freddie) Kruger wore was provided by the series special guest Anders Eriksen. The Blues/Punk band “Beasts of Traal” performed between the films.

The evening began with the screening of the 1981 film directed by Romano Scavolini titled, “Nightmares in a Damaged Brain” (aka Nightmare and Blood Splash). To say this was a cheesy film would cause many such films to take issue in being placed in the same category. It was a mess. But, this is exactly why it was so much fun to watch.

It’s about a man named George Tatum who is seriously warped and potentially homicidal. Due to some early release program which is never quite explained he is left wandering the streets. The medication he was given so he could be discharged from the institution he was in aren’t working and he winds up killing a few people. This is until he arrives at a family’s home and is killed by one of the kids. I suppose family life does have a tendency of doing that.

The narrative style of the film was quite something to experience. It seemed much of film was edited together in the order the scenes were shot leaving it with little cohesive continuality. Many of the actresses who appeared in the film to be killed had very little to do with the overall plot. It seemed they were there to replace others because they couldn’t get off work that day. In other words, a lot of what went on in the film didn’t make sense. Still. Like I mentioned earlier, it was fun to watch.

Once the film was completed those who attended the screening were able to venture out into The Theater’s Lobby to visit Anders Eriksen and his “Nightmare Gloves.” Many had fun trying them on and striking poses for their friends’ camera phones. They were a very impressive collection with each containing a certain artistic quality. It was all very cool.

It was during this time “Beasts of Traal” took the stage and several of those in the Lobby returned to the auditorium. Although the band only consisted of Will Sovinski on Guitar and Corry Scott on Drums, the sound they made gave the impression there were more musicians on stage. And when I say sound, I don’t mean the noise. Their songs had a subtle quality to them which the musicians maintained even while honoring the hard presentation Punk Rock has become known for. This may have been because of the introduction of the musical styling found in the Blues genre which is a very unique element to find in a Punk Rock Band. It all led to an interesting and enjoyable performance.

The second film which was the original 1984 “A Nightmare on Elm Street” directed and written by horror film icon Wes Craven featuring Robert Englund as “Freddy” Krugar and Johnny Depp in his feature film debut began soon after “Beasts of Traal” left the stage. The lasting influences of this classic horror film can be seen in the genre of works being presented up to and including the present day. Wes Craven utilized all the bells and whistles in the spooky movie handbook while inventing some of his own. It won critical acclaim at the time of its release for its originality and filmmaking qualities and is still looked upon with horrified fondness.

When I first saw it during its theatrical release, I found most horror films laughable at best. But, “A Nightmare on Elm Street” was the first film that truly scared me since I was seven. The subsequent sequels, television series, crossover with the inferior “Friday the 13th”, and the remake I don’t really want to see has profoundly diluted much of the “Holy Sh**” quality of the film for me. So, it was with great pleasure the opportunity to see the original film in a theater setting as it allowed me to forget about all that came afterwards and enjoy it as if seeing it for the very first time.

For those of you who don’t know, a child killer named “Freddie Krueger” invades the dreams of the children of those who killed him a number of years prior. In their dreams, he hunts them down and kills them. They never wake up as their deaths become reality in very gruesome manners. One of his potential victims devise a plan on destroying Freddie and succeeds in doing so but not without allowing the groundwork for a sequel to be developed. But, in spite of this contrived ending, the film holds much of the horrifying qualities that made it so scary in 1984 and I found myself going through some contortions at certain scenes. You’ll find more photographs of the event in The Forwardian Arts Society Severed Sinema 2010 Gallery at www,myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

In a special collaboration between The Sherman Theatre and The Pocono Community Theater in East Stroudsburg, PA a special Severed Sinema Series will be presented Sunday Evenings at 7pm beginning October 3rd with the film titled, “Burial Ground.” All the films will be shown in their 35mm format and will continue until Sunday October 31st with the screening of the film, “Zombie.” The next screening in the series to be seen at The Sherman Theater will be their “Halloween Hell Night” event on Friday October 29th beginning at 7pm featuring the films, “The Omen,” “House by the Cemetery,” and a late night screening of “Black Ribbon” featuring a visit by its director John Orrichio. The evening will also feature art by Primo Cardinalli and music by “Methodical.” Please Contact The Sherman Theatre at 570-420-2808 or Explore their Website at www.shermantheatre.com and/or Contact The Pocono Community Theater at 570-421-3456 or Explore their Website at www.poconocommunitytheater.org for more information.

An Inceptional Film for an August Gathering

Inception: Originated in 15th century Middle English as incepcion from Latin inception-, inceptio, from incipere to begin, from in- plus capere to take. Definition: an act, process, or instance of beginning (Commencement). Synonym - origin.

The Forwardian Arts Society held its monthly Film Lovers’ (aka Film and Chat) Gathering at The Pocono Community Theater in East Stroudsburg, PA on Friday August 6th to share the viewing of the film “Inception” and to chat about it in the theater’s café afterwards. A small number of film lovers attended the event which made the conversation more intimate providing everyone an opportunity to share their thoughts on the film in a very relaxed atmosphere.

The film, “Inception” was written, produced, and directed by Christopher Nolan and featured performances by Leonardo DiCaprio, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Ellen Page, Tom Hardy, Marion Cotillard, Ken Watanabe and Cillian Murphy. The film is said to be a variant on the heist genre in which the thieves enters the dreams of their targets in order to extract information allowing them access to the object or information they desire.

Before watching the film, I read one review that said “Inception” was a typical Summer Blockbuster that was atypical in that it worked on an intellectual level as well. After seeing the film, I can say this observation was exactly on the mark. It had all the action one would expect from a “Summer Blockbuster” which made it exciting to watch but it also had a depth to it that made it very intere4sting to reflect upon afterwards. This aspect of the film was quite evident during the discussion following its screening among those who attended the gathering.

Although I found the action of the film quite exciting, there were some who felt violence was a distraction taking away the film’s potential as an exploration into the world of dreams. The film presented a number of body guards and hit men sporting an array of guns and other munitions. They were said to be projections of the thieves’ quarry’s subconscious. One participant noted the projections of her subconscious aren’t hit men carrying guns. “They are family members with much more devastating weapons at their disposal.”

While watching the film, I could not help but to compare it to the “Matrix” films especially as one of the characters (played by Michael Caine) was referred to as an Architect which was the originator of the program in which the human denizens of Earth was incepted with so their dreams would be made real for them. I began to imagine “Inception” could serve as a prequel to the “Matrix” films exploring where the technology came from. Of course, this may just be my imagination going beyond the filmmaker’s vision but this is exactly what a good film inspires its audience to do.

