ROBINSON FILM CENTER’S GIVE FOR GOOD MOVIE CAMPAIGN RETURNS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 1st, 2024

ROBINSON FILM CENTER’S GIVE FOR GOOD MOVIE CAMPAIGN RETURNS

Robinson Film Center is releasing the follow-up to its unique 2023 campaign for this year’s Give for Good day. As a way of saying thank you to supporters, RFC staff along with board members and volunteers will appear in videos reenacting famous movie scenes throughout Give for Good day on May 7th as the center hits specific donation levels. Give For Good day, which is powered by the Community Foundation of North Louisiana, is an important fundraising day for many local nonprofit organizations. 

“We had so much fun making and premiering these videos last year,” said Wendell Riley, Executive Director of RFC. “The community loved it, and ever since we’ve been asked if we would be doing something similar this year. Well, we definitely are.” RFC will have bistro specials all throughout the day.

The community’s donations will not only unlock these reenacted movie scenes, but will help keep the film center’s mission to educate, enrich and entertain through the power of film alive. The videos will be released on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube based on the following fundraising targets:

Pre-GFG Day - $1,500: MOVIE SCENE #1
$5,000:  MOVIE SCENE #2
$10,000: MOVIE SCENE #3
$20,000: MOVIE SCENE #4
$30,000: MOVIE SCENE #5
$40,000: MOVIE SCENE #6

“We’re excited to do this again, because it allows us to express our undying love of cinema while showing gratitude to our supporters,” said Riley. “Give for Good is a big part of our annual fundraising cycle, and this year we hope to use the funds to continue to make some major improvements in the center.” 

The center announced the campaign last week with the following video: 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8mEiMd23j3k&t=1s&ab_channel=robinsonfilmcenter

For more information on the campaign and to donate, visit:
 https://www.giveforgoodnla.org/organization/Rfcmovies

            For media inquiries, please contact Wendell Riley at wendellr@robinsonfilmcenter.org.

RFC TO SHOWCASE LOCAL FEMALE FILMMAKERS WITH THIRD ANNUAL STORYTELLHERS PROGRAM

Robinson Film Center will present the third installment of the popular StoryTellHERS program on April 25th at 7pm. The event, which showcases films by local female filmmakers, is presented under RFC’s Regional Filmmakers Spotlight series.  

This year’s lineup, which was curated by local filmmaker Kristi J. Woodard, includes Spooky Crew by Erin Bennett, Off Sides by Kaitlyn Brown, Daffodils in December by Emma Francis, How Do I Tell You This by Lara Hill, Pink Suit Black Suit by Jaya McSharma, and CANS Can't Stand by Megan Plotka. The 83-minute slate will be followed by a panel discussion and a Q&A with the filmmakers. “I initially wanted to do the series just to showcase and support an often-underappreciated section of our film community -- female filmmakers,” said Woodard. “The past two years, it's not only become a space to showcase those women and their stories, but, as I was told by past participants and patrons, it's become a safe haven where it's not about competition, it's about supporting women and their visual art.”

"We hear the phrase “representation matters” a lot these days, but it’s true. I know when I’m in a room full of other female filmmakers, it fills me with confidence and a desire to create more,” said Rachael Hansil, Education Director at RFC and film producer. “At RFC, we love giving local filmmakers an avenue to screen their work, but the panel discussions are what really make us special and set us apart from other theaters. The StorytellHers event is always packed full of community members ready to engage. That’s when the magic happens.”

Tickets are available at http://robinsonfilmcenter.org/storytellhers. For media inquiries, contact Wendell Riley at wendellr@robinsonfilmcenter.org.

Robinson Film Center, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit arts organization based in Shreveport, educates, enriches, and entertains through the power of film. RFC exhibits independent, international, and classic cinema daily in two movie theaters, with a full-service bistro and special events space upstairs. RFC provides film history and media literacy classes for all ages, focusing strongly on K-12 students and senior citizens. RFC also supports outreach programs that promote and strengthen the state’s film industry.

RFC TO HOST SCREENING OF ‘ASSEMBLY REQUIRED’ FEATURING WILLIAM JOYCE

Robinson Film Center will host a screening of the award-winning documentary Assembly Required on March 21st at 7pm in the Willis Knighton Theater.  

The short documentary, featuring interviews with creatives such as Shreveport’s William Joyce (writer/illustrator), Nelson Coates (production designer), Leah Rama (fashion designer), and Ken Kocienda (Apple hardware designer), and executives such as Ed Catmull (Pixar), Shona Brown (Google), and Gina Rudan (X), explores the particular challenges of building and leading creative teams in the 21st century workforce. The screening will also feature a panel discussion and Q&A with filmmaker Matt Maxwell, directors Kyle Dickson & Mike Wiggins, and community activist Allison Richardson. Jeffrey Goodman will serve as the moderator.

"This is going to be a special screening for us as it is geared toward current and future local business leaders,” said Wendell Riley, Executive Director of Robinson Film Center. “As the opportunities and challenges of the 21st century economy continue to evolve, it’s important for us to take time to examine what effective leadership and team building look like, particularly from firsthand accounts of those at the top of their fields.” 

Tickets are available at https://robinsonfilmcenter.org/#/assembly-required/. For media inquiries, contact Wendell Riley at wendellr@robinsonfilmcenter.org.

Robinson Film Center, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit arts organization based in Shreveport, educates, enriches, and entertains through the power of film. RFC exhibits independent, international, and classic cinema daily in two movie theaters, with a full-service bistro and special events space upstairs. RFC provides film history and media literacy classes for all ages, focusing strongly on K-12 students and senior citizens. RFC also supports outreach programs that promote and strengthen the state’s film industry.

