January Screenings
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For years I perhaps snobbishly avoided this film, largely because of the imagery on the posters and its label of ‘fantasy.’ Eventually I decided to see what all the fuss was about and it blew me away. It has fantasy elements for sure, as seen through the eyes of young Ofelia but Guillermo del Toro’s work is a haunting and visually mesmerizing film that blends dark fantasy with historical drama.
Set in post-Civil War Spain in 1944, it follows Ofelia, who escapes into a mystical labyrinth to avoid the brutal reality of her world dominated by her sadistic stepfather, Captain Vidal, brilliantly played by Sergi López. In fact, I’ve rarely been as scared by a character in a film. A great film that outlines human capacity for both cruelty and kindness. Come and see what all the fuss is about for yourself. |
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We don’t deliberately avoid showing comedies at HVC, it's just that good ones are really hard to find. This laid-back film from Lynn Shelton is a well-timed reminder that Americans can indeed poke fun at themselves, with delightful results.
It follows a pawnshop owner Mel, (played by Marc Maron, who also provides the deep South bluesy soundtrack), who becomes entangled in a bizarre conspiracy involving Civil War truthers. Couple Mary and Cynthia inherit an antique sword they believe could prove the South won the Civil War and Mel agrees to help them sell the piece, leading to a series of encounters with colourful characters. Blending humour with social satire it shows real characters reacting normally and unheroically under pressure. |
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I’ve only gone and done it. I’d planned to show Magnolia as my last film, when I hand over the reins of HVC, but I thought: ‘what if I get hit by a bus?’ In my opinion the greatest film ever made and perfect in every way. Writer/director Paul Thomas Anderson admitted he is resigned to never making another film as good as this, and he made There Will be Blood, Boogie Nights and The Phantom Thread.
It centres around seven intertwined stories in the San Fernando valley, stories of flawed, complex characters struggling with trauma, regret and the desire for redemption. A stella cast, (Philip Seymour Hoffman, William H. Macy, Julianne Moore, Tom Cruise, John C. Reilly) who produce pitch-perfect performances and a brilliant score by Aimee Mann, it’s a raw, emotionally intense film, boldly examining the pain of human connections, particularly with fathers. The ultimate ‘come and see what all the fuss is about’ film. |
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One of those films you know you are in safe hands from the start and that you won’t be sent on an emotional rollercoaster.
Wim Wenders’ Perfect Days is a quiet, contemplative exploration of solitude and routine, following a Tokyo restroom cleaner named Hirayama. Through his meticulous daily rituals, we see beauty in ordinary moments: cleaning, listening to music, and taking in small details of city life. Koji Yakusho’s understated performance reveals Hirayama’s inner life without words, letting his actions convey depth and quiet resilience as well as simple dignity. A perfect tonic for those who came to Magnolia two days earlier, it’s a moving meditation on finding peace and purpose in small, often overlooked moments. |
February Screenings
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This film from Brazil really plays to our British sensibility, with our historic class system and politeness.
Val is a loyal housemaid to a wealthy São Paulo family, but when her estranged daughter, Jéssica arrives, her independent spirit and unwillingness to adhere to social boundaries disrupt the household’s unspoken rules. Directed by Anna Muylaert, it delves into class divisions and family dynamics and Regina Casé delivers a standout performance as Val, whose personal journey highlights the sacrifices and complexities of maternal love. The sensitive direction and subtle social critique make the film a poignant, insightful look at inequality, family bonds, and the courage to seek change. |
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Shot in Sussex, we are delighted to welcome producer Simon Hasler to HVC for a Q&A after the screening and, if schedule allows, the director Elliott Hasler, former Hurst College pupil.
Vindication Swim tells the inspiring story of Mercedes Gleitze, a young woman in 1920s England who defies societal norms to pursue her dream of becoming the first woman to swim the English Channel. The film captures her resilience against not only physical and environmental challenges but also the intense gender biases of her time. With evocative period details and a moving central performance, Vindication Swim explores themes of determination, empowerment, and the fight for equality. Hasler’s direction brings an intimate and heartfelt perspective to Mercedes’ journey, making it a tribute to both courage and perseverance. |
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After my first attempt to screen a film in the vampire genre, Let the Right One In, produced precisely zero ticket sales, I was trepidacious about putting this on. However, it’s essentially a love story, very funny in places and a completely fresh take, as the title would suggest.
It follows Sasha, a young vampire who doesn’t want to kill and her meeting with Paul, a disillusioned boy who would rather not live. Their unconventional bond explores themes of mortality, loneliness, and the search for meaning in life, all underscored by quirky humour and poignant moments. I watched it twice in four days and immediately wanted others to see it. Touching, funny and unique. |