Another point made during the gathering’s discussion was the dreams in film were too linier. It was felt a more pronounced usage of dream logic would have made the film even more interesting. I agree but I also understand why the producers opted to focus on the action aspects and downplay the metaphysical elements of the film. Money.

The film might have received even more critical praise, inspire more reflective conversation, and influence more film makers if it explores the very nature of dreams more fully. However, it would not be as commercially successful as it currently is. At least, this is what the perception of many studios and producers have. So, the film can be considered a compromise in this respect. But, it still is a very good film.

“Inception” is rated PG-13 and is being shown at The Pocono Community Theater in East Stroudsburg, PA. The Theater presents independent and foreign films not commonly shown in larger theater complexes. Most films run one week but some films may be held over for an additional week or two depending on ticket sales. The Theater also presents film and non film related events serving the cultural needs of the community including two Artists’ Receptions taking place on Saturday August 14th beginning at 1pm titled, "Torn and Frayed" and "Color My World". The Exhibitions continue until September 26th. Please Explore The Pocono Community Theater Website at www.poconocommunitytheater.org or call 570-421-3456 for more information about their films, the exhibitions, and all they have to offer.

Our next Film Lovers’ (aka Film and Chat) Gathering will be Friday September 3rd beginning around 4pm which will include sharing in a viewing of a selected film followed by a discussion afterwards in the theater’s café. A free beverage will be provided to those wishing to participate in the discussion. All film lovers are welcomed to join us to watch a film and participate in an enjoyable conversation. You’ll find more photographs taken during the discussion of the film “Inception” on Friday August 6th in The Forwardian Arts Society Film and Chat Gathering 2010 Gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

The Forwardian Arts Society is a fellowship for people who love the arts seeking to enhance the creative community by encouraging those interested in the arts to go forward toward their dreams, by supporting those groups and individuals who are manifesting their dreams through performances and/or presentations, and by loving them and all they do. Beside our Film Lovers’ Gathering, other future gatherings of The Forwardian Arts Society will take place at The Cheeky Monkey Coffeehouse in Stroudsburg, PA and include a Music Lovers’ Gathering on Thursday August 19th at 6pm, a Literary Lovers’ Gathering on Thursday August 26th at 6pm, and a Visual Arts Lovers Gathering on Sunday September 5th at 3pm. There is also a Photography Lovers Gathering on Saturday September 4th taking place during Stroudfest 2010. Please Explore The Forwardian Arts Society Website at www.theforwardianartssociety.com or call 570-269-3348 for more information about the fellowship and all it has to offer.

Bullying Explored at PCT

The Pocono Community Theater in East Stroudsburg, PA Hosted The Youth Infusion, Inc presentation of a Documentary film titled, “BeNoBull” on Thursday May 20th. The evening included some Public Service Announcements (PSAs) dealing with Animal Abuse and Environmental Issues Students from The East Stroudsburg High School-South (ESHS-S) created along with some Spoken Word Performances by the local youth poets of Urban Mountain Voices (UMV). There were also works of art relating to the Bullying Issue created by the school’s Art Club mentored by Michael Jones.

Music presented by ESHS-S student DJ Patrick St. Richard greeted those who entered the theater as they took their seats. After some introductory welcomes, the PSAs were shown. Those students who were involved with “Animal Abuse Initiative” included Almadina Adzemovic, Samantha Barron, Christine Bleskachek, Richard Calvert, Tarryn Campbell, Allison Cramer, Lillian Davoli, Emily Diaz, Lauren DiFilippo, Tyler Hartle, Devyn Nicole Kolcun, David Xavier Lee Ping, Joseph Daniel Losgar, Allison Patricia March, Brianna Leigh Nadrowski, Alexis Martha Poster, Christopher James Proctor, Kelsey Rosario, Courtney Lynne Rode, Amber Scocozza, Alexis Soard, River Thompson, and Maryann Wagner. Those students participating in the Green Team who made the environmental PSAs include Ashley Aponte, Edward Attilano, Chelsey Bengtsson, Kaytie Donnely, Ryan Justin Dekmar, Desiree Feminella, Elizabeth Jan Frey, Matthew Samantha Illingworth, Rosalyn Libran, Jeremiah Mangandog, Bret Jacob Miller, Brianna Nicole Miller, Lauren Mae Moore, Shawn Saunders, Guy Swiney II, Infinity Tirado, Kiera Wade, Hannah G. Werner, and Laquan M. Williams. Considering the age range (15 to 17 year old) of the students who created the PSAs, they were well made. The only glitches were that some of them ended abruptly which included times when someone was on film speaking and haven‘t finished his or her sentence.

A Spoken Word (aka Poetry) performance was given by Urban Mountain Voices (UMV) who was introduced by it‘s founder Tricia McGarvin-Fernandez. As usual, their participation enhanced the topic of any event they’re a part of by providing it relevancy and a sense of urgency. Their deep and soulful truths goes beyond the scholastic perceptions of the issue and brings them to the reality those who are victimized face every single day. One never fails to be touched by their words and hearing them from poets Blake, Bekah, and a duo performance by Carl and Nessa was no exception although their presentations were exceptional.

The performance was followed by some reflective remarks given by the Students who made the Documentary titled, “BeNoBull.” They included Michael Colao, Patrick Monahan, Ashlee DeJesus, Skylar Ogden, Evan Willey, Shanna O’Connor, Marianne Novak, KJ Wilson, Shayna Smith, Sara Tait, Jamey Dumeus, and Jordan Rodriguez. A screening of the film followed which dealt with all types of what can now be classified as “Bullying.” Sexual, GLBT (Gay, Lesbian, Bi-Sexual, Transgender), Physical, Verbal, Racial, and Cyber Bullying. The film was made with the help of Pocono Community Access Television (PCA TV).

The approach of the Documentary Film to the topic was to explore it in a straight forward question and answer format. This involves interviewing someone with some knowledge and/or experience with the topic and putting the conversation on film. This is a good format for High School Students to learn about the art of documentary filmmaking, but it has its limitations. The primary one being is dependence on the answers one receives and the way (or lack of one) the subject enhances the audience interest in the topic so they would want to learn more about it. A more interesting approach would be to follow someone who is presently being bullied so the audience can experience it first hand.

After an intermission, a panel discussion in which the audience was invited to participate took place. It included Donna L. Hamilton, M. D. of Manifest Excellence, Brooke K. Langan of the East Stroudsburg Area School District, Rocco T. Seiler of the Pleasant Valley School District, Criminal Justice Consultant, Motivational Speaker, and Author of “Gangs ‘R’ Real” Michael Leonard, Sr., Steven Burgoon from Pocono Community Access Television (PCA TV), and others. The discussion mostly underlined various aspects of the film until the issue of parental moderating of their children’s internet activity. You’ll find more photographs in The Forwardian Arts Society Pocono Community Theater 2010 Gallery at www.mysapce.com/forwardian_arts.