RFC ANNOUNCES PROGRAMMING CELEBRATING WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

Robinson Film Center has announced a full slate of programming to celebrate Women’s History Month. RFC will premiere several films focused on women and women’s issues, as well as its inaugural Women in the Reel World round table discussion.  

The month kicks off with Nyad, the true story of athlete Diana Nyad who, at the age of 60, commits to achieving her life-long dream: a 110-mile open ocean swim from Cuba to Florida. Annette Benning and Jodie Foster both earned Oscar nominations for their performances in this film. On March 8th, RFC will premiere The Taste of Things, the critically acclaimed romance starring Juliette Binoche. On March 9th, RFC will also host a screening of Fitting In, which follows a 16-year-old who is unexpectedly diagnosed with a reproductive condition, MRKH syndrome. The diagnosis upends her presumptions about womanhood and sexuality, her relationship with her mother, and most importantly, herself. Other films on the slate include Cabrini and Love Lies Bleeding.

"We are extremely excited about what we have programmed for this month, and we think these films will showcase multiple dimensions of womanhood,” said Rachael Hansil, Education Director of Robinson Film Center. “In addition to the films, we will be hosting the Women in the Reel World symposium on March 9th at 10:30 am, which includes breakfast and a discussion on the roles of women in film, on the screen and off.” The morning will feature a talk with Atlanta based filmmaker and actress Meosha Bean followed by a roundtable discussion with Meosha, actress and musician Jennifer Carsillo, and representatives from Centenary Film Society, which is sponsoring the event.

For showtimes and tickets visit www.robinsonfilmcenter.org. For media inquiries, contact Wendell Riley at wendellr@robinsonfilmcenter.org.

Robinson Film Center, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit arts organization based in Shreveport, educates, enriches, and entertains through the power of film. RFC exhibits independent, international, and classic cinema daily in two movie theaters, with a full-service bistro and special events space upstairs. RFC provides film history and media literacy classes for all ages, focusing strongly on K-12 students and senior citizens. RFC also supports outreach programs that promote and strengthen the state’s film industry.

RFC TO HOST INAUGURAL BLACK FILMMAKER SHOWCASE WITH CINENOIR

Robinson Film Center, in partnership with Mahogani Media, proudly presents the 2024 CineNoir: Black Voices in Film series, Presented by The Centenary Film Society. The series, which will run from February 23rd to the 29th, will showcase and celebrate the rich and diverse tapestry of Black culture through film during Black History Month. The weeklong event will feature a curated selection of locally and regionally made independent features, documentaries, and short films, along with studio released features. Screenings will include intros, panel discussions, and Q&As.

“I am so excited to be partnering with Robinson Film Center to showcase Black voices in the art of filmmaking. Though film is a global medium, we wanted to focus on the artists in our own community, and there’s no place better to spotlight regional filmmakers and Black cinema than our one and only indie film center,” said Kristi Woodard, Owner and Operator of Mahogani Media. “We are thrilled to be partnering together to shine a spotlight on Black voices in film across the African diaspora, including those from our own backyard.”

The lineup includes local award-winning short films such as Shreveport Son and Rising Dawn, as well as feature films such as Bamboozled, The Forty-Year-Old Version, and Glory, with discussions surrounding the cultural importance of these stories.

"We’re honored to bring this series to RFC,” said Wendell Riley, Executive Director of Robinson Film Center. “We have so many amazing Black filmmakers in our community, and this is an opportunity for us to let them show these projects in their hometown, some for the first time.”  RFC plans to make CineNoir an annual series, as community support has been overwhelmingly positive. Sponsorship opportunities are still available, and tickets are on sale now at https://robinsonfilmcenter.org/#/cinenoir/.

For media or sponsorship opportunities, contact Wendell Riley at wendellr@robinsonfilmcenter.org.

Robinson Film Center, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit arts organization based in Shreveport, educates, enriches and entertains through the power of film. RFC exhibits independent, international and classic cinema daily in two movie theaters, with a full-service bistro and special events space upstairs. RFC provides film history and media literacy classes for all ages, focusing strongly on K-12 students and senior citizens. RFC also supports outreach programs that promote and strengthen the state’s film industry.

PACE announces Closet2Pride premiere March 2 at RFC

Closet2Pride reception & documentary premieres March 2nd at Robinson Film Center!

Shreveport, LA – February 5, 2024

PACE’s OUTnorthLa is delighted to announce a special premiere that will show halfway to our next film festival!  Closet2Pride: A Memoir of Shreveport, a documentary about the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals in Shreveport, LA, will premiere at the Robinson Film Center in downtown Shreveport on Saturday, March 2, 2024.  A reception will precede the premiere with a Q&A with the filmmakers Robert Darrow and David Hylan afterwards.

Closet2Pride provides a historical background to the struggles and successes of the LGBTQ+ community, featuring heartfelt interviews, archival footage, and personal stories. The film examines the difficulties of coming out and living openly and authentically in a conservative and religious environment, and the discrimination, violence, and social stigma this community faces. It also celebrates the ways in which the LGBTQ+ community has united to fight for their rights, from earlier activists to present-day movements.  It is a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for acceptance and equality. The film celebrates the strength and courage of the LGBTQ+ community and highlights the challenges they still face.

PACE will host a reception before the film’s showing at the Robinson Film Center at 6 pm, Saturday, March 2nd, followed by the film premiere at 7:30 pm.  The reception will feature the filmmakers, heavy hors d’oeuvres, and a cash bar; tickets for the reception ($10) can be purchased at the OUTnorthLa Film Festival website.  Tickets for the film can be purchased through the Robinson Film Center website or box office.  All tickets will go on sale February 21st.  We expect tickets to go fast as many local residents of northwest Louisiana are interviewed in the documentary.

