Deadlines are abound, but don’t worry! If you’re in need of a break from essays, we’ve got you covered. In this feature, we continue to bring you news of all the latest films, special screenings, and student-friendly deals that Harbour Lights has to offer. This week, animals (cute and nocturnal) are abound, in addition to a real cinematic treat for film fans on Sunday.
A Street Cat Named Bob (12A)
This week’s leading film is Roger Spottiswoode’s touching real-life story, A Street Cat Named Bob. Based on the bestselling autobiography of former drug addict James Bowen, a raggedy-looking Luke Treadaway stars as the heroin-addled Bowen, who is moved into sheltered housing in a last-ditch attempt to get him clean. Also taking up residence is an injured feline, whom Bowen names Bob. The pair quickly become inseparable, and Bob – played in the film by the ginger tomcat himself – accompanies Bowen as he applies for work selling The Big Issue and busks around Covent Garden. Read our review here.
Nocturnal Animals (15)
Tom Ford’s latest film, Nocturnal Animals, is still showing this week. Starring Jake Gyllenhaal and Amy Adams, the film follows an LA gallery owner who unexpectedly receives a manuscript from her unsuccessful novelist ex-husband and reads it while her current husband is away on an adulterous weekend. The novel then becomes a film within a film, in which the novelist goes on a road trip with his family and is menaced by a redneck gang. Also starring Isla Fisher, Michael Shannon, Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Ellie Bamber, this is a picturesque thrill-ride that you have to see. Read our review here.
The Light Between Oceans (12A)
Derek Cianfrance’s latest drama, The Light Between Oceans, is also screening this week. Starring Michael Fassbender and Alicia Vikander, the film follows a lightkeeper and his wife who, after years of struggling to conceive, find and adopt a baby that they find in a lifeboat lost at sea. Based on the novel of the same name by M.L. Stedman, this is a deeply affecting film and a must-watch for fans of romantic period dramas. Read our review and our coverage of the film’s press conference here.
I, Daniel Blake (15)
Ken Loach’s latest film, I, Daniel Blake, is still showing this week too. The winner of the prestigious Palme d’Or award at this year’s Cannes Film Festival, the film follows Daniel (Dave Johns), a friendly 59-year-old joiner who is unable to work due to bad health. However when the Department of Work and Pensions overrides the doctor’s report and refuses to award him benefits, Daniel is forced to look for a job even though, on doctor’s orders, he cannot accept any work. Highlighting the bleak prospects of Britain’s current welfare system, whilst also providing glimpses of humour and hope, this is a must-watch.
Alan Bennett’s Diaries Live (12A)
There isn’t a Discover Tuesday this week, but on Wednesday you can discover a lot more about renowned playwright Alan Bennett in this live broadcast. The unmissable event takes a candid look into the mind of Britain’s best-loved writer, who, at 82, shows no signs of slowing down. The event will include a screening of Alan Bennett’s Diaries, a new film about the writer, followed by an exclusive Q&A with Alan Bennett from his local library in Primrose Hill.
Napoleon (PG)
This week’s Vintage Sunday is a real treat for film fans, as Harbour Lights are hosting a one-off cinematic experience in collaboration with the BFI. Abel Gance’s heroic depiction of the rise of Napoleon Bonaparte in Napoleon is an undisputed cinema landmark. This new digital restoration presents the silent masterpiece in all of its grandiose glory, with rich velvety blacks combining with gorgeously coloured tints and tones – if you’re serious about film, you can’t afford to miss this.
Student tickets range from £7.00 – £9.50. For more information, visit the Harbour Lights website or call the Box Office on 0871 902 5733.
