<<< Wednesdays in 2007 >>>

The American Cinematheque at the Egyptian Theatre and Outfest collaborate to present gay and lesbian programming on Wednesdays at the Egyptian. Outfest Wednesdays is the only gay and lesbian-themed weekly screening series in the country. Founded in 1999, the programming features favorites from past festivals, Hollywood revivals, filmmaker retrospectives and sneak preview and word of mouth screenings of upcoming releases. For more information about Outfest see www.outfest.org.

Some evenings are in the 78 seat Steven Spielberg Theatre. Those films will screen twice the same night.

Discuss this series with other film fans on:
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January

WALK ON THE WILD SIDE, 1962, Sony Repertory, 114 min. Overseen by director Edward Dmytryk and co-written by John Fante from Nelson Algren’s novel, this could have been a masterpiece. But the truly offbeat casting sent this guilty pleasure in a campier direction. Depression era vagrant Dove (Laurence Harvey) hitchhikes to New Orleans in search of his lost love, Hallie (Capucine). Along the way, he runs into homeless reprobate, Kitty Twist (Jane Fonda) and Mexican café owner, Teresina (Anne Baxter) – both of whom fall for our heartbroken hero. Arriving in the Big Easy, Harvey is crushed to find paramour Capucine a love slave in the Doll House, a brothel run by lesbian madam, Jo (Barbara Stanwyck). Since it was the early sixties when this was made, the franker elements are toned down, but it is more than clear what is going on – Stanwyck’s character is as obsessed with Capucine as Harvey. Despite the occasionally overripe delivery, WALK remains marvelously entertaining, perhaps even more so today than on its original release. Saul Bass supplied the cat-prowling-a-dark-alley titles, perhaps his most memorable, set to Elmer Bernstein’s equally famous and indelible theme. Look for Juanita Moore (IMITATION OF LIFE) and an uncredited Lee Marvin in small roles.

PUCCINI FOR BEGINNERS, 2005, 81 min. Dir. Maria Maggenti. In this charming New York story centered on a bisexual love triangle, Allegra (Elizabeth Reaser), a writer and opera aficionado, loves but can’t commit to her girlfriend, Samantha (Juliane Nicholson). Samantha leaves her, bouncing back to her ex-boyfriend/soon-to-be fiancé. Allegra has a rebound of her own - a drunken flirtation with handsome philosophy professor Phillip (Justin Kirk) that turns into a full-fledged affair. Allegra is struggling with the idea of dating a man when she meets Grace (Gretchen Mol), an irresistibly beautiful, recently single and straight woman. Equally enchanted by Phillip and Grace, Allegra juggles secret relationships with both of them - but little does she know that Phillip and Grace have a connection of their own. Maria Maggenti, director of the beloved THE INCREDIBLY TRUE ADVENTURES OF TWO GIRLS IN LOVE, combines delectable wit and wry humor in this sophisticated screwball comedy with all the twists and turns and drama of classic Puccini.

FEBRUARY

OUTFEST WEDNESDAYS

PINK NARCISSUS, 1971, 70 min. Dir. Jim Bidgood. The Outfest 25^{th Anniversary retrospective film series starts with this legendary erotic art film which played as a midnight screening in the 1985 festival (then called the L.A. International Gay & Lesbian Film/Video Festival and taking place at the Four Star Theater on Wilshire Blvd.). Blurring the genre distinctions between the two traditions of gay avant-garde cinema and gay male pornography, PINK NARCISSUS is a dream-like and sensual series of fantasies centering on a handsome man, alternately taken with his own beauty and jarred by the realities of street life.}

101 MUST-SEE MOVIES FOR GAY MEN. We know what makes THE BOYS IN THE BAND a gay movie. But why is MOMMIE DEAREST gay? Or FIGHT CLUB? Or JACKASS? Author and journalist Alonso Duralde provides a glimpse into how he crafted the list for his book, 101 Must-See Movies For Gay Men. Through images and discussion, Duralde will demonstrate that a movie can be queer without having any specific homosexual content. Whether it’s the art direction, the liberties taken with gender, or the perhaps contradictory notions that "gay men love watching strong women" while they also "love watching strong women fall on their faces," there are many different reasons these films should be embraced. Join Duralde as he discusses a broad range of favorites including BOOM!, SHOWGIRLS, VALLEY OF THE DOLLS, THE WOMEN, TONGUES UNTIED, DOG DAY AFTERNOON, MAHOGANY, SWOON, FEMALE TROUBLE, BOUND, HEDWIG AND THE ANGRY INCH, and many more.