Filmmakers Robert Darrow and David Hylan have both been very active in Northwest Louisiana for many years in various capacities.  Both have doctoral degrees from LSU-Shreveport, both have been longtime LGBTQ+ activists, both have experience with documentary filmmaking, and both have led non-profit organizations in Shreveport. They are widely known and beloved throughout our region.

Robert Darrow, retiring this spring as the longtime Managing and Artistic Director of the Shreveport Little Theatre, has been active in the theatre community for 54 years.  In 1990, he helped establish The Philadelphia Center, northwest Louisiana’s HIV resource center. Darrow, along with Sherry Kerr, was the filmmaker on Shreveport Little Theatre: Maker of Dreamswhich premiered on Louisiana Public Broadcasting in 2023.

David Hylan recently retired as the longtime Executive Director of the Betty and Leonard Phillips Deaf Action Center in Shreveport, and is enjoying life in Cozumel with his husband Troy.  Hylan was a founding member of PACE, and along with Raydra Hall, was the filmmaker of Small Town Rage: Fighting Back in the Deep South which premiered at PACE’s 2016 film festival and which won the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities Documentary Film of the Year award. 

All tickets for the reception and showing of Closet2Pride go on sale February 21st!  Also mark your calendars for PACE’s 2024 OUTnorthLa Film Festival at the Robinson Film Center which will open the Friday after Labor Day, September 6, 2024.

For more information about PACE, “People Acting for Change and Equality”, Northwest Louisiana’s leading advocacy organization for the LGBTQ+ community, go to www.pacelouisiana.org or find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/pacelouisiana.

Contact Info

Wendell Riley, Executive Director, Robinson Film Center
wendellr@robinsonfilmcenter.org

Robert Darrow
rkdarrow58@gmail.com

David Hylan
davidhylanjr@gmail.com

Submitted by 
Adrienne Critcher
critcher@earthlink.net 

RFC TO HOST SCREENING OF THE COLOR PURPLE WITH KEY HAIRSTYLIST ANDREA BOWMAN

Robinson Film Center will host a special screening of The Color Purple on January 11th at 7pm with an intro and Q&A by Andrea “Mona” Bowman, a Shreveport native and Key Hairstylist on the film.

Bowman, who grew up in the Mooretown area, graduated from Fair Park High School and attended Wiley College in Marshall Texas. Her film credits include The Great Debaters, Emancipation, Pitch Perfect 3, and True Detective Season 3 among many others. She is a two-time Guild Nominated Hairstylist, an Emmy Nominated Hairstylist, and has an Oscar Shortlist and BAFTAS Longlist to her name. “We are so excited to have Ms. Bowman at a screening of The Color Purple as her work on the film is absolutely beautiful, and we share the same vision of exposing people to different facets of filmmaking,” said Wendell Riley, RFC’s Executive Director. “I would strongly encourage anyone interested in doing hair and makeup on a film set to attend, along with those who just want to get more behind the scenes insight on the film.”

Tickets are on sale at https://robinsonfilmcenter.org/#/tcp-discussion/ or by calling the box office at (318) 459-4122.

 For media inquiries, please contact Wendell Riley at wendellr@robinsonfilmcenter.org.

Robinson Film Center, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit arts organization based in Shreveport, educates, enriches and entertains through the power of film. RFC exhibits independent, international and classic cinema daily in two movie theaters, with a full-service bistro and special events space upstairs. RFC provides film history and media literacy classes for all ages, focusing strongly on K-12 students and senior citizens. RFC also supports outreach programs that promote and strengthen the state’s film industry.

RFC BEGINS RENOVATION OF ABBY SINGER’S BISTRO

Robinson Film Center began renovating its restaurant, Abby Singer’s Bistro, on January 2nd, 2024. The project is scheduled to run for several weeks, with a planned reopening in February. While the restaurant is undergoing its renovation, the bistro will still provide its regular lunch and dinner service, along with takeout options in its Event Space on the second floor of RFC.

The renovation, which will include updated lighting, furniture, painting, and décor, will give the restaurant its first full facelift since it opened fifteen years ago. “We are very excited about this project. We have been planning it for quite some time, and we could not have begun this work without the generous support of many local organizations,” said Wendell Riley, RFC’s Executive Director. “The Downtown Development Authority, The Beaird Family Foundation, Mike McSwain Architect, Fusiform Design Workshop, our board, and our generous supporters during Give for Good all made this possible.”

RFC is working with several local contractors to complete the work and will announce a grand reopening in the coming weeks. Updates will be provided on the Abby Singer’s and Robinson Film Center Facebook and Instagram pages, as well as www.robinsonfilmcenter.org.

For media inquiries, please contact Wendell Riley at wendellr@robinsonfilmcenter.org.

 Robinson Film Center, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit arts organization based in Shreveport, educates, enriches and entertains through the power of film. RFC exhibits independent, international and classic cinema daily in two movie theaters, with a full-service bistro and special events space upstairs. RFC provides film history and media literacy classes for all ages, focusing strongly on K-12 students and senior citizens. RFC also supports outreach programs that promote and strengthen the state’s film industry.

ROBINSON FILM CENTER ADDS OPEN CAPTION FILM SHOWINGS FOR HEARING IMPAIRED PATRONS

Robinson Film Center will add select open caption screenings to some of its film runs, beginning this weekend. Open captions will assist hearing impaired patrons fully experience these films by providing written dialogue and scene descriptors onscreen.

Films with captions will be indicated on the RFC website and at the box office, and will begin with screenings of Blackberry and Asteroid City. “At RFC we serve a wide range of patrons, and we try as much as possible to be aware of and accommodate their needs” said Wendell Riley, Executive Director of RFC. “A number of our long-term supporters have expressed the need for captions, particularly within our senior community.”

