WEST PLAINS, Mo. – Missouri State University-West Plains’ annual film series will open at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 6, with the showing “The Princess Bride” at the West Plains Civic Center theater.

The theme for this year’s series is “A Novel Idea” and features films whose stories originated from literature, organizers said.  Admission is free.

Released in 1987 and based on William Goldman’s novel of the same name, “The Princess Bride” is staged as a book read by a grandfather, portrayed by Peter Falk, to his ill grandson, played by Fred Savage.  Falk’s character assures a romance-weary Savage that the book is much more than a simpering love story.  It’s full of action and adventure, too, as the hero has to endure a fencing duel, torture, death, giants and pirates to save the damsel in distress.

In addition to Falk and Savage, the movie stars Cary Elwes, Robin Wright, Mandy Patinkin, Christopher Guest, Chris Sarandon and Andre the Giant, and is directed by Rob Reiner.  The film is rated PG.

Dennis Lancaster, interim dean of academic affairs, will facilitate discussion following the film’s showing.

This is the 15th year for the film series, hosted by the University/Community Programs (U/CP) Department.  Movies will be shown at 6:30 p.m. every Thursday night in February.

For more information about the annual film series, call the U/CP Department office at 417-255-7966.