This perspective came from one member of the panel and was quickly reproached by many of the students and other panel members (although their reproach was much more subtle) as it dealt with privacy issues among the students. Although many of the panel agreed parents should be able to see if there are instances of “Cyber Bulling” effecting their child by seeing the content firsthand, many agreed there should be a relationship of trust established between both parent and child beforehand. After all, (and this is from my personal perspective) some parents would use the information they find to abuse and manipulate their children if complete access to their internet conversations were gained. In other words, their children’s private thoughts and conversations would be used against them in very unhealthy ways.

Now, for some personal perspectives I have on the topic. Throughout my years in Elementary and Secondary (High) School years, I’ve been bullied a great deal. I was very over weight and became the bunt of jokes and ridicule along with being physically harassed by my class mates. This was a trying time for me as everyday was like a Hell on Earth. I dreaded going to school and I never have a time when I look back on those years with the fore longing I’ve heard many enjoy. I didn’t like being a kid and I have no fond memories of it.

However, although I’m glad schools have adopted “No Bullying” policies and have taken a more proactive approach in order to protect their students, I’m left wondering what this all really means. It seem this is some sort of scholastic trend created to generate good feelings for the educational system among the tax paying parents who send their children to school.

There has always been bullying ever since the first schools were built and it’s most likely there always will be whenever we place a variety of children together. Actually, bullying doesn’t’ even require a variety of children as siblings often engage in the activity as well. Now, bullying has evolved to encompass every social inconvenient there is ranging from the very serious forms of sexual harassment and physical abuse to taunts from insensitive peers who learned such attitudes from their parents. And, here is where a larger issue such a trendy approach makes the issue lacking.

“Bullying” doesn’t come from a vacuum. It is often taught from the home as parents continue the generational prejudices, attitudes, and violent methods of the past as their familiar mindsets confronts the real world with its modern and enlightened perspectives. This condition is prevalent in our society and cannot be effectively dealt with through a few after school programs or films made in a controlled scholastic environment void of controversial material so they will be found acceptable to a school board and parents.

“Bullying” never became an important issue in the school systems until The Columbine High School massacre which occurred on Tuesday April 20th, 1999. Two High School Seniors named Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold spent the day killing 12 students and one teacher along with injuring 21 other students directly and three people were injured while attempting to escape before committing suicide. It was shown the two were bullied leading them to severe mental anguish which they chose to alleviate by killing their tormentors and all who stood by to watch. Anti-Bullying programs were later put into place not to protect students from being bullied but to protect students, faculty, and staff from those seeking revenge. In other words, the bullies and their accessories ran for codified cover.

This by no means suggests this trend in curbing “bullying” is a sham. But, until it is explored more in depth than it presently is, it will always continue to destroy children even unto their adult years. We must look deeply into our society and how it accepts violent solutions such as war and WWF Matches to many of its problems. In doing so, we must look into ourselves and that is a very scary prospect for most of us. And, while films like those made by the Students of East Stroudsburg High School-South was a small step in this direction, it was a step nevertheless.

Youth Infusion is an organization created and run by young people which works to support youth as decision-makers, advocates, and community change-agents. We do this by helping the organizations and institutions that make decisions for youth start making decisions with youth. We know this is hard work. That is why we focus on the 'how-to' of youth-adult partnerships. We build collaborative structures, develop transparent processes, and promote inclusive cultures in both non-profit organizations and government agencies. Together, we will envision, plan, build, and secure communities in which we can all actively grow and thrive.

Urban Mountain Voices (UMV) is based in The Monroe County, PA area (aka the Poconos) and consists of Nessa Bell, Ryan Bernard, Blair Thomas, Malcolm Tinglin, Blake Quinn, Carl Watts, and KJ Wilson. The group provides young people an opportunity to express themselves in an open and honest manner through the medium. The group meets every Friday beginning at 4:30pm on the East Stroudsburg University (ESU) of PA Campus and welcomes young people between the ages of 13-20 regardless of their race, gender, sexual orientation, religious affiliation, or academic standing.

Along with special community events such as the screening of “BeNoBull,” The Pocono Community Theater in East Stroudsburg, PA presents independent and foreign films not commonly shown in larger theater complexes. Future events to be presented at The Pocono Community Theater include a Film and Chat Gathering hosted by The Forwardian Arts Society Friday June 4th. Please Contact The Pocono Community Theater at 570-421-3456 for more information.

The Contact information of those mentioned in this article are The Pocono Community Theater at www.poconocommunitytheater.org, Youth Infusion at www.youthinfusion.org, Urban Mountain Voices at www.urbanmountainvoices.org, Donna L. Hamilton, M. D. of Manifest Excellence at askme@manifestexcellence.com, Brooke K. Langan of the East Stroudsburg Area School District at brooke-Langan@esasd.net, Rocco T. Seiler of the Pleasant Valley School District at seiler.rooco@pvbears.org, Criminal Justice Consultant, Motivational Speaker, and Author of “Gangs ‘R’ Real” Michael Leonard, Sr. at www.gangsrreal.com, Steven Burgoon from Pocono Community Access Television (PCA TV) at info@pcatv1.org, and The Forwardian Arts Society at www.theforwardianartssociety.com

Barrymore at the Community

The Pocono Community Theater in East Stroudsburg, PA presented two films made during the silent film era on Thursday April 22nd as part of their “Silent Movies Set to Loud Music” Series featuring the famed actor of the time John Barrymore who was part of a well known theatrical family whose legacy continues to this day through his grand daughter Drew Barrymore. The films were accompanied by music provided by live performances of the bands Mad Lucas and Dreams of Fire along with a solo performance by guitarist/songwriter Keith Leslie aka The Business Fairy.

The first film was titled, “Sherlock Holmes” which was made in 1928 and considered lost until it resurfaced in the mid 1970’s. It was directed by Albert Parker and adapted from a play based on Arthur Conan Doyle’s work with John Barrymore playing the famed detective. The band Mad Lucas performed during the screening featuring Chris Decker on Guitar and Vocals, Chris Sullivan on Guitar and Vocals Jeff "Major Threat" Shatt on Bass and Vocals, and Jaime Miller on Drums. In spite of a technical mishap which disabled their microphones, they performed with great energy and bravado. In fact, the lack of amplification enhanced the performance as it transformed to an acoustic set with songs complimenting the scenes appearing on screen.