As the center pilots this program it will add captions to a few screenings a week, if they are available from the studios. “As we roll this out, we need be mindful of accommodating those in need while not alienating members of the audience who would rather not watch a film with captions,” said Riley. “As a community hub, we need to find the right balance for our patron group. We will assess audience reactions in the coming months and adjust as needed.”  

For media inquiries, please contact Wendell Riley at wendellr@robinsonfilmcenter.org.

 Robinson Film Center, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit arts organization based in Shreveport, educates, enriches and entertains through the power of film. RFC exhibits independent, international and classic cinema daily in two movie theaters, with a full-service bistro and special events space upstairs. RFC provides film history and media literacy classes for all ages, focusing strongly on K-12 students and senior citizens. RFC also supports outreach programs that promote and strengthen the state’s film industry.

ROBINSON FILM CENTER BRINGS BACK FAITH ON FILM SERIES WITH ‘FIREPROOF’

Robinson Film Center is bringing back its Faith on Film series with the modern Christian hit film Fireproof, starring Kirk Cameron and Erin Bethea. The screening, which will be held on March 25th at noon, will feature a special recorded introduction by Bethea, and a live introduction by local actor Ted Ferguson.

“In addition to showing first-run films at RFC, we have many successful series and event screenings under banners such as Silver Screenings, Heels & Reels, and Friday Night Freak-out,” said Wendell Riley, Executive Director of RFC. “Faith on Film is a series that we’ve had in the past, and we are testing the waters with Fireproof, with the goal of bringing the series back every month.”

The series was originally conceived as a way to bring together area clergy members from different religions and denominations to have a conversation about film through the lens of their faiths. The new version of Faith on Film will seek to do the same, by showcasing films that highlight different belief systems and explorations of spirituality.  

For media inquiries, please contact Wendell Riley at wendellr@robinsonfilmcenter.org.

Robinson Film Center, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit arts organization based in Shreveport, educates, enriches and entertains through the power of film. RFC exhibits independent, international and classic cinema daily in two movie theaters, with a full-service bistro and special events space upstairs. RFC provides film history and media literacy classes for all ages, focusing strongly on K-12 students and senior citizens. RFC also supports outreach programs that promote and strengthen the state’s film industry.

RFC TO HOST BLACK HISTORY MONTH SCREENING OF OSCAR NOMINATED DOCUMENTARY ‘TIME’ AS PART OF 3 CITY LOUISIANA TOUR

Robinson Film Center will host a screening of the 2021 Oscar-nominated documentary ‘Time’, featuring a live Q&A and book signing with the subjects of the film, Fox and Rob Richardson on February 12th at 1pm, as part of its Black History Month programming. The Shreveport screening will be part of a 3 city Louisiana tour for the couple, who are also releasing a book this month through the Baker Publishing Group.   

Media Release from the St. Charles Center for Faith Plus Action: 

Time: Families, Faith, and Fairness in Sentencing

The St. Charles Center for Faith Plus Action and Foundation for Louisiana are excited to announce its sponsorship of a 3-city tour of Time, an Academy Award nominated full-length documentary, tells the story of Fox and Rob Rich’s relentless fight for each other and justice, despite America’s broken prison system.  As Rob survived two decades at America’s bloodiest penitentiary and Fox raised their sons solo, they never stopped fighting for Rob’s freedom and for their futures against the statistical odds.  This program comes in anticipation of the release of Time 2023, the literary companion to the film.

Despite its worldwide acclaim and due to COVID, Time has never premiered in Louisiana.  Through this thoughtfully designed 3-city tour, the viewing of the film will be combined with a panel discussion and Q & A with the film’s subjects and authors of Time 2023.  Fox and Rob Rich will take participants into a deeper discussion of how faith, strength and community organizing not only brought Rob home, but has served to free countless others.  And their fight continues.

This work will be held as part of the community engagement, narrative change, activation, and education of participants in the Center's programming to mobilize people of faith/conscience to come alongside the work of those most impacted by harms of the criminal legal system and builds necessary allyship to expand community working to address the harms of the criminal legal system.

The film showings begin in New Orleans, February 7, 2023, Shreveport on February 12, and followed by Baton Rouge on February 28.  The significance of these cities goes beyond the geographic coverage of the state by beginning at the entry point for slavery in Louisiana – and the country – of New Orleans and ending in Shreveport, the last stand of the Confederacy in the Civil War.  Baton Rouge provides a focus on the heart of legislative power for the state.

This partnership integrates into The Center’s arts-as education-and-activation programming. Louisiana is the epicenter for mass incarceration. The mass incarceration system financially and socially destabilizes many families of color and reduces economic means with multi-generational effects. Amplifying the voices and experiences of people directly impacted by the system - most of whom are black, brown, and poor - through productions like Time fuels the fire for change, bridging a gap between experience and understanding.

Participants who attend experience a transition from separateness to solidarity, enabling them to engage in collective action. Communities of faith and conscience are in a particularly strong position to help change the moral framework through which our citizens and communities view incarceration. The deepening of community working to be restorative problem solvers means a thriving New Orleans for all who live here.

Time amplifies the multitude of problems undergirding the criminal legal system, the sentencing laws, and harms within carceral institutions while highlighting the strength of black families through this powerful story of fortitude, faith and love.

 Mission Statement of The St. Charles Center for Faith Plus Action

Focusing on racial justice and systemic issues within the criminal legal system, The St. Charles Center for Faith + Action ("The Center") builds a broader, more diverse community of people working actively to make a just and equitable New Orleans - and beyond. We tap the wellspring of energy of people of faith/conscience through immersive art events focused on the realities of the criminal legal system, retreats, seminars, and opportunities for spiritual growth.

