May Films
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On Becoming A Guinea Fowl
Wednesday, Apr. 30
Friday, May 2
2 and 7:30 p.m.
Rated PG-13, 99 min.
Directed by Rungano Nyoni, 2024, Zambia/UK, Partially Subtitled
When a beloved uncle dies suddenly, a Zambian family gathers to mourn—but old wounds and buried secrets quickly rise to the surface. As the rituals unfold, a young woman begins to question the official narrative surrounding his death and confronts the culture of silence that surrounds abuse. On Becoming A Guinea Fowl blends dark humor and poignant critique, offering a striking examination of grief, complicity, and generational trauma. With bold visual storytelling and sharp dialogue, the film challenges taboos and reframes the idea of what it means to speak the truth in the face of denial.
The Friend
Wednesday, May 7
Friday, May 9
2 and 7:30 p.m.
Rated R, 123 min.
Directed by Scott McGehee and David Siegel, 2024, United States
Based on Sigrid Nunez’s 2018 novel, The Friend follows Iris (Naomi Watts), a solitary writer in New York City who inherits a Great Dane named Apollo after the suicide of her close friend and mentor, Walter (Bill Murray). As Iris navigates her grief and the challenges of caring for a massive dog in a small apartment, she forms unexpected connections with Walter's family and other women from his past. The film delves into themes of loss, companionship, and the healing power of unexpected relationships, highlighting the transformative impact of love and loyalty.
Bob Trevino Likes It
Wednesday, May 14
Friday, May 16
2 and 7:30 p.m.
Rated PG-13, 102 min.
Directed by Tracie Laymon, 2024. United States
Inspired by true events, Bob Trevino Likes It follows Lily Trevino (Barbie Ferreira), a young woman seeking her estranged father online. Instead, she connects with another man sharing her father's name, Bob Trevino (John Leguizamo), leading to an unexpected and life-changing friendship. As their bond deepens, both characters confront past traumas and find healing through their newfound connection. The film offers a heartfelt exploration of family, identity, and the serendipitous relationships that can redefine our lives.
The Ballad of Wallis Island
Wednesday, May 21
Friday, May 23
2 and 7:30 p.m.
Rated PG-13, 100 min.
Directed by James Griffiths, 2025, United Kingdom
Set on a remote Welsh island, The Ballad of Wallis Island centers on Charles (Tim Key), an eccentric lottery winner who orchestrates a private concert to reunite his favorite folk duo, Mortimer-McGwyer. As the musicians, former lovers Nell (Carey Mulligan) and Herb (Tom Basden), come together, old tensions and unresolved issues resurface. The film blends humor and drama, offering a poignant look at ambition, nostalgia, and the complexities of rekindled relationships.
The Penguin Lessons
Wednesday, May 28
Friday, May 30
2 and 7:30 p.m.
Rated PG-13, 110 min.
Directed by Peter Cattaneo, 2024, United Kingdom/Spain, Partially subtitled
Based on Tom Michell's memoir, The Penguin Lessons tells the story of Tom Michell (Steve Coogan), a British teacher in 1970s Argentina who rescues an oil-covered penguin during a trip to Uruguay. Unable to release the bird back into the wild, he brings it to his boarding school, where the penguin becomes an unlikely catalyst for change. Amidst the backdrop of political unrest, the film highlights themes of compassion, resilience, and the unexpected ways in which animals can impact human lives.
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.