The second film was titled, “Tempest” and was made in 1928 and directed by Sam Taylor. The film is noted by some elaborate settings created by William Cameron Menzies who won an Academy Award for Best Art Direction in 1929 which was the first year The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences began presenting them at the Hotel Roosevelt in Hollywood, CA. John Barrymore portrayed a young officer who rises to the rank of Lieutenant in spire of his humble heritage. He is shunned by the aristocratic society but falls in love with a princess of the Romanoff family. He is rebuffed by her, arrested, and stripped of his rank. However, the Communist Revolution takes place and things change for the better for him during The Red Terror which occurred in Soviet Russia in 1918 becoming a series of mass arrests and executions conducted by the Bolshevik government.

Guitarist/songwriter Keith Leslie aka The Business Fairy performed many of the songs he has become well know for throughout the area to the appreciation of the fans who were in attendance during a early portions of the film. He was followed by the band Dreams of Fire featuring Jimmy Lee, Charlie Abriel, Kevin Vanderhoof, Sarah Shown, Will McGrath, Joe Lynch, and Abby Braman who performed their special brand of music presented with all the theatrical frivolity they have become well known for. Their performance brought the film and evening to a delightful conclusion leaving everyone eagerly awaiting the next Silent Movie set to Loud Music Event. You’ll find more photographs in The Forwardian Arts Society Pocono Community Theater 2010 Gallery at www.myspce.com/forwardian_arts.

The Pocono Community Theater in East Stroudsburg, PA offers local film lovers an opportunity to experience the best in independent and foreign film not commonly shown in larger commercial venues. These include films made by local film makers and the inclusion of special events to enhance the community at large. The next event will be The First NEPA Poetry Slamfest beginning at 8pm on Friday April 30th featuring 2009 Women’s Individual Word Slam Champion Rachel McKibbens along with voice performances by Youth Poets featured in HBO’s “Brave New Voices,” Urban Word NYC, The Philadelphia Youth Poetry Movement, and Urban Mountain Voices. There will also be a Mock Slam featuring Youth spit poetry in a high energy competition. Please Contact The Pocono Community Theater at 570-421-3456 for more information.

Websites of those mentioned in this article include The Pocono Community Theater at www.poconocommunitytheater.org, Dreams of Fire at www.myspace.com/dreamoffiremusic, Mad Lucas at www.myspace.com/themadlucasband, Keith Leslie aka The Business Fairy at www.myspace.com/thebusinessfairy, Rachel McKibbens at www.rachelmckibbens.com, HBO’s “Brave New Voices” at www.bravenewvoices.org, Urban Word NYC at www.urbanwordnyc.org, The Philadelphia Youth Poetry Movement at www.phillyyouthpoet.org, and Urban Mountain Voices at www.urbanmountainvoices.org.

Children of the Holocaust Revealed at PCT

“When they came for the Gypsies, I didn’t want to get involved since I wasn’t one. So, I said nothing about it. When they came for Homosexuals, I didn’t want to get involved since I wasn’t one. So, I said nothing about it. When they came for the Political Dissenters, I didn’t want to get involved since I wasn’t one. So, I said nothing about it. So, when they came for me, no one got involved or said anything about it.” A Jewish Survivor of the Holocaust.

The Pocono Community Theater (PCT) in East Stroudsburg, PA hosted “Holocaust Remembrance…The Hidden Children” on Thursday April 8th and event honoring those children who were either placed or nearly escaped being placed in concentration camps during the Holocaust during World War II. The event will be repeated on Sunday April 11th at 7pm on Yom H’Shoah which is a day especially set aside to remember all who suffered during the Nazi Holocaust. Although the event focused upon those Jewish children who hid from the Nazis in WWII Hungary, it also recognized the non Jewish victims such as Gypsies, Homosexuals, Physically and Mentally Handicapped, and those who did not profess Fascism as their personal creed.

The event began with welcoming remarks by Martha Loomis who is the Co Owner of the event’s Sponsor Josephine’s Fleur-de-lis located in Stroudsburg, PA. This was followed by the lighting of Candles commemorating those who died in the Nazi Concentration Camps. This was followed by an introduction given by Camille Breslauer to a documentary film featuring her late husband Tom Breslauer who was featured in the film.

The film was focused on a series of radio interviews conducted with Holocaust Survivor and long time Stroudsburg, PA resident Tom Breslauer which were also videotaped. The film was very well made and contained a great deal of information not commonly known about the Holocaust. It brought a fresh human perspective to those horrific times along with a warning of how easily they can be relived whenever the general population is in agreement some people don’t deserve the dignity, respect, and right to live as the majority.

After the film, an overview of the book entitled “Remember Us” was given by its contributing editor Evi Blaikie. The book was written by The Hungarian Hidden Children of New York, Inc and shares the memories of thirty Hungarian Men and Women who survived the Holocaust as children in hiding. These children were kept safe from the Nazis occupying Hungary by neighbors who did not want them to suffer the fate of many others. Although they were spared the horrors of the Concentration Camps, the fact they had to be hidden away made them victims nether the less. The end of the war and occupation left them with no real home as many were place in orphanages, no families as many parents and siblings were killed in the camps, and no identity as they had to hide all they were to remain alive.

The event continued with readings from Tamas Revai, Suzanne Nash, and Susan Kalev who contributed to the book and shared their childhood memories of WWII Hungary. This was followed by a statement by Associate Professor of History of The Northampton Community College Dr. Brian Anutt whose many of his courses focuses on the Holocaust experience. The evening concluded with questions for the participants from the audience. The book, “Remember Us” is available for purchase at Josephine’s Fleur-de-lis with proceeds going toward endeavors to educate the general public about the Holocaust. Please Contact Josephine’s Fleur-de-lis at 570-476-7909 for more information. You’ll find more photographs relating to the event in The Forwardian Arts Society Pocono Community Theater 2010 Gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

The Pocono Community Theater in East Stroudsburg, PA offers local film lovers an opportunity to experience the best in independent and foreign film not commonly shown in larger commercial venues. These include films made by local film makers and the inclusion of special events to enhance the community at large. The next events at The Pocono Community Theater will include an Artist’s Reception beginning at 1pm on Saturday April 10th featuring a body of Rod Cameron’s work entitled, “Paradise Found” and the body of Clarissa Jan Ward worked entitled, “Not only the Earth but also the Heavens.” The exhibition will continue until May 16th.