With a grassroots community campaign focused on people of faith and people of conscious, we bring people together for experiences that drive them to amplify their engagement in building a stronger, more thriving New Orleans, through restorative justice lens to address the harms of the criminal legal system. Working at the intersection of sacred story and social justice action, The Center convenes faith leaders, community members, and experts to foster action and partnerships based on shared understandings and experiences leading to personal growth, public advocacy, and service to the community.

Co-sponsors include:

· Foundation for Louisiana

· The St. Charles Center for Faith + Action

· The Contemporary Arts Center

· Robinson Film Center

· Advancement Project 

· Watson Memorial Teaching Ministries

· Equal Justice USA 

· Baker Publishing

· National Council of Incarcerated and Formerly Incarcerated Women

For media inquiries, please contact Caroline Durham at (504) 729-8189 or CDurham@StCharlesAve.Center

Robinson Film Center, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit arts organization based in Shreveport, educates, enriches and entertains through the power of film. RFC exhibits independent, international and classic cinema daily in two movie theaters, with a full-service bistro and special events space upstairs. RFC provides film history and media literacy classes for all ages, focusing strongly on K-12 students and senior citizens. RFC also supports outreach programs that promote and strengthen the state’s film industry.

2022 RFC Staff Picks

This awards season, RFC has put together a list of their own favorite movies of 2022. We hope this can give you some movie inspiration as we gear up for the Oscars!

Note from Wendell Riley: I don’t get hung up on “Best of” lists because so much of it is subjective. The enjoyment of a film, beyond its technical merits, can boil down to a number of factors such as personal bias, the viewer’s mood at the time (of viewing and writing), viewing format, environment etc. That being said, here are some of our favorite films of 2022:

Wendell Riley’s Picks:

RFC Executive Director

Everything Everywhere All At Once - I apologize (a little) to those who’ve had to listen to me rave about this film. I absolutely love it, but I know it’s not for everyone. The easiest way to describe it without spoiling anything is that it’s a film that pretentious film school students will be waxing poetic about for decades to come. Many will copy elements from it, and few will succeed in doing it this well.

The Banshees of Inisherin - The ultimate guy breakup movie. It’s heartbreaking, hilarious, profound, and really dark. The performances are amazing, the visuals are sublime, but the standout for me is Barry Keoghan as Dominic.

X and Pearl - This is a dual entry, as Pearl was a surprise sequel to X. Both are fantastic films made on modest budgets but fueled by some great performances, particularly by Mia Goth. The final shot of Pearl is haunting and tragic, and while Goth won’t get much recognition outside of the horror community, her performances show a fantastic range of talent.

Top Gun: Maverick - Top Gun: Maverick is proof that a blockbuster can have heart and a brain, even if said brain switches off from time to time for some amazing adrenaline-fueled action. The cinematography in this film is top-notch, and it’s a fun, nostalgic ride from start to finish.

Till - This was a tough watch for me, but it earns a spot on my list for its importance. This is a story that has not been told nearly enough, and I will echo Mamie Till’s sentiment that people need to see it if we ever have a shot at healing and not letting history repeat itself. 

Honorable mentions: The Menu, Tár, Deadstream, The Batman, You Have No Idea

Alexis Salinas’s Picks

RFC Box Office Manager

Everything Everywhere All at Once - This film is as stunning as it is action-packed, funny, touching, and creative. Michelle Yeoh is at the top of her game with her performance and her chemistry with Ke Huy Quan is off the charts. I expect this to be on “must-watch” lists for many years to come.

Top Gun: Maverick - Going into this film, I was certain that it would be just a cash-grab riding on the coattails of nostalgia. Instead, it was everything that a sequel should be, bringing life to a familiar story by honoring the original and continuing the characters’ journeys in a believable way. Also… what’s not to love about big planes going fast?

Turning Red - As a girl who grew up in the early 2000s, a time ruled by friendship bracelets, boy bands, and Tamagotchis, this movie struck all of the right chords for me. I think everyone can relate to that time in their life when they were an awkward pre-teen and mortified by absolutely anything their family does.

Marcel the Shell with Shoes On - Everyone needs Marcel in their life. His humor, wisdom, and charm are so captivating. It’s impossible not to fall in love with him and cheer this little stop-motion shell on.

The Banshees of Inisherin - I have a deep love for live performance and this just felt so much like a straight play in the best way possible. The beauty of the Irish countryside and the cinematography pushed it over the top to create a gorgeous experience.

The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent - Such an absurd, over the top film in the best way. After leaving the theater, I immediately called my friends to set up a watch party so they could enjoy it, too. If you’re looking for an easy watch with a lot of comedy, this is the one.

Madison Kane’s Picks

RFC Marketing Coordinator

Marcel the Shell with Shoes On - Marcel is the most adorable shell you might ever have the pleasure of meeting. As a fan of the OG YouTube video in my younger years, this one has a special place in my heart. Seeing Marcel bond with his Grandma Connie and search for his lost family brought my love for this little guy to a new level.

White Noise - I’m always amazed by the stories that Noah Baumbach manages to create and capture. This film has so many aspects to it, I couldn’t take my eyes away and still haven’t stopped thinking about it. Not to mention, the cast is great and the supermarket closing scene is everything.

Everything Everywhere All at Once – One of the most creative films I have ever experienced. The Daniels have a wild imagination and everything in the film is beautiful. I could watch this one over and over again!

The Menu – Clever, shocking, and captivating with some dark comedy and a surprise dessert at the end. What more could you ask for in a thriller?

Brian and Charles - The quirky and unique relationship between Brian and his homemade robot friend, Charles, is more heartwarming than you would think. It may not be for everyone, but I really enjoyed this fun watch.

Rachael Hansil’s Picks

RFC Education Director

Amsterdam – Not what I was expecting, but it was a good time. And based on a true events, which I didn’t know going into it. It’s a little off-beat, and Christian Bale is just fantastic, as always.

