March -- the month in which, whether we are of Irish heritage or simply love the company of those who are, we celebrate St. Patrick's Day. This year, I thought that it might be fun to gather together in our Library Auditorium to watch some movies that take place in Ireland, and that show its people in all of their wonderful diversity.
Whether it's the blarney that's doled out in a scheme to claim prize money, the resolve needed to endure the trials of life, the adherence to custom that complicates the romance of a man and woman, or the belief needed to embrace the folklore of the Irish, these films will, I hope, reinforce for all of us the delightful and often unique character of the Irish people.
The series runs on Friday afternoons, March 9, 16, 23, and 30, 2012 at 2:00 P.M.
Here's the lineup:
March 9 – The Secret of Roan Inish (1994) – A magical tale of a girl whose search for her younger brother brings an Irish legend to life. 102 minutes – Rated PG, for some moments that may be disquieting to children.
March 16 – The Quiet Man (1952) – An American prizefighter (John Wayne) returns to Ireland to forget his past, and falls in love with the fiery sister (Maureen O’Hara) of a brutish neighbor. Directed by John Ford. 129 minutes – Unrated.
March 23 – Waking Ned Devine (1998) – When the lottery winner in a small Irish village dies, two of his friends conspire to hide his death in order to claim the prize money. 91 minutes – Rated PG, for nudity, language and thematic elements.
March 30 -- Dancing at Lughnasa (1998) - Five unmarried sisters make the most of their simple existence in rural Ireland in the 1930s. Starring Meryl Streep. 95 minutes -- Rated PG, for mild language and thematic elements.
I look forward to seeing you all there. Feel free to take part in the wearing of the green; I will be.
Doug Swiszcz