The Theater will also present “Silent Shakespeare” beginning at 8pm on Thursday April 22nd featuring a showing of the work of William Shakespeare as depicted in films made during the Silent Film Era while accompanied by music performed live by Dreams of Fire, Mad Lucas, and The Business Fairy. In addition to all this, The Pocono Community Theater will host The First NEPA Poetry Slamfest beginning at 8pm on Friday April 30th featuring 2009 Women’s Individual Word Slam Champion Rachel McKibbens along with voice performances by Youth Poets featured in HBO’s “Brave New Voices,” Urban Word NYC, The Philadelphia Youth Poetry Movement, and Urban Mountain Voices. There will also be a Mock Slam featuring Youth spit poetry in a high energy competition. Please Contact The Pocono Community Theater at 570-421-3456 for more information.

Websites of those mentioned in this article include The Pocono Community Theater at www.poconocommunitytheater.org, Josephine’s Fleur-de-lis at www.josephinesonmain.com, Evi Blaikie at www.eviblaikie.com, Dreams of Fire at www.myspace.com/dreamoffiremusic, Mad Lucas at www.myspace.com/themadlucasband, The Business Fairy at www.myspace.com/thebusinessfairy, Rachel McKibbens at www.rachelmckibbens.com, HBO’s “Brave New Voices” at www.bravenewvoices.org, Urban Word NYC at www.urbanwordnyc.org, The Philadelphia Youth Poetry Movement at www.phillyyouthpoet.org, and Urban Mountain Voices at www.urbanmountainvoices.org.

Maria seen at PCT and discussed at UUFP

The Pocono Community Theater (PCT) in East Stroudsburg, PA presented The 29th Black Maria Film and Video Festival on Saturday March 20th. The festival was hosted by The Universalist Unitarian Fellowship of The Poconos (UUFP) in Stroudsburg, PA and a discussion was held at their facilities. Numerous film lovers attended both events which were enjoyable and left many eagerly anticipating next year‘s festival.

After a welcoming introduction given by Jim Elsaesser of the UUFP, the festival began at The Pocono Community Theater with the showing of several short independent pieces chosen from submissions made by individuals throughout the international filmmaking community. Although they were a sampling of the films awarded through the festival’s jury system, one can almost imagine the outstanding quality of the entire selection through the films presented that afternoon. They moved, touched, and informed their audiences in ways seldom accomplished making the experience a very worthwhile one.

The first of the nine films shown was entitled, “Benediction of the Beasts” received a Director’s Choice Award and was made in Rome Italy by Paul Zinder. It depicted an annual event of the Roman Catholic Church blessing the animals brought in by their owners. This is done in honor of St. Francis of Assisi who took the words of Jesus saying, “Go preach the Gospel to every nation and creature” quite literally. The film focused on the pet owners and the reasons why they were brining their friends to be blessed. Their stories were varied but shared the common faith that their God loved their pets as much as they do and is eagerly awaiting the opportunity to bless them.

The film concluded with the actual blessing itself. It seemed a bit of a contrast as the process was done in a somewhat assembly line fashion. The priest officiating the ceremony seldom spoke to the participants directly as he seemed more concerned in keeping the crowd moving in an orderly direction. This was most evident in his response of “Bravo” given to both those who introduced their pet to him and a child who said he was mean. Perhaps this contrast was presented to demonstrate the contrast between a faith in a loving God and the practices of an organized church. But, this could be stretching our interpretational imagination a bit too far.

The next film entitled, “Second Hand Dolls” received a Jury Choice Award and was made in San Francisco (a city named after St. Francis of Assisi), CA by Anthony Weeks. The film depicted the preservation of store mannequins by a shop owner who feels too many businesses are throwing away perfectly good statuettes just because new ones are available. The film also depicted an older woman in her mid seventies who continues practicing her art of ballet and is able to move through its poses in spite of her advanced age. This contrast led the film’s audience to explore who our society often cast its members aside when newer and more attractive models become available. We seldom realize many of the well established models have much to offer and can enhance the whole of society with their presence. The film was shot in black and white which enhanced it’s message by creating images starkly contrasted by their visual properties making the subjects more real and their stories more urgent to the viewer. Even the stories of the mannequins.

The next film entitled, “The Passenger” received a Jury Choice Award and was made in Marshfields, MA by Julie Zammarchi. The film reflected the personal decision of the filmmaker to end her life through a medically administered lethal injection rather than suffer the lingering effects of the terminal condition she was diagnosed with. Her story was told through the use of animation to great effect detailing her decision and speculating what she might discover after her decision is realized. The film brought many theological approaches to life and death but mostly considered those found in the eastern religions such as Buddhism and Vedanta (aka Hinduism). The film provided its audience with a nice mixture of humor and pathos which blended together to create a meaningful understanding of life and death and the decisions the affect.

The next film entitled, “Breaking Boundaries: The Art of Alex Masket” received a Director’s Choice Award and was made in Montclair, NJ by Dennis Connors. The film depicted the life of a 22 year old autistic man named Alex Masket who has created an enormous volume of artistic work made of Legos and other household items. His work has been recognized by the art community as something unique and is shown in many galleries. Indeed, their intricacies and the movement of the images he creates in his work are very impressive.

The film not only explored the effects of autism on the individuals and family along with all these people can accomplish in spite (or because of) their affliction, but the film also explored the very nature of creativity. As mentioned by one art expert appearing in the film, “One can not ascertain how Alex does what he does. However, no artist without autism can verbally tell you how they do what they do, either.” This leads to a deeper question as to the very nature of creativity and what initiates it. This is a perplexing question scholars, psychologist, and philosophers have been pondering for quite some time. But, seeing someone like Alex reminds us it’s sometimes best to put such questions aside and just enjoy the work along with all it has to offer.

The next film entitled, “Worlds of Sound: Ballad of Folkways” received a Director’s Choice Award and was made in Washington, DC by Andrea Kalin. The film chroniclized the history of Foilkways records who sought to collect every sound man and nature could make. These recordings included rainstorms, animals, and a variety of music not considered commercially viable by larger established recording studios. This music ranged from African and South American Tribal Chants to folk singers such as Pete Seger (who narrated the documentary), Woody Guthrie, and others who became well known for their musical endeavors.

What was striking about the story about this record company was how its founder decided early on not to use the company for commercial gain. In fact, there was a story depicted about how he wanted to take that approach at the very beginning by signing up a young Nat king Cole with the desire to put out a “Hit Record” and make a great deal of money like the established record companies do. However, after creating a great many records to be sent to stores, a freak snowstorm prevented him from shipping them and he became bankrupted soon afterwards. He then decided if he was going to have a viable record business, he should adopt the policy of “no more hits.” This took the pressure and limitations of only doing what made business sense and allowed him to explore new and exciting approaches to recording thus making it possible to make what doesn’t make sense work.