She Said – I’m a sucker for journalism films, especially female led ones. It’s in the same vein as All the President’s Men, but gets more personal in the lives of its lead characters. It’s an important topic and worth a watch.

Glass Onion – Listen, I know people had issues with this one, but I enjoyed it. It’s fun, easy to watch, and has some surprising cameos. And seriously, you can tell Daniel Craig is just having a good time. Give it a go. 

Persuasion – This is on my list because I watched it more than once. A rarity for me. I’m an Austen fan, and this was a fun take on Persuasion, which isn’t my favorite of her novels. It didn’t take itself too seriously, and neither did I. Enjoyed it a lot. 

Death on the Nile –  Make a star studded who-done-it, and I’m all in. I really enjoyed Kenneth Branagh’s Poirot in Murder on the Orient Express, so this was a no brainer for me. It’s exactly what you think it is set in the backdrop of Egypt. An easy weekend watch.

Robinson Film Center will Celebrate its 15th Anniversary in 2023; Sets Date for The Robbys

Shreveport, LA - Robinson Film Center is celebrating its 15th anniversary in 2023. The center, which hosted its grand opening in May 2008, has themed its celebration “Fifteen Candles”, a riff on the title of the John Hughes film “Sixteen Candles”. As part of the celebration, this year’s Robbys will take place on June 3rd, 2023.

“RFC has had a long and amazing history here in Shreveport,” said Wendell Riley, Executive Director of RFC. “The fact that RFC was even created is a miracle in my opinion, and our goal this year is to showcase the breadth of RFC’s reach, impact, and legacy, and to celebrate those who made it possible.”

RFC, like many other independent art house theaters nationwide, faced challenging waters during the COVID-19 pandemic, but through the dedication of its leadership, board, corporate sponsors, and community supporters, the center weathered the storm and is poised for growth in 2023.

“What we are aiming for now is sustained growth in the coming years,” said Riley. “We’ve seen growing demand for our special screenings and events, even as art house theaters have to contend with the growth of streaming services and encroachment from multiplexes into our market. We’re so excited to showcase RFC in 2023… and beyond.”   

 For media inquiries, please contact Wendell Riley at wendellr@robinsonfilmcenter.org.

RFC Staff Picks: Christmas Movie Edition

RFC has got you covered with Christmas movie suggestions to get you through the Holidays! We'll be posting selections from staff members throughout the rest of this Holiday season for your viewing pleasure.

Wendell Riley’s Picks:

RFC Executive Director

Gremlins (1984) - I have fond memories of seeing this as a kid and having my mind blown by the amazing puppetry and practical effects. The setup is great, and the chaos caused by the gremlins is good unclean fun. It’s a must-watch for me every year.

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989) - For me this is peak Clark Griswold, one of cinema’s finest repressed and slightly angry lame dads with a heart. The movie hums along with episodic shenanigans until the parents and cousins show up, and then all hell breaks loose. I love it.

Meet Me in St. Louis (1944) - This is one I saw for the first time only a couple years ago and I immediately fell in love with it. Judy Garland is radiant in the film, and her performance of “Have yourself a merry little Christmas” is wonderful. The cast is great and they chew on some fantastic dialogue throughout, but my favorite character is Alonzo Smith played by Leon Ames, the hapless father (many times unknowingly) caught up in the dramatic lives of his children.

A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965) - Take Charlie Brown’s existential dread and juxtapose it against Vince Guaraldi’s fantastic score and you have a film that feels light and breezy but stays with you for a long time after you see it.

Die Hard (1988) - For some reason there is still a debate raging about whether or not this is an actual Christmas movie, but for me it’s THE Christmas movie. This is a film my mom took me to see as a kid, and up until that point I had never seen an action film that was shot so beautifully and that felt so larger-than-life, which seems counterintuitive since so much of the movie takes place in small confines. As Argyle says at the end of the film, “If this is their idea of Christmas, I gotta be here for New Year's!"

Alexis Salinas’ Picks:

RFC Box Office Manager

Love, Actually (2003) - What can I say? I’m a sucker for a good rom-com and I love the way these stories cleverly intertwine. The cast is stacked, the soundtrack is great, and the whole journey is such a fun time.

Rise of the Guardians (2012) - While technically set during the Easter Holiday, there’s plenty of winter holiday elements that can qualify it as a Christmas movie. Additionally, the animation is beautiful and the story just gives me the feel-good fuzzies that the holidays should!

Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas (1999) - One of my favorite things about Christmas is getting to feel like a kid again. I practically wore out this VHS tape because I loved watching my favorite Disney characters over and over again. On top of that, each of the stories are so classic.

A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965) - This film is a holiday staple in my household. We watch it every year, even if it’s on in the background, so it’s an integral part of my family’s celebration.

The Holiday (2006) - Such a fun movie with a fantastic cast; both Cameron Diaz’s character and Kate Winslet’s character are so relatable. Plus, every time the Mr. Brightside scene comes around, it’s impossible not to dance and sing along.

Madison Kane’s Picks:

RFC Marketing Coordinator

Elf (2003) - It’s smart, it’s silly and Will Ferrell is hilarious! Seeing Buddy learn the ways of the world outside of the North Pole, eat syrup on his spaghetti, and create wild snowflakes and etch-a-sketch drawings is a highlight of the holiday season for me. Elf is one of the only Christmas movies I will watch any time of the year.

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989) - The Griswold family’s misadventures are always entertaining. I love how well written and completely relatable this movie is. It seems to become more relatable the older I get.

Home Alone (1990) - This one brings a lot of Christmas nostalgia for me. I can remember my twin brother and I (unsuccessfully) attempting to recreate the obstacles from the movie as kids. My brother also strangely looked exactly like young Macaulay Culkin back then which made us both even more obsessed. We couldn’t help but wonder what kind of shenanigans might happen if we were left Home Alone for the holidays like Kevin.

