Three Reasons to Get Your Movie On in Ojai
Long ago, during the cinematically bleak period we refer to as the late ’80s, a team of Ojai-dwelling cinephiles got together and laid the groundwork for what would become the Ojai Film Society (OFS). Today the group is going stronger than ever, screening a number of under-the-radar indie flicks, as well a smattering of critically acclaimed, anti-blockbuster movies that never-or only briefly-met wide release fame. Currently setting up shop at the Ojai Playhouse (145 E. Ojai Ave., Ojai) every Sunday afternoon at 4:30 p.m., OFS will be wrapping up the winter season at the close of March. But that doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty to look forward to-including what promises to be an exquisite and exciting springtime lineup. For upcoming flicks, check out the group’s Web site at filmsociety.ojai.net.
1) In Case You Missed It: While the films screened by OFS are as eclectic as they are entertaining (documentaries, foreign flicks, and independent releases often dominate the schedule), the group also brings in a fair share of cinematic gems that have already played the Santa Barbara circuit. Upcoming shows include the Academy Award-winning Coen brothers masterpiece, No Country for Old Men (Sun., Mar. 23), and the visually stunning-and delightfully quirky-Wes Anderson film, The Darjeeling Limited (Sun., Mar. 30). It’s the ideal opportunity to catch what may have passed you up on the first go-around in grand-scale, movie-theater style.
2) You’ve Never Heard of It: If our annual film festival is any indication, Santa Barbara County houses more than its fair share of film lovers. And it is with that in mind that the directors, doctors, professors, and professionals who make up the nonprofit’s Board of Directors continue to go out of their way to select the cream of the cinematic crop. Films range from the obscure and otherworldly (last month’s Vanaja) to the fringe-y and fascinating (Pete Seeger: The Power of Song), creating an artsy cross-section of movies that never made their way to the Metro screens.
3) Something for Everyone: Besides providing a great way to spend a lazy Sunday afternoon, OFS publicly and proudly promotes the continued support of the cinematic arts by offering discounted ticket prices for both seniors and students-as well as $8 general admission prices.