The next film entitled, “Found: Nothing Missing” received a Director’s Choice Award and was made in Albuquerque, NM by Patricia McInroy. The film dealt with the situation of missing animals and the signs per owners put up to find them. What could have been a bad Sarah McLaughlin commercial soon become something very amusing as the director began to wonder what happens when the animals are found and the posters still remain posted. She also explored the language used in some of the posters which sometimes gave the pets the power of speech. The film left one to wonder what happens if a pet is not found over a period of time. Do some owners hire a computer expert to work on the photograph of their pet saying, “Our cat was lost 5 years ago. This is what he looked like then. This computerized images is how he would look like now.?”

The next film entitled, “Sabastian’s Voodo” received a Director’s Choice Award and was made in Sherman Oaks, CA by Joaquin Baldwin. The computer animated film depicted a collection of Voodoo Dolls who suffer the torments of their master as he places pins in them. One doll decides to escape and put an end to this. He does so by placing pins into himself and they effect to voodoo practitioner but does not cause him to cease his activity. It isn’t until the doll sacrifices himself by placing a pin through his heart does the torture stop.

The film was enjoyable to watch and the theme of self sacrifice in order to save one friends was well taken. However, the look and style of the film lacked a certain sense of originality as it too closely resembled the 2009 film “9” directed by Shane Acker and produced by Tim Burton. Although “Sabastian’s Voodo” was made in 2008, Shane Acker did make a short film in 2005 from which his full length feature was based. This by no means suggests Joaquin Baldwin purposely set out to imitate the film “9,” but this writer would have appreciated it more if the similarities weren’t so prevalent.

The next film entitled, “My Girlfriend Sleeps Like Superman” received a Director’s Choice Award and was made in Boston, MA by Steve Gentile. This animated love poem can only be simply described as funny. Every person who ever slept alongside another person could easily relate to how their bedside partner often positions themselves into a pose resembling the flight of Superman and how that position sometimes dispels them from the bed. This often causes the male of the sleeping arrangement (like me) wondering what he did wrong now. Yet, the filmmaker utilizes this experience to reflect upon his affection by imagining himself protecting his sleeping girlfriend from the likes of Lex Luthor who is entering their bedroom with a bowl full of Kryptonite to which he pushes him down the stairs. The dude is smarter than your average Jimmy Olsen.

The final film entitled, “Missed Aches” received a Jury Choice Award and was made in Sherman Portland, OR by Joanna Priestley. This animated piece was even funnier than the film shown just prior to it. It explored all the mistakes one makes while typing away even with the help of spell check. This led to the film maker to circumstances such as “not getting into a good colleague because he’s a bed spiller.” Many who have read my articles can attest I have a similar problem. The film did inspire me to be more careful in what I write. After all, I’d like to get into a good colleague as much as anyone else.

The discussions held at The Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of the Poconos in Stroudsburg, PA explored the many themes the films offered as well as an examination of the quality of the films presented. The discussion was lively and all viewpoints were expressed in a manner denoting those present desire to learn more from the films than what was easily seen. In other words, those who participated in the discussion sought to discover the deeper meaning of the works not commonly seen by the average moviegoer. You’ll find more photographs of the festival and the subsequent discussions in The Forwardian Arts Society Pocono Community Theater 2010 Gallery.

The 29th Annual Black Maria Film and Video Festival began in 1981. The festival takes it’s name from a motion picture studio built by Thomas Edison in 1893. The festival holds an international juried competition and award tour seeking to fulfill its mission to advocate, exhibit, and reward cutting edge works from independent film and videomakers. The Award tour began on Friday February 5th at New Jersey University in Jersey City, NJ with an Opening Night and Awards Ceremony. It then commenced upon it’s nationwide tour to include venues in California, Colorado, New Jersey, Florida, and The Pocono Community Theater in East Stroudsburg, PA. They will welcome entries form filmmakers for the 30th Annual Festival in July 2010 at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

The Pocono Community Theater in East Stroudsburg, PA offers local film lovers an opportunity to experience Independent and Foreign Films not commonly shown in larger movie venues. They also offer community minded events such as film festivals, art exhibitions, live theater, and other live events designed to enhance creative expression and appreciation. The next events at The Pocono Community Theater includes The Forwardian Arts Society Film and Chat Gathering on Friday April 2nd offering a late afternoon screenings of a selected film along with an opportunity to share in a discussion in the theater’s coffee house area, Lunafest on Saturday April 3rd beginning at 12pm featuring a series of 10 short films created by, for, and about women, and The First NEPA Poetry Slamfest Friday April 30th beginning at 8pm featuring 2009 Women’s Individual Word Slam Champion Rachel McKibbens along with voice performances by Youth Poets featured in HBO’s “Brave New Voices,” Urban Word NYC, The Philadelphia Youth Poetry Movement, and Urban Mountain Voices. Please contact The Pocono Community Theater at 570-421-3456 for more information about them and all they offer.

The Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of the Poconos in Stroudsburg, PA holds a weekly service every Sunday morning along with other programs designed to enhance the spiritual experience through the acceptance and inclusion of a variety of religious teachings in their worship. The next events at The Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of the Poconos includes their Yogananda Kriya Yoga Meditation Sessions held the first and third Mondays of each month beginning at 6:30pm and their Buddhist Meditation Meetings held every Thursday beginning at 7pm. Please contact The Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of the Poconos at 570-420-0580 for more information about them and all they offer.

The Websites of those mentioned in this article are The Pocono Community Theatre at www.poconocommunitytheater.org, The Black Maria Film Festival at www.blackmariafilmfestival.org, The Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of the Poconos at www.uupoconos.org, The Forwardian Arts Society at www.theforwardianartssociety.com, Lunafest at www.lunafest.org/the-films.cfm, Rachel McKibbens at www.rachelmckibbens.com, “Brave New Voices” at www.bravenewvoices.org, Urban Word NYC at www.urbanwordnyc.org, The Philadelphia Youth Poetry Movement at www.phillyyouthpoet.org, and Urban Mountain Voices at www.urbanmountainvoices.org.

A Clockwork Sherman

The Sherman Theatre in Stroudsburg, PA presented another installment of their Severed Sinema Series on Thursday March 18th entitled, “Cult Movie Madness” featuring the films “Suspiria” and “A
Clockwork Orange” with special musical guests Nu Prosta Kaif along with work from a variety of artists that enhanced the event. The musical performance was taped by Shane Izykowski for a future video featuring the band. A sizable crowd attended the event including those who formed a picket line protesting the nature of one of the films.

Those entering the Sherman Theater were greeted by a variety of works created by numerous local artists. They included Judy Zarach, Jennifer Smith, David B. Schappert, Brittney Stever, Kailei Picciotti, and Abby Braman. The work complimented the evening’s event as many of the images sought entry to the same areas of the mind most horror films do. Many depicted emanative scenes entreating the viewer to linger for a while.