Bad Santa (2003) - Bad Santa is definitely a different kind of Christmas movie. If you’re looking for holiday cheer, this may not be the one for you. The main characters are a bit rude and crass, but it makes for such a fun, exciting, laugh-out-loud adventure!

A Christmas Story (1983) - You can’t help but love how quotable and iconic this movie is. My favorite scene is when Flick is triple dog dared to stick his tongue to a frozen flag pole. I watch this with my family while we open presents on Christmas morning, so it always gets me in the holiday spirit!

Melissa Goslin’s Picks:

RFC Interim Education Director

Cupid For Christmas (2021) - With so many holiday movies on television, this one stands out for its original premise and clever holiday crossover. It also gets bonus points for being directed by SBC native Blayne Weaver.

Rudolph, The Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964) - I can’t even think about this film without all the childhood holiday feels taking over. I even remember the old Norelco commercial that played just before the titles on our Betamax (google it, kids!) tape.  It’s chock full of wacky, lovable characters like Yukon Cornelius, Bumble, and Charlie-in-the-box. But, Hermey, the elf who wants to be a dentist, pushes this to the top of the stop motion Christmas list for me. 

Elf (2003) - I was not a fan at first watch, but now I think I love this movie more every time I see it (which is every year). There’s just something about Will Ferrel’s wide-eyed portrayal of Buddy that gets straight to the magic of the holiday season.

Trading Places (1983) - I think about the scene with down-and-out Dan Akroyd shoving a whole smoked salmon in his Santa suit way more than I should. It has all the laughs, a solid message, and Eddie Murphy at his absolute best.

Edward Scissorhands (1990) - That last moment when Kim (played by Wynona Ryder) realizes the snow is actually ice coming from Edward’s mountainous ice sculpting—well, what else could you possibly want from a Christmas movie?

RFC PARTNERS WITH STAGE CENTER FOR ‘THE COLOR PURPLE’ SCREENING WITH BROADWAY DIRECTOR ZHAILON LEVINGSTON

Shreveport, LA - Robinson Film Center and Stage Center are partnering to host a screening of the film The Color Purple on December 18th at 5pm, as a precursor to the musical adaptation of the beloved classic which will run from January 5th-8th, 2023. The screening will feature an introduction by play director Zhailon Levingston with a musical performance by cast members of the Stage Center show.

“We’re so excited to host a screening of the Steven Spielberg classic at RFC as a primer for the local stage production,” said Wendell Riley, Executive Director of RFC. “When we sat down with Stage Center to discuss collaboration opportunities, this seemed like a no-brainer.”

The Tony Award winning play will be helmed by Levingston, who is from Shreveport and is also the youngest black director to have a show play on Broadway. His directing credits include: “Neptune” (Dixon Place, Provincetown theatre), “The Years That Went Wrong” (Lark, MCC), “The Exonerated” (Columbia Law School), “Chariot Part 2” (Soho Rep., for The Movement Theatre Company), “Mother of Pearl” (LaGuardia Performing Arts Center). He is the co-director of “Reconstruction” with Tony Award-winner Rachel Chavkin. Zhailon is the resident director at “Tina: The Tina Turner Musical” on Broadway and the associate director of “Hadestown” in South Korea.

"Stage Center is thrilled to be partnering with RFC for this unique crossover event, giving SBC audiences the opportunity to see how a story evolves during adaptations; in this case adapting for a realism in film, versus abstraction for the musical stage,” said Jared Watson, Artistic Director of Stage Center. “We hope audiences will take in both, prompting exciting discussion with friends and family!"

 Tickets to the screening are available to the public at http://robinsonfilmcenter.org/ or by calling the box office at (318) 459-4122. Tickets for the Stage Show production are on sale at https://www.stagecenterla.com/thecolorpurple/.

ROBINSON FILM CENTER TO HOST SPECIAL SCREENING OF ‘TILL’ WITH WRITER/PRODUCER KEITH BEAUCHAMP

Shreveport, LA - Robinson Film Center (RFC) will host a special screening of the film Till featuring a live introduction and Q&A with the film’s writer and producer Keith Beauchamp on November 10th at 7pm.

According to the film’s official website, “Till is a profoundly emotional and cinematic film about the true story of Mamie Till Mobley’s relentless pursuit of justice for her 14 year old son, Emmett Till, who, in 1955, was lynched while visiting his cousins in Mississippi. In Mamie’s poignant journey of grief turned to action, we see the universal power of a mother’s ability to change the world.” The movie has been playing at RFC since October 28th, and has garnered stellar reviews nationwide during its theatrical run.

Beauchamp, who co-wrote the film with Michael Reilly and Chinonye Chukwu, grew up in Baton Rouge and has familial ties to Shreveport. Beauchamp began researching and writing for a documentary about the Till case in the 1990s, building a close relationship with Mamie Till Mobley that lasted until her death in 2003.  He has been featured on '60 Minutes', ABC World News Tonight 'Person of the Week,' Court TV, MSNBC, 'Good Morning America,' CNN, BBC as well as in hundreds of publications around the world including The New York Times, Washington Post, USA Today, Associated Press and the Chicago Sun Times. Beauchamp’s past works included TV One’s 'Murder in Black and White' hosted by Rev. Al Sharpton and 'Wanted Justice: Johnnie Mae Chappell’ for the History Channel and ‘BET’s Exceptional Black Women.’

 “We are so honored that Keith is taking time out of his insanely busy schedule to come to Shreveport to present his film,” said Wendell Riley, Executive Director of RFC, “It is important for this story to be shared with our community, and to have the opportunity for additional insight and discourse related to the movie is extremely meaningful to us at RFC.”

