WEST PLAINS, Mo. – Imagine flying carpets, an iconic actor riding across desert sands, and a little girl who dreams of simply riding a bike. Now, sprinkle in some tasty ethnic food, several Academy Awards and engaging discussions, and you’re starting to get a picture of what this year’s February Film Series has in store for the community.
“Central Asia and the Mideast” is the theme of the 16th annual film series, which will be hosted by the University/Community Programs Department at Missouri State University-West Plains during the month of February. All films are shown for free at 6:30 p.m. Thursday evenings in the West Plains Civic Center theater.
“This year’s theme was inspired by Missouri State-West Plains’ selection for its common reader, which is The Kite Runner, a bestselling novel set in Afghanistan; however, it’s also very timely considering world events in those regions, ” said Jennifer Moore, coordinator of U/CP theater and events programming. “One of the things we hope to do with this series, especially as part of an educational institution whose mission focuses on public affairs, is foster greater understanding among local residents of those places and global issues that continue to impact us daily. We hope these films will aid in that effort.
“In addition, we’re thrilled to be expanding the film series this year to include a free reception before the final film that will let attendees sample hors d’oeuvres from the region and view a live display of traditional attire,” she added.
The traditional clothing items are on loan from community members, Moore said, and will be modeled on a red carpet by Missouri State-West Plains students in the civic center lobby prior to the showing of the final film, “The Kite Runner,” on Feb. 25. The reception starts at 5:30 p.m., and the film will follow at 6:30.
The series kicks off Feb. 4 with the showing of “Aladdin,” Disney’s beloved animated classic starring Robin Williams as Genie. Disney character dress up is optional. The film is rated G.
The series continues Feb. 11 with the epic “Lawrence of Arabia” starring Peter O’Toole and Omar Sharif. The film, winner of seven Academy Awards, tells the story of a young, British intelligence officer in the Middle East during World War I. The film is rated PG.
On Feb. 18, the award-winning foreign film “Wadjda” takes center stage. Part comedy, part drama, this film tells the story of a spunky, 10-year-old Saudi Arabian girl who wants to defy the patriarchal society in which she lives by simply riding a bike. This heartwarming film shows the limits placed on girls in Saudi Arabia through Wadjda’s quirky determination. This film is shown with English subtitles. “Wadjda” is rated PG.
The series will conclude Feb. 25 with the “Journey Through Mideast and Central Asia” reception and fashion show, followed by the film “The Kite Runner.” The film is about two unlikely friends, a Pashtun boy and a Hazara boy, and their journey through the trials of trauma, war and atonement. The film is rated PG-13.
“We think this reception will be a fun and unforgettable experience for our community,” said Moore. “The film series committee is proud that the series will, once again, have something for everyone to enjoy.”
Each film showing will be followed with a discussion session facilitated by a university faculty or staff member.
For more information about the annual film series, call the U/CP Department office at 417-255-7966.