MARCH

FOR THE LOVE OF DOLLY, 2005, 56 min. Dir. Tai Ulhmann. For nearly 40 years, Dolly Parton has sung her way into the hearts and minds of millions of people – but few are as devoted as the fans featured in this clever, accomplished documentary. The film takes viewers on an intimate ride not only through Dollywood but also into the psyches of her most fiercely loyal fans. Here they reveal why Dolly’s rags-to-riches story has transformed their lives – and those of many others. Plus the short: "Pro-Choice," 2006, 4 min. Dir. David Jahn. After reading the headline "GAYS MAKE CHOICE", Danny and Larry pose the question to each other. "When did you make the choice?" For Danny, it was shortly after he made the choice to be right-handed. As for Larry, after he chose to be black. Phil LaMarr, Patrick Bristow, Mindy Sterling, and David Jahn star in this clever short which pokes fun at the idea that being gay is a choice.

DAMNED IF YOU DON’T, 1987, 42 min. Originally screened in Outfest 1988, Su Friedrich investigates the themes and connections between women, sexuality, personal relationships and religion in an innovative and graceful film that addresses a taboo subject: a young nun and her sexual attraction to another woman.

HIDE AND SEEK, 1996, 63 min. Winner of the OUTstanding Documentary Feature in 1997, HIDE AND SEEK explores the fertile terrain of lesbian childhood and prepubescence in a 12-year-old girl living in Brooklyn in the mid-1960’s. Discussion following with director, Su Friedrich. IN COLLABORATION WITH REDCAT

Networks presents: LESBIAN SEX AND SEXUALITY, 2007, 90 min. Dir. Katherine Linton, Award winning filmmaker Katherine Linton offers an unblinking and authentic look inside the world of lesbian culture in this provocative new documentary series, where the subjects of lesbian sexuality and desire are celebrated. In a nation where sexuality in general is taboo, lesbian sex, lust and sexual representation are even more marginalized. By visiting writers, academics and "sexperts," and going inside sex shops, erotic dance clubs and lesbian-owned porn companies, this series goes beyond mass appeal to find out what really turns on lesbians and perhaps any woman who has ever had a same-sex fantasy.

BURNT MONEY (PLATA QUEMADA), 2000, 125 min. Dir. Marcelo Pineyro. This torrid crime thriller from Argentina – a sort of gay BONNIE AND CLYDE – is likewise an incendiary depiction of desperate and explosive passions. Notorious bank robbers and lovers Nene (Leonardo Sbaraglia) and Angel (Eduardo Noriega) – known as "the twins" for their matching and stunning good looks – have reached a dizzying pinnacle in their career and relationship. Preparing for their greatest heist, they are beset with anxieties. When breaches of security jeopardize their safety, the threat of the authorities and their bullets proves just the fuel to re-ignite their burning love. Based on a fantastic true story, BURNT MONEY scorches the screen with action, drama and erotic passion.

SMALL TOWN GAY BAR, 2005, 81 min. Dir. Malcolm Ingram. If you lived in small-town Mississippi, you could risk your life meeting friends for a drink at the local gay bar. That is exactly what happens in small towns in the northeastern part of that state, as you’ll witness in this insightful, courageous examination of small-town gay life. An enchanting tribute to the brave, creative and passionate owners and patrons of these establishments, where just existing can be a triumph. Winner for Outstanding Documentary Feature, Outfest 2006. Discussion with the director and producer Kevin Smith.

MAY

IN COLLABORATION WITH: Women on a Roll

THE ADVENTURES OF PRISCILLA, QUEEN OF THE DESERT, 1994, 103 min. Dir. Stephen Elliot. We revisit this beloved fun and bawdy road movie-cum-musical originally screened in the 1994 festival. Bernadette (Terence Stamp), Tick (Hugo Weaving) and Adam (Guy Pearce) each have reasons for wanting to leave the safety of Sydney. Christening their battered tour bus "Priscilla," these wickedly funny "showgirls" head for the Australian outback where their spectacular adventures are more than matched by their spectacular outfits. In celebration of THE ADVENTURES OF PRISCILLA, QUEEN OF THE DESERT Extra Frills Edition DVD release, come dressed as your favorite character for a chance to strut your stuff and win some fabulous prizes!