Tickets to the screening are available to the public at http://robinsonfilmcenter.org/ or by calling the box office at (318) 459-4122.

For press availability contact wendellr@robinsonfilmcenter.org. For more information about Keith Beauchamp visit https://www.tillfreedomcome.com/about-keith-beauchamp.

OPEN CASTING CALL FOR THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW SHADOWCAST AT RFC

Queer Alpaca Productions (QAP) will be hosting auditions for a shadowcast of the Rocky Horror Picture Show in conjunction with RFC's Friday Night Freak-Out series at 4pm on Friday, September 30th.

The shadowcast, which is a performance of the film by a group of amateur thespians as it is being screened will take place October 28th at 10pm, as part of RFC’s “A Nightmare on Texas Street” October programming. Auditions will be held at the Robinson Film Center’s Multi-Purpose Space (second floor). All roles are currently open. There is no singing required, but performers will be expected to learn their individual roles in order to portray them convincingly. Familiarity with the movie is a plus but not required. Those auditioning should come prepared to dance and perform pantomime to scenes from the film.

Queer Alpaca Productions is also looking for 2-3 stagehands, who will also be extras for the Time Warp and a few other scenes. Those interested in stagehand positions are encouraged to attend the audition as well. While these are not paid positions, QAP and RFC expect a strong turnout as The Rocky Horror Picture Show has a devout and growing cult following.

For questions about the shadowcast, contact Robin Carlisle at robin.carlisle89@gmail.com.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Wendell Riley, RFC Executive Director
(318) 459-4111, wendellr@robinsonfilmcenter.or

RFC Offers $3 Movie Tickets on September 2nd, 3rd, and 4th

Shreveport, LA – Robinson Film Center will offer $3 movie tickets to all shows on September 2nd, 3rd, and 4th, expanding the nationwide effort by The Cinema Foundation to offer $3 movie tickets this Saturday, in honor of National Cinema Day.

“We wanted to join the effort of selling discounted tickets to our community this weekend,” said Wendell Riley, Executive Director of RFC. “But we wanted to take it one step further, and offer $3 tickets over three days, to celebrate a return to cinemas, to say thank you to our patrons, and to recognize that in the current economic climate many people are looking for affordable entertainment options.”

RFC will be showing the critically acclaimed French Film Waiting for Bojangles, along with George Miller’s Three Thousand Years of Longing this weekend. For showtimes and tickets visit http://robinsonfilmcenter.org/ or call the box office at (318) 459-4122.

 FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Wendell Riley, RFC Executive Director
(318) 459-4111, wendellr@robinsonfilmcenter.org

Chef Tootie Morrison Bids Farewell to Abby Singer’s Bistro

Shreveport, LA – Chef Tootie Morrison bid a fond farewell to Abby Singer’s Bistro and the Robinson Film Center today.   

Chef Morrison, who has been with RFC since 2011, informed the staff and board of her intention to leave earlier this year. “Chef Tootie is inextricably linked to the growth and stature of RFC in the community over the last decade,” said Wendell Riley, Executive Director of RFC. “Even though she felt that the time was right to move on, she was gracious enough to continue with us while we transitioned between Executive Directors.”

While her departure means that guests will no longer be able to interact with her at the bistro, operations will continue as normal, with fan favorites remaining on the menu for the foreseeable future. “RFC and Abby Singer’s go hand in hand, and it is important for us to continue the legacy of what has been built, and what our patrons have come to expect from us in terms of quality and service,” said Riley. “We’ve worked with Tootie to make sure this transition is as seamless as possible, with no disruption for our customers.”

“RFC has been an important part of my culinary career,” said Morrison. “Even though I am leaving, it will always have a special place in my heart.”

“Above all, we want to extend our sincere and heartfelt thanks to Tootie for everything she has done for RFC,” said Riley. “On behalf of the staff and board of RFC, I want to wish her every success in her future endeavors.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Wendell Riley, RFC Executive Director
(318) 459-4111, wendellr@robinsonfilmcenter.org

Robinson Film Center to Unveil Newly Renovated Event Space

Robinson Film Center to Unveil Newly Renovated Event Space

 Shreveport, LA – Robinson Film Center will unveil its newly renovated event space at an open house on August 11th, from 5-7 pm.   

 RFC offers the second-floor multi-purpose space to the community at affordable rates, allowing guests to host events such as parties, banquets, corporate trainings, and seminars. The center also offers rentals of its theaters, and a full on-site catering service. RFC’s location downtown, along with being the home of Abby Singer’s Bistro, makes it an attractive location for events of all types and sizes.

 “This space is unbeatable in terms of cost and location,” said Wendell Riley, Executive Director. “However, it has gotten a needed facelift, with new floors and equipment that matches the intended versatility of the room.”

 Longtime visitors to RFC are familiar with the event space, as RFC regularly hosts programming such as the Date Night series, along with film-related classes and summer camps there. The space is also the annual site for the Prize Foundation’s Louisiana Film Prize Top 20 announcement. “Everyone at RFC is excited about the new features in the room,” said Rich Hansil, Education Director at RFC. “We couldn’t have done this without the time and effort put forth by our Board to help us revamp the space to make our programming, classes and camps more impactful while making it more appealing overall.”

 "We want everyone to check out the space, whether they are looking for a cool wedding reception venue or a place for a corporate retreat,” said Riley. “And of course, in addition to the great food from Abby Singer’s, we have awesome popcorn.”

 To RSVP for the unveiling event, email robinsonfilmcenter@gmail.com. Members of the press are invited to attend. For more information about hosting an event at RFC, visit http://robinsonfilmcenter.org/rentals.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Wendell Riley, RFC Executive Director
(318) 459-4111, wendellr@robinsonfilmcenter.org