December Films
Click on the film images to go to the film's page! From there you can view the film page and purchase tickets online!
Click Here to download the current month's film list.
Conclave
Wednesday, December 18th
Friday, December 20th
2 and 7:30 p.m.
Rated PG, 120 minutes
Directed by Edward Berger, 2024, United States/United Kingdom
Conclave is a 2024 mystery thriller adapted from Robert Harris's 2016 novel. The film centers on Cardinal Thomas Lawrence (Ralph Fiennes), who oversees the secretive papal conclave following the sudden death of the pope. As cardinals from around the world convene to elect a new leader, Lawrence uncovers hidden scandals and political machinations among the candidates, including the liberal Cardinal Bellini (Stanley Tucci) and the conservative Cardinal Tedesco (Sergio Castellitto). The narrative delves into themes of faith, power, and morality, culminating in a surprising revelation that challenges traditional doctrines. The film has been praised for its compelling performances and intricate storytelling, offering a thought-provoking exploration of the complexities within the Vatican's corridors of power.
Anora
Thursday, December 26th
Friday, December 27th
2 and 7:30 p.m.
Rated R, 139 minutes
Directed by Sean Baker, 2024, United States
Anora is a romantic comedy-drama directed that follows Ani (Mikey Madison), a young exotic dancer from Brooklyn, who unexpectedly crosses paths with Marcus (Riz Ahmed), a successful tech entrepreneur on the brink of a midlife crisis. Both characters are navigating personal struggles, but the unlikely connection they form sparks an unlikely romance. With sharp wit and a unique visual style, Anora delivers a deep exploration of the modern dating world, self-discovery, and how two people from different worlds can find solace in one another despite their differences.
January Films
Click on the film images to go to the film's page! From there you can view the film page and purchase tickets online!
Click Here to download the current month's film list.
Nightbitch
Thursday, January 2nd
Friday, January 3rd
2 and 7:30 p.m. (Thursday at 7:30 p.m. only)
Rated R, 98 minutes
Directed by Marielle Heller, 2024, United States
Nightbitch is a black comedy/horror film based on Rachel Yoder's 2021 novel. The story follows a former artist, now a stay-at-home mother (Amy Adams), who becomes convinced she's transforming into a dog, symbolizing her struggle with the constraints of motherhood and loss of personal identity. As her physical changes intensify, she grapples with her new reality, leading to darkly comedic and surreal experiences. The film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival where critics lauded Amy Adams for "one of the wildest, most ambitious performances of her career."
A Real Pain
Thursday, January 8th
Friday, January 10th
2 and 7:30 p.m.
Rated R, 89 minutes
Directed by Jesse Eisenberg, 2024, United States
A Real Pain (2024), directed by Jesse Eisenberg, stars Eisenberg and Kieran Culkin as estranged Jewish American cousins David and Benji. The story follows their journey to Poland to honor their late grandmother’s memory and reconnect with their heritage. David, a pragmatic father, and Benji, a free-spirited drifter, clash in humorous and poignant ways as they navigate personal differences and shared history. A Real Pain explores themes of identity, heritage, and family dynamics. Culkin’s raw performance and Eisenberg’s direction have been widely acclaimed, making this a standout film of 2024.
Between the Temples Return Engagement by Popular Demand
Thursday, January 15th
Friday, January 17th
2 and 7:30 p.m.
Rated R, 111 minutes
Directed by Nathan Silver, 2024, United States
Ben (Jason Schwartzman) is a 40-something cantor losing his voice and possibly his faith. Struggling to meet the expectations of his rabbi, congregation, and not one but two Jewish mothers (Caroline Aaron and Dolly De Leon), Ben finds his world turned upside down when his grade school music teacher reenters his life as an adult bat mitzvah student. This warm and anxious comedy from prolific writer/director Nathan Silver explores the complexities of belief, connection, and what it means to be a real mensch.
Queer
Thursday, January 22nd
Friday, January 24th
2 and 7:30 p.m.
Rated R, 135 minutes
Directed by Luca Guadagnino, 2024, United States/United Kingdom
Queer is a period romantic drama based on William S. Burroughs' novella. Set in 1950s Mexico City, the film follows William Lee, portrayed by Daniel Craig, an American expatriate grappling with heroin addiction and his sexuality. Lee becomes infatuated with Eugene Allerton, played by Drew Starkey, a younger American. Their complex relationship leads them on a journey to South America in search of the mythical drug yagé, believed to grant telepathic abilities. The film delves into themes of unrequited love, addiction, and self-discovery. Premiering at the Venice International Film Festival, Queer received critical acclaim, particularly for Craig's performance, which was described as "mesmerizing" and "heartbreaking."
The Fire Inside
Thursday, January 2nd
Friday, January 3rd
2 and 7:30 p.m. (Thursday at 7:30 p.m. only)
Rated PG-13, 109 minutes
Directed by Rachel Morrison, 2024, United States
The Fire Inside is a biographical sports drama that chronicles the journey of Claressa "T-Rex" Shields (Ryan Destiny), a boxer from Flint, Mich., who becomes the first American woman to win an Olympic gold medal in boxing at the 2012 London Olympics. Brian Tyree Henry co-stars as her dedicated coach, Jason Crutchfield. The film explores Shields' relentless determination to overcome personal and systemic challenges, highlighting her resilience and the support from her community.
Munson Film Series is sponsored by M&T Bank and by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature.