JUNE

OUTFEST’S 7^th ANNUAL QUEER SHORTS

For the 7th year, Outfest and The American Cinematheque proudly collaborate on a program of sexy, hilarious, innovative, and irreverent queer shorts. Featuring: Jo Gell and Robyn Paterson's "Disposable" (8 min.) On her way to Las Vegas, a woman takes a gamble on the pretty hitchhiker she picks up. Dave O'Brien's "Straight Boys" (15 min.) College boy Ben is crushing out on his cute straight roommate, but how does his roommate feel about him? Harriet Storm's "Kaden" (8 min.) A moving doc on a female to male transexual. Andy Blubaugh's "Hello, Thanks" (8 min.) Andy searches for romance in the world of personal ads, but has a love affair with the words themselves instead. Mary Thompson's "What Hot Guy?" (4 min.) A woman wakes up after a night of partying and asks this question. Isold Uggadottir's "Family Reunion" (19 min.) A young Icelandic woman tries to keep her girlfriend in New York City a secret when she returns to Reykjavik for a family event. David Quantic's "Heart" (8 min.) Dave appropriates the classic Heart song, "All I Wanna Do Is Make Love to You." Peter Saller's "Sugar In The Blood" (Zucker Im Blut) (13 min.) Anna plans to cheat on her girlfriend—all she needs to find is a sexy girl. Rick Ziegler & Michael Trull's "Small Talk at the Bathhouse...The Roids Vs. The Crombies (6 min.) Gay rivals verbally throw down at the gym. Program compiled by Kimberly Yutani and Andrew Crane. Discussion following the screening with filmmakers Mary Thompson, David Quantic, Dave O'Brien, Rick Ziegler, Michael Trull. Program compiled by Kim Yutani & Andrew P. Crane.

WIGSTOCK: THE MOVIE, 1995, MGM Repertory, 80 min. Dir. Barry Shils. Wigstock, New York's annual drag festival, described as "Woodstock without bad hair," is captured in all its glamorous glory in this wildly fun and campy documentary. Follow the rehearsals, behind-the-scenes antics, and unforgettable performances of Joey Arias, Alexis Arquette, Jackie Beat, RuPaul, Deee-lite, Crystal Waters, Mistress Formika and Lypsinka in this fabulous extravaganza. Discussion following screening with director Barry Shils and performers Alexis Arquette, Jackie Beat, Holly Woodlawn. POST-EVENT RECEPTION HOSTED BY: ABSOLUT

BOYS’ SHORTS, 88 min. In these sexy, fun and darkly entertaining boys’ shorts, we see the hilarious terrors of gay childhood, an Internet hook-up with unexpected motivation and what happens when you hate musicals. You might wonder if there’s hope for a gay Lothario, and sometimes you’ll see that when you go home, the end is just the beginning. Stewart Schill’s "I Hate Musicals" (20 min.) A man who hates musicals is cursed to sing them; Jamie Travis’ "The Saddest Boy In The World" (14 min.) Nine-year-old Timothy Higgins is the saddest boy in the world; Michaline Babich’s "Solace" (14 min.) An online hookup illuminates the complexities of a domestic relationship; Mark Christopher’s "Heartland" (12 min.) A Columbia anthropology student finds himself back home with his original tribe; Soman Chainani’s "Kali Ma" (15 min.) A suburban Indian mother delivers her own brand of vigilante justice when she finds out her son is being bullied; Jason Bushman’s "Serene Hunter" (13 min.) A randy gay Parisian moves in with his new boyfriend - just as an old flame from Los Angeles comes back into town.

SEPTEMBER

OUTFEST WEDNESDAYS

Winner: Outfest 2007 Grand Jury Award for US Dramatic Feature & Best Actors in a Feature Film

25 CENT PREVIEW, 2007, 90 min. Dir. Cyrus Amini. Edgy and brutally honest, Cyrus Amini's gritty cinéma-vérité drama is an unflinching yet compassionate portrait of two young hustlers cruising the Tenderloin district of San Francisco. Marcus, a smoldering dirty blonde surfer-type, is the protégé, best friend and sometimes partner of "DotCom," a seasoned street hustler and aspiring singer. When Marcus's troubled past resurfaces, their lives are soon changed forever. Bristling with authenticity, 25 CENT PREVIEW crescendos to a moving catharsis. Discussion following film with director Cyrus Amini.

