Faith and Religion  

Join us for a virtual film discussion! View the films at home (check https://www.justwatch.com for options) and join us for a Zoom discussion led by Bob Kagan.

Monday, 11/20: First Reformed, Directed by Paul Schrader. Ethan Hawke gives a tour de force performance as a priest who confronts a crisis of faith in light of personal tragedies and a dwindling church congregation. This critically praised film is certain to provoke a lively discussion.  Available from the library and for rent on Amazon.

Monday, 11/27: The Master, Directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, Featuring outstanding performances by Joaquin Phoenix and Phillip Seymour Hoffman this epic tale is loosely based on the life of Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard. One reviewer says of the film, “If there were ever a movie to cause the lame to walk and the blind to see, The Master may just be it.”  Available from the library and for rent on Amazon.

Monday, 12/4: Spring, Summer, Fall Winter, Spring, Directed by Korean Director Kim Ki-Duk, this inspirational uses the symbolism of the passing seasons to tell the story of a young Buddhist monk’s evolution from Innocence to Love, Evil to Enlightenment, and ultimately to Rebirth.  Available from the library and for rent on Amazon.

Monday, 12/11: Eyes Wide Open, Directed by Israeli born Haim Tabakman this film explores the conflict when Aaron, a devout family man, develops feelings for a young, male Yeshiva student. Universal themes of religious orthodox teachings intersecting with the LGBTQ community make for a provocative film.  Available from the library and for rent on Amazon.

Bob Kagan was Chair of the Communication Department at Manchester Community College for 30 years. In his “unretirement” he teaches Communication courses at Central Connecticut State University and the University of Hartford. He has been leading film discussions at the Avon Free Public Library for the past 7 years.

Please register once for the series, even if you can’t attend all of the sessions. Zoom links will be sent out before the event.

Sponsored by the Friends of the Avon Library.