The evening’s festivities began with the showing of the 1977 Italian horror film entitled, “Suspiria” which was a directed by Dario Argento and co-written by actress Daria Nicolodi with whom the director was romantically involved at the time. It stared Jessica Harper, Udo Kier, and Joan Bennett in her final film role. It’s said “Suspiria” is the first of a film trilogy the director refers to as "The Three Mothers" which were followed by the films “Inferno” in 1980 and “The Mother of Tears” in 2007.

However, Earl Kessler who is the curator and host of the Severed Sinema series expressed doubts about the verity of the claim as the films seem very unrelated to one another and the claim could have been simply a publicity ploy. But, the film does have one distinction that doesn‘t seem to be in dispute. It was the final feature film to be processed in Technicolor before the plant was closed.

The film itself takes place in Germany at a prestigious dance academy in Freiburg. An American Ballet student arrives and strange things begins to happen not only to her but those around her as well. The director Dario Argento does a very good cinematic job in creating a sense of suspense and atmosphere, but it never really seems to pay off. It comes close at times, but not quite close enough. It even had elements common in the severed sinema series of being so bad it’s good. But, the film’s plodding pace diffused this potential. Still, it was good to watch this film with your friends if only for them to hold your hand to assure you it was almost over.

During the intermission, the heavy metal band Nu Prosta Kaif performed led by Dmitry on vocals, Lex on lead guitar, Iggis Nossdrugis on bass guitar, and Wil Mohlenhoff on Drums. The performance included a dancer of whom I was to shy to ask her name. The music was loud and befitting the very best of the genre. This included the added spectacle of the costuming and special effects seen on stage. The songs written by Dmitry and played by his band mates hit the audience hard and they kept coming back for more. As mentioned before, the whole performance was recorded by Shane Izykowski for a future video featuring the band.

Later that evening, the 1971 Stanley Kubrick film “A Clockwork Orange” was shown. This classic film was based on the 1962 novel by Anthony Burgess and stared Malcolm McDowell as a charismatic, psychopathic delinquent named Alex DeLarge who leads a violent street gang who he calls “Droogs” which is from a Russian word meaning friends or buddy. Besides the artistic approach of violence which led the film to be so controversial it was banned from many theaters throughout the world, another creative attribute is the language spoken by the characters comprising of a mixture of Salvic and English set to a Cockney rhyming slang and used as a secret language between the gang. Although the linguistics is confusing, they begin to draw an audience member deeper into the film and the main character’s psyche. In fact, the film stands as a criminating indictment on psychiatry and attempts to utilize the practice to control the behavior of others.

The film takes place in the near future and opens with the street gang at the Korova Milk Bar which serves mescaline-spiked milk. They are soon seen beating up an elderly vagrant, fighting another gang, and performing a home invasion in which the a man is assaulted, restrained, and made to watch while his wife is brutally raped by Alex as he sings “Singing in the Rain.” They return to the milk bar as a group of performers are sitting at a neighboring table. A woman among them begins to sing a piece from Beethoven and one of Alex’s gang mocks her. It is then we discover Alex’s affection for Beethoven’s work when he quickly chastises him.

Later in the film, Alex become challenged by the gang who wants to give him less power and perform more ambitious crimes. This leads Alex to attack the gang to re-establish his leadership of them. He succeeds and becomes “benevolent” by agreeing to invade another home which belongs to a woman who owns a health farm. However, Alex’s Gang set’s him up to take the blame for the home invasion and the death of the woman. He is then sentenced to 14 years in prison.

Once in prison, Alex becomes friends with the chaplain and takes an interest in the Bible’s more violent passages even envisioning himself as a Roman soldier who beats Jesus on the way to his crucifixion. The minister of the Interior arrives at the prison seeking volunteers for the Ludovico technique which is an experimental aversion therapy for rehabilitating criminals. Alex eagerly steps forward and is accepted.

Alex soon finds himself restrained with his eyes mechanically affixed to remain open while being shown films depicting acts of extreme violence. He is also given a drug to induce revulsion while witnessing the acts. However, in one sequence involving scenes of Nazi Germany, the soundtrack of the film features the 9th Symphony written by Beethoven. Alex protests fearing he may experience the same revulsion to the music as he would the images, but his protests are unheeded.

Alex is later seen in front of a large audience who wish to see the result of the experiment. A man soon appears on stage with him who physically assaults him to which Alex is unable to respond. He then encounters a semi nude woman on stage which he is also unable to respond to. He’s declared cured but the prison chaplain protests saying Alex has no real choice and morality is all about choices and free will. He is quickly quieted by those who accuse him of merely arguing semantics.

Alex leaves a “free” man but soon discovers he’s still in prison as his responses to all he encounters are limited by the Ludovico technique. He is no longer able to express his out rages nor is he able to defend himself when being attacked. He soon becomes beaten and bruised finding himself taken unwittingly by the man whose home he invaded and whose wife he raped. He offers to help Alex as he had heard of the technique and thinks it’s an inhumane punishment. While taking a bath, Alex begins to sing, “Singing in the Rain” and the man begins to realize his wife’s rapist is in his house. The man calls his friends, they drug Alex, and torture him by playing Beethoven’s 9th Symphony through loud speakers.

Alex tries to commit suicide by jumping out a window, but he survives to awaken in a hospital. He soon discovers the Ludovico technique has been reversed and the Minister of the Interior visits him offering an important government job and some financial compensation on the condition he causes the government no grief over their actions. As proof of Alex being cured, the Minister of the Interior has loud speakers rolled in playing Beethoven’s 9th Symphony. Alex no longer suffers revulsion from the music. In fact, he begins seeing images of sexual pleasure to which the film ends with Alex’s words in a menacing voice over saying, "I was cured, all right!"

As mentioned earlier, the film is an indictment on the physiological quick fixes which are even more prevalent in our society than they were in 1971. There are so many pills and procedures on the market it is easy to choose what mood we’re in or how to respond to anything we don’t like in a non disturbing manner. We’ve always had this power and we don’t need a pill or anything else to exercise it. However, we do need patience and perseverance which is in very short supply thus making taking a pill all the more an attractive proposition.

Although there is an absolute need for such remedies in some cases, there seems to be a desire among those who don’t really need the remedy but only want it. It’s unrealized this has an adverse of only allowing one the emotions, thoughts, and behaviors the medication allows one to have. For instance, many who take anti depression medication often notice their sexual drive and their ability to make timely decisions are compromised. Many are also report being no longer able to respond to a volatile situation in a manner to assure their safety. These experiences are very similar to those of Alex as depicted in “A Clockwork Orange.” The film seems to herald a warning that our abilities to live life without the constraints of the drugs and procedures we volunteer for is slowly leading us to a life not worth living. Perhaps we will one day heed such a warning.