FAVORITE GIRLS’ SHORTS In these top-notch award-winning films, girls and women learn to navigate sex, love and relationships. The funny, empowering, and moving stories include unresolved mother-daughter issues, a young girl’s chance encounter with a stranger, and a budding butch’s dual existence in the Bronx. Featuring: Andrea James’ CASTING PEARLS (7 min.), Rebecca Feldman’s MY FIRST TIME DRIVING (18 min.), Christy Wegener’s LONG AGO (14 min.), Nicola Marsh’s LAST EXIT (15 min.), Melanie McGraw’s PITSTOP (12 min.), Dee Rees’ PARIAH (29 min.) - Winner: Outfest 2007 Audience Award and Grand Jury Award for Dramatic Short Film

OCTOBER

SUNNY AND SHARE LOVE YOU, 2007, 100 min. Dir. Matthew Buzzell. Meet twisted Anneka (Michele Mulroney) and sexually fluid Clay (Micah Schraft), former husband-and-wife rock duo Kill the Puppy, in this hilarious mockumentary. While their sordid past is being dredged up, an equally frightful reunion is captured - they reform as Sunny and Share, performing inappropriate songs for children about pedophiles and angry rainbows. Though the highway to hell, part two, seems just around the corner, the duo may just have to hit rock bottom to solidify their love again. Discussion following with actors Michele Mulroney, Micah Schraft.

Tuesday, October 16 – 7:30 PM

NINE LIVES, 2004, 97 min. Dir. Dean Howell. Based on the acclaimed play, "Complications," by Michael Kearns, NINE LIVES is an explosive exploration into the lives of nine strangers whose passions suddenly intersect in ways none of them imagined. What results is a sexually charged, provocative yet surprising story of eight gay men dealing with the intricacies of intimacy and love. Starring Dennis Christopher (CHARIOTS OF FIRE, BREAKING AWAY), Debra Wilson ("Mad TV") and award-winning stage actor Michael Kearns, NINE LIVES encompasses the private fears and desires we all share. Discussion following with director Dean Howell and cast members.

OUTFEST WEDNESDAYS

25^th Anniversary Screenings

HEDWIG AND THE ANGRY INCH, 2000, 88 min. Dir. John Cameron Mitchell. With explosive imagination, wicked humor and a goldmine of original rock 'n' roll, John Cameron Mitchell breaths fierce and fiery air into the onscreen musical with this adaptation of his critically acclaimed off-Broadway hit. Born a boy in Communist East Berlin, Hedwig (Mitchell) always dreamed he'd find his other half and become a big American rock star. So when a handsome American GI promises love and liberation, it seems like a dream come true. But there's a catch - in order to marry and emigrate, Hansel must "leave a little something behind."

SEED OF CHUCKY, 2004, Rogue Pictures, 87 min. Dir. Don Mancini. The killer doll is back! The fifth of the Chucky series introduces Glen, the orphan doll offspring of the irrepressible Chucky and his equally twisted bride Tiffany. When production starts on a movie detailing the urban legend of his parents’ lethal exploits, Glen heads for Hollywood, where he brings his bloodthirsty parents back from the dead. Chucky can’t believe that his child doesn’t want to walk in his murdering footsteps, and starstruck Tiffany can’t believe that the movie will star her favorite actress, Jennifer Tilly (playing herself), who soon becomes an unwitting hostess to the family in more ways than one. Also features John Waters (in a scene paying homage to FEMALE TROUBLE!). Co-starring Brad Dourif (voicing Chucky). Discussion following with actress Jennifer Tilly and director Don Mancini.

NOVEMBER

EAST SIDE STORY, 2006, 88 min. Dir. Carlos Portugal. This heartfelt gay love triangle takes on family dynamics, culture clashes, sexuality and gentrification in East L.A -- all with a strong dose of humor. Young, ambitious Diego helps his grandmother run the family restaurant while carrying on a clandestine relationship with local realtor Pablo, who is equally conflicted about his sexuality. When new neighbors Wesley and Jonathon move in, the attraction between Wesley and Diego is immediate and electric, forcing both men to re-examine their lives in this entertaining comedic drama.

