The winter months are the perfect time to catch up on the latest cinema. Enjoy screenings of new art house, foreign, independent, and documentary films during the Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center’s Finest in World Cinema Series.
December screenings start with “Art and Craft” directed by Sam Cullman, Jennifer Grausman, and Mark Becker. The documentary highlights the life of Mark Landis, one of the most prolific art forgers in U.S. history. Landis’ remarkable body of work spans thirty years, covering several styles and periods. Although his work could land him an impressive payday on the open market, it’s not about the money for Landis. Over the years, the artist has posed as a philanthropic donor, giving away a staggering number of his replicas to institutions across the United States. After initially deceiving a resolute registrar, the benefactor ultimately discovers the decades-long con and sets out to expose Landis. “Art and Craft” is screening on Friday, December 19th at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, December 20th at 4 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. and December 21st at 4 p.m.
Next up is “CitizenFour” directed by Laura Poitras. While in the process of creating a film about the abuses of national security in post-9/11 America, filmmaker Laura Poitras started to receive encrypted e-mails from “citizen four” in January 2013. The unknown sender, who turned out to be Edward Snowden, was determined to blow the whistle on the massive covert surveillance programs run by the NSA and other intelligence agencies. Poitras flew to Hong Kong in June 2013 to meet with Snowden and the film resulted from the series of tense meetings. “CitizenFour” is screening on Friday, December 26th at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, December 27th at 4 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, December 28th at 4 p.m.
Start 2015 off with a screening of Alan Hicks’ “Keep On Keepin’ On.” The film showcases the unique mentorship between jazz legend Clark Terry and Justin Kauflin, a blind, 23-year-old piano prodigy who suffers from a devastating case of stage fright. Soon after Kauflin is given the chance to compete in an elite jazz competition, Terry’s health takes a turn for the worst. As the clock ticks away, viewers will watch as two friends confront the most difficult challenges of their lives. “Keep On Keepin’ On” is screening on Friday, January 2nd at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, January 3rd at 4 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, January 4th at 4 p.m.
Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center is located at 76 Main Street in Westhampton Beach. For more information, call 631-288-1500 or visit www.whbpac.org.