Ideal viewing for the film buff

Film buffs, get your fix. The Nelson Film Society starts its 2010 season this week with weekly movies until October.

From Iran to Germany and France to Bosnia Herzegovina, the society will show films that span cultures, generations and continents. It is an eclectic programme from film-makers who are pushing the boundaries around the world.

"You'll see films you may never have heard of and be surprised how much you enjoy them," says society chairwoman Susanne Williamson. "It is a place for people to come together with a common interest and continues to be popular as we offer exciting alternatives to the Hollywood blockbuster at a much cheaper price."

Although watching movies in the dark may be somewhat a private experience for some, members come early to meet and share refreshments before the film begins.

Society secretary Chris Watson says the highlight of this year's programme will be several screenings of films made by Norman McLaren, a pioneer in animation and experimental film-making. Animation expert from the University of Canterbury Dr Terence Dobson, who has recently published a book about McLaren's work, will introduce the series and answer questions.

Other programmes for 2010 are films from Iran and the Balkans, four recent features from France and five from Germany.

Mr Watson says a key New Zealand film will be Sima Urale's impressive debut feature, Apron Strings. It screened in the 2008 International Film Festival but he says there have been many requests to bring it back.

Another film in the 2009 Festival that did not make it here was the very successful My Winnipeg. "This will delight any Canadian ex-pats with its whimsical and intensely personal look at the film-maker's native city."

With 28 screenings in 2010, full membership of Nelson Film Society costs $80, or $70 concession, which works out at less than $3 a film.

Three-film sampler card memberships are also available at $30, and can be used to purchase full membership by instalments.

• Full details are available at www.nelsonfilmsociety.org.nz For further information, contact Chris Watson, 035457337.

- © Fairfax NZ News