As also mentioned earlier, there were a number of protestors picketing outside The Sherman Theater during the event. I did not meet with any of protestors but I did see sentiments proclaiming a need to fear God on some of the signs. Given the history of “A Clockwork Orange” in regards to the censorship it encountered in 1971, I could only guess these protestations had to do with it. Although I respect the views of others, I do wonder why people are still upset over a film made nearly 40 years ago. Wouldn’t the religious precepts of forgiveness and tolerance help parishioners of the faith get over their distraught by now? Just wondering. You’ll find more photographs in The Forwardian Arts Society Severed Sinema 2010 Gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

The Next installment of The Sherman Theatre Severed Sinema Series will be on Friday April 16th at 7pm and be entitled, “Bloodthirsty Bunnies” featuring the film “Night of The Lepus,” short films submitted by Severed Sinema Fans, pictures with Evil Easter Bunny taken by Shane Izykowski, and musical guest Mad Lucas. Other future events at The Sherman Theater in Stroudsburg, PA will include “Train” on Friday March 26th, Jo Dee Messina on Thursday April 1st, their “Clash for Cash The Ultimate Battle of the Bands!” on Saturday April 10th, The “Library Alive V” on Thursday April 15th, and Carmin Appice’s SLAMM on Saturday April 17th. Please Contact The Sherman Theatre at 570-420-2808 for more information.

The Websites of those mentioned in this article are The Sherman Theatre at www.shermantheatre.com, Nu Prosta Kaif at www.myspace.com/nuprostakaif, Shane Izykowski at www.myspace.com/shaneizykowski, Jennifer Smith at www.myspace.com/blooddiemond, Brittney Stever at www.brhsphotography.com, Abby Braman at www.myspace.com/rivalstag, David Schappert at www.myspace.com/spudboy4498, Wil Mohlenhoff at www.myspace.com/wilbium, and Mad Lucas at www.myspace.com/themadlucasband.

A Cinematic Outing at PCT

The Pocono Community Theater (PCT) in East Stroudsburg, PA presented a screening of the award-winning documentary entitled, “Out in the Silence” on Saturday March 13th. The film was followed by a Panel Discussion featuring Robert Nead representing Rainbow Youth, Anita Lee representing Parents, Family and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) of Monroe County, Steven Barthold-Rivera who is the faculty co-sponsor of The Stroudsburg High School Gay Straight Alliance, Debbie Weatherford from the Northampton Community College Gay Straight Alliance, Susan Odessky, Esq representing the Social Justice Committee of the Unitarian Fellowship, and Josephine Mero therapist and social worker. The event was sponsored by The Pocono Action Lambda Society (PALS) along with over 50 community minded individuals, organizations, and businesses who support Gay and Lesbian rights throughout the community, state, country, and the world. They include The Tapestry Corner, Christ Episcopal Church Stroudsburg, Kirkridge Retreat and Study Center, Trinity Episcopal Church Mt Pocono, Unity Coalition of the Poconos, Cakes and Scones, ASSI Systems Solutions, Mountain Mutts and Pocono Pups, Pocono Community Theater, Josephine's Fleur-de-lis, and Ginger B. Realty.

The Film, “Out in the Silence,” was created by Joe Wilson and his life partner Dean Hamer and is about Joe Wilson’s confrontation with homophobia and the limitations of religion, tradition, and the status quo in in his conservative, rural hometown of Oil City, PA. The film centers mostly around the school system who often allows bullies to victimize their gay classmates and the parents of these victimized students legal moves to establish an environment where their gay and lesbian children can be educated without the fear of harassment. The film also depicted endeavors from other members of the gay and lesbian community to enhance the overall community by vitalizing the cultural and business environment by restoring a theater once intricate to the town.

The film was well made and addressed a great many issues gay and lesbians face as they try to lead a productive live in society. There were many members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Trans sexual (LGBT) community present during the screening who often nodded their heads in recognition of the challenge those depicted in the film were experiencing. There were also those present who were moved to a deeper level of sympathy and understanding for their friends and family members as the film began to share its insights. The film was followed by a Panel Discussion led by The Pocono Action Lambda Society (PALS) and included an opportunity for the audience to ask questions and to enhance the event by sharing their personal stories and provide additional information to those in need of it. You’ll find more photographs in The Forwardian Arts Society Pocono Community Theater 2010 gallery at www.myspace.com/forwardian_arts.

The Pocono Action Lambda Society (PALS) is a LGBT organization active for over 15 years with membership in areas including Monroe, Pike, Wayne, and Northampton Counties in PA along with Warren and Sussex Counties in northern NJ and Orange and Sullivan Counties in southern NY. In addition to presenting community minded events such as this screening, The Pocono Community Theatre (PCT) in East Stroudsburg, PA also presents Independent and Foreign films not commonly seen in larger venues along with Art Exhibition and other cultural events. The next event scheduled for The Pocono Community Theater will be will host The 29th Black Maria Film and Video Festival on Saturday March 20th beginning at 1pm. Please contact The Pocono Community Theater at 570-421-3456 for more information.

Contact information of those mentioned in this article include The Pocono Community Theater (PCT) at www.poconocommunitytheater.org, Out in the Silence at www.OutintheSilence.com, The Pocono Action Lambda Society (PALS) at www.palsnepa.org, Parents, The Family and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) on Monroe County at amleepflag@aol.com, Rainbow Youth at www.rainbowyouth.net, The Stroudsburg High School Gay Straight Alliance at www.high.sburg.org, The Northampton Community College Gay Straight Alliance at www.northampton.edu, The Universalist Unitarian Fellowship of the Poconos at www.uupoconos.org, Josephine Mero at 570-595-9590, Kirkridge Retreat and Study Center at www.kirkridge.org, The Tapestry Corner at www.tapestrycorner.com, Christ Episcopal Church Stroudsburg at www.christchurchstroudsburg.net, Trinity Episcopal Church Mt Pocono at www.trinitymtpocono.org, The Unity Coalition of the Poconos at www.poconounitycoalition.org, Cakes and Scones at www.cakesandsconesbakery.com, Mountain Mutts and Pocono Pups at www.mountainmutts.com, Josephine's Fleur-de-lis at www.josephinesonmain.com, Ginger B. Realty at www.gingerbrealty.com and The Black Maria Film Festival at www.blackmariafilmfestival.org