The Maltese Falcon

Opening

THE DOUBLE HOUR—Genre-bending film festival favorite about an immigrant chambermaid and an ex-cop whose relationship takes some unusual twists after the meet at a speed-dating session. Starring Ksenia Rappoport, Filippo Timi, and Antonia Truppo. Directed by Giuseppe Capotondi. Reviewed this issue. Amherst

PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: ON STRANGER TIDES—Sequel. Starring Johnny Depp, Penélope Cruz, Geoffrey Rush, and Ian McShane. Directed by Rob Marshall (Chicago).

THE PRINCESS OF MONTPENSIER— During the French Catholic/Protestant wars of the 16th century, a princess forced into a politically advantageous marriage is drawn into court intrigues. Starring Mélanie Thierry, Lambert Wilson, and Gaspard Ulliel. Directed by Bertrand Tavernier (‘Round Midnight).

SUPER—Rainn Wilson stars as a loser who decides to fight back aginst the oppressive forces in his life by becoming a costumed superhero. With Ellen Page, Liv Tyler, and Kevin Bacon. Directed by James Gunn (Slither). Reviewed this issue.

ETC:

CULTURE IN CINEMA: Philadelphia Orchestra—Charles Dutoit conducts two choral symphonies, Stravinsky’s Symphony of Psalms and of course Beethoven’s Ninth. Sun 2 pm. Amherst Theatre, 3500 Main St. (834-7655 / www.dipsontheatres.com).

END:CIV—Documentary based on the book Endgame by Derrick Jensen examining the potential destruction of our civilization from its own weaknesses. Director Franklin López will be present to introduce the film and answers questions. Fri 7pm. Adam Mickiewicz Library, 612 Fillmore Ave..

THE MALTESE FALCON (1941)—Previously a top scriptwriter, John Huston moved into the director’s chair for one of the most assured directorial debuts in Hollywood history. Dashiell Hammett’s tale of Sam Spade and his search for the killer of his partner makes a movie that, if not perfect, could hardly be improved upon. With Mary Astor, Peter Lorre, Sydney Greenstreet, and Elisha Cook Jr, Fri Sat Sun Tue 8pm. The Screening Room, Northtown Plaza in Century Mall, 3131 Sheridan Drive, Amherst (837-0376 / www.screeningroom.net).

NOT AN ALL-STAR CAST—Locally made sketch comedy movie by Niagara University graduate Andy Michalski, featuring Mike Leszczynski, Salvatore Indelicato, Matt Lachiusa, Stephanie Hooley, Kate Olena, and Dan Siejak. Sat 8pm. HD Video Café, 5445 Transit Rd, Williamsville (688-4933 / www.hdvideocafe.com).