The 2024 film awards season has concluded, leaving behind a legacy of diverse and compelling films. As spring approaches, the Hudson Valley region offers a rich lineup of cinema events that cater to all tastes. From powerful documentaries to classic comedies, these screenings provide an excellent opportunity to revisit or discover films that have shaped cinematic history. The month of March brings six notable movie events at independent theaters, each offering unique experiences for film enthusiasts.
Documentary Powerhouse and Classic Revivals
In early March, No Other Land, a documentary directed by Yuval Abraham, Basel Adra, Rachel Szor, and Hamdan Ballal, will continue its run at Time & Space Ltd starting on March 2, and then move to Story Screen Cinema from March 14. This powerful film captures the poignant story of a Palestinian activist and an Israeli journalist forming an unlikely bond while documenting the destruction of a West Bank village. The raw, unfiltered portrayal of events evokes both empathy and introspection, making it a significant contribution to the genre.
Mid-March welcomes a revival of Neil LaBute’s 1997 black comedy, In the Company of Men. Screening on March 8 at The Moviehouse, this film explores the dark side of corporate culture through the eyes of two executives who manipulate an innocent woman. Post-screening, director Neil LaBute will join John Carroll Lynch for a discussion, providing deeper insights into the film's themes.
Breaking Away, a beloved sports comedy from 1979, screens on March 12 at Jacob Burns Film Center. Directed by Peter Yates, this film features a stellar cast including Dennis Christopher and Dennis Quaid. It tells the coming-of-age story of four teenagers in a small Indiana town who rally around their friend’s dream of becoming a bicycle racer. The film’s heartwarming narrative and strong character chemistry make it a timeless classic.
On St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, The Fugitive returns to the big screen at Story Screen Cinema. Directed by Andrew Davis, this thrilling chase movie stars Harrison Ford as a man wrongfully convicted of murder, who must evade US marshals to clear his name. The film’s tight plot and memorable performances have made it a quintessential action thriller.
March 22 sees the screening of A Citizen’s Guide to Preserving Democracy at Upstate Films Starr Cinema. Featuring Richard Haass, president of the Council on Foreign Relations, this documentary addresses the challenges to democracy and offers practical solutions. Following the screening, Haass will engage in a discussion with NYU Professor Ruth Ben-Ghiat, adding depth to the conversation on preserving democratic values.
Closing out the month is Space Jam at The Rosendale Theater on March 23. This 1996 live-action/animation hybrid starring Michael Jordan and Bugs Bunny was a cultural phenomenon upon release. Its blend of basketball, Looney Tunes characters, and groundbreaking visual effects continues to captivate audiences nearly three decades later.
Reflections on Cinema’s Impact
These March screenings not only offer entertainment but also serve as a reminder of cinema’s power to educate, inspire, and provoke thought. From the stark realities depicted in No Other Land to the nostalgic charm of Space Jam, each film provides a window into different aspects of human experience. As we watch these stories unfold on screen, we are invited to reflect on our own lives and the world around us. Whether through laughter, tears, or thoughtful dialogue, these films remind us of the enduring magic of cinema.