Presented by Outfest

To purchase tickets for ALL Outfest Fusion Programs please click here. For more information see the Outfest website. (Tickets are not available from the American Cinematheque. Tickets will be sold at the Egyptian Theatre on the day of the shows, but no advance tickets are available from the Cinematheque. Cinematheque member discounts will apply)

Fusion 2007 is the 5th Los Angeles LGBT People of Color Film Festival. As the only festival of its kind, Fusion is a unique place for audiences and artists. This consciously multiracial, gender inclusive arts event blends film, music, spoken word, performance, panels and workshops. It's a place here people of color are at the center and where the sharing of diverse arts forms and identities is celebrated.

Series compiled by Kimberly Yutani, assisted by Roiya Zahara Said and George Reyes.

OPENING GALA AND SHORT FILMS

Approximately 79 min. Join us in launching our 5^th edition of Fusion with these dynamic stories of inspiring personal journeys and the exuberance of youth. These acclaimed short films include the Outfest two-time award-winning short, Dee Rees’ "Pariah" (2006, 27 min.). Also screening are Cinzia’s "The Matchmaker" (2006, 10 min.); Cherien Dabis’ "Make A Wish" (2006, 12 min.); Nick Oceano’s "El Primo" (2007, 15 min.); Soman Chainani’s "Kali Ma" (2007, 15 min.). Tickets

ROME AND JULIET, Dir. Connie S.A. Macatuno, 2007, Phillippines, 135 min. Juliet, a conservative pre-school teacher, soon to be married to a handsome, successful man falls unexpectedly in love with Rome, her wedding planner. Tickets

"In The Fire" (En El Fuego) (2007, USA/Peru, 35 min.) Director Dante Alencastre portrays transgender women who change the status quo for the LGBT community in Peru while Priscilla Brasil’s "The Daughters of Chiquita" (2006, Brazil, 52 min.) documents Chiquita's Party, a spectacular annual gay pride event held amidst the largest Catholic celebration in Brazil. Tickets

QUEER WOMEN OF COLOR SHORTS

Approximately 66 min. At once graceful and rude, these films are lyrical portraits of the kaleidoscopic experiences, fantasies, and provocations of queer women of color who take hold of their freedom and create poetry for the future. Charlotte Young Bowens’ "Seventy Times Seven" (2007, 7 min.); Letesa Bruce’s "Slang It Like You Own It" (2007, 7 min.); Erin Wood’s "The Saint" (2006, 6 min.); Sara Beth Harris’ "Wallow" (2007, 9 min.); Jolie Harris’ "60 Years of the Same" (2007, 11 min.); Kiki Zerrudos’ "It Takes A Village…" (2007, 8 min.); Vanessa Huang’s "Pray Ting Ai Fly" (2007, 6 min.); Monica Enriquez’s "Escrito" (2007, 2 min.); Kim Alvarenga’s "Fashion Resistance to Militarism" (2006, 10 min.). Tickets

DON’T GO, 2007, USA, 60 min. Dir. Amber Sharp. With its unexpected soap operatic twists, DON’T GO beautifully balances intrigue and romance with humor and pathos in the lives of a group of sexy, diverse characters (cast includes Guinevere Turner and Nisha Ganatra) living in a Los Angeles fourplex. Plus shorts: Maurice Lopez’s "The Pretty Boy King of Hollywood" (2007, 18 min.) and Camrin Pitts "Gay Bash" (2007, 4 min.).  Tickets

VERA, 1987, Brazil, 85 min. Dir. Sergio Toledo. A special screening of this archival print, VERA is a remarkable, moving story way ahead of its time. Before "gender queer" entered our vocabulary, there was Bauer, born as Vera. An orphan, poet, and now professional, in love with a woman, Bauer must grapple with issues of masculinity and gender expression. In Portuguese with English subtitles. Tickets

