KENNETH BRANAGH | MVFF AWARD
Kenneth Branagh was an acclaimed theater actor with a rising star in film when he made his Oscar®-nominated writing-directing debut and took the starring role in his adaptation of Shakespeare’s Henry V. Over 30 years, he has built a singular director’s resume that encompasses The Bard and the rock-’em-sock-’em action of Marvel’s Thor. In 2012, Branagh was knighted for his services to drama and the community of Northern Ireland.
It is fitting then that MVFF pays tribute to this storied writer-director-actor and his art in tandem with Branagh’s cinematic return to the country of his birth. Join us for a screening of Belfast and a lively conversation with this cinema giant. –Pam Grady
Our Tribute program features an onstage conversation with Kenneth Branagh, a screening of Belfast, and the presentation of the MVFF Award.
GET TICKETS
Friday, October 15, 6:30pm, Smith Rafael Film Center
- Film only: $40 Member | $45 General
- Film + Reception: $75 Member | $85 General
Regular screening: Saturday, Oct 16, 2:00pm, CinéArts Sequoia
BELFAST
UK 2021, 97 min Director Kenneth Branagh
Belfast is beautiful work: From the outset, Branagh draws us right into the heart and soul of a city and its people with an immediacy that captures the moment. A young boy grows up amidst the 1960s’ Troubles in a working-class family in a place where conflict and whimsy, wisdom and passion daily inform their lives. Charming newcomer Jude Hill delights in the central role of Buddy, with warmly winning turns from Caitríona Balfe and Jamie Dornan as his parents, and Judi Dench and Ciarán Hinds as his grandparents, their performances perfectly complemented by the film’s soulful Van Morrison-infused soundtrack and stylish black-and-white cinematography. Viewing a time of conflict with such love and humanity is something rare: Perhaps it takes a native sensibility to do that. As Branagh once said of himself, “I don’t think you can take Belfast out of the boy,” and here you have it: That compassionate eye on his hometown, coupled with his extraordinary artistry, makes for compelling cinema. –Lily Buchanan
Sponsored by JENNIFER COSLETT MacCREADY
Reception sponsored by
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