STARRBOOTY, 2007, USA, 83 min. Dir. Mike Ruiz. In this campy and salacious exploitation flick, legendary drag glamazon RuPaul stars as super-model/secret agent Starrbooty who realizes she must go undercover as a street hooker and go "all the way" to rescue her kidnapped niece. Plus short: Ho Tam’s "Discopedia" (2007, 9 min.). Q Rating – Explicit Sex Tickets

THE DL CHRONICLES, 2007, USA, 80 min. Dir. Deondray Gossett & Quincy LeNear. In the latest episodes of the smart, provocative series THE DL CHRONICLES, Boo and Mark are a pair of gorgeous men who live secret sexual lives. Tickets

LOVE MY LIFE, 2006, Japan, 96 min. Dir. Koji Kawano. Adapted from the manga of the same name by popular female writer Ebine Yamaji, LOVE MY LIFE is the story of two beautiful college girls whose almost perfect relationship runs into some trouble. Plus short: Michael Wormser’s "Shrimp & Cookies" (2006, 4 min.). Tickets

CROSSCURRENT: FUSION SHORTS

Approximately 82 min. In this program of some of the finest Fusion shorts this year, we meet a tough lady boxer, a conflicted doorman, two men on a hook-up, and a charming budding lesbian. Vanessa Libertad Garcia’s "A Two Woman Act" (2007, 11 min.); David Maurice Gil’s "Just" (2007, 12 min.); Sharon Barnes’ "Fighter" (2007, 11 min.); Etienne Kallos’ "Doorman" (2007, 18 min.); Kent Monkman’s "Shooting Geronimo" (2007, 11 min.); Sung-eun Lee’s "I’m Jin-Young" (2007, 19 min.). Tickets

MUXES -- AUTHENTIC INTREPID SEEKERS OF DANGER (MUXES -- AUTÉNTICAS INTRÉPIDAS BUSCADORES DE PELIGRO), 2006, Mexico, 102 min., Dir. Alejandra Islas. Out, proud and undeniably inspiring, the muxes are gay Zapotec Indians from Juchitán, Mexico, a queer paradise with a fearless community of gender transgressors who thrive amongst their straight brothers and sisters. Tickets

WATER FLOWING TOGETHER, 2007, USA, 77 min. Dir. Gwendolen Cates. This stunning documentary chronicles the life of gay Navajo Indian/Puerto Rican New York City Ballet principal dancer, Jock Soto, and explores his connection to his heritage and follows him through the last two years of his illustrious career. Discussion following with Jock Soto. Tickets

DECEMBER

OUTFEST WEDNESDAYS

Sneak Preview!

THE WALKER, 2007, THINKFilm, 108 min. Dir. Paul Schrader. In this contemporary drama, Woody Harrelson diverts from type in his acclaimed performance as Carter Page, a popular Washington D.C. gay confidant and "walker" to some of the capitol’s leading socialites. Kristin Scott Thomas, Lauren Bacall, and Lily Tomlin co-star as the privileged wives of powerful men who find solace in Carter’s wit. When he takes the fall in a murder scandal, Carter discovers just how deep betrayal lies behind the glittery facade. Suddenly this well-connected-man-about-town is a pariah, hounded by the police and forced to clear his name. [also screens 12/1 – Aero]

OUTFEST WEDNESDAYS

Newly Restored Print!

ALL ABOUT EVE, 1950, 20^th Century Fox, 138 min. A scintillating showbiz yarn laced with bitchiness and back-stabbing, director Joseph L. Mankiewicz's multi-Oscar-winning masterpiece pits middle-aged Broadway mega-star Margo Channing (glorious Bette Davis in her greatest role) against smooth-talking, two-faced wannabe Eve Harrington (a perfectly evil Anne Baxter). A timid, mousy fan who ingratiates her way into Margo's inner circle, ambitious Eve wastes no time stealing Margo's spotlight and her man (Gary Merrill – Davis’ real-life spouse from 1950 to 1960). Never fear: Margo takes nothing lying down, and Bette's arsenal of immortal lines is unmatched - not to mention costuming and make-up that cemented her place as a drag icon. A superb supporting cast (including Celeste Holm, George Sanders, Marilyn Monroe and the hilarious Thelma Ritter) brings New York's theater set to life with razor-sharp precision and dialogue that glitters with sophistication and cynicism. If you've never seen it before, "Fasten your seatbelts...it’s going to be a bumpy night."