By Katie Curley Katzman
For movie buffs, watching a new release is only half the fun. Talking about it with other film fans is often just as entertaining and insightful.
That's the idea behind the Newburyport Film Society. Launched in January, the informal group open to the public meets the first Monday of the month at the Screening Room in downtown Newburyport for a movie and discussion.
The society's second meeting is set for Monday at 7:30 p.m. and will feature a screening of "An Education." Set in London in 1961, the movie follows 16-year-old Jenny, who wants to live a sophisticated life in France. One day, a mysterious man twice her age offers her a ride in his sports car, and she is smitten, plunging into dubious adventures with him.
Michelle Fino, the organizer of the film society, said formal reviews of "An Education" have been positive, but she's eager to hear what locals think.
"There is no moderator, and it's very casual, but it gives people the chance to hang out and talk after the movie ends," Fino said. "Last month, over 15 people showed up, and the age range was all over the place. It was an interesting mix of movie buffs and single people just looking to bond with the community."
Fino said the idea for the society grew out of the annual Newburyport Documentary Film Festival, which she oversees each fall. She said festival-goers liked the camaraderie that came with being able to talk about the films as a group and wanted to be able to continue that throughout the year.
Film nights are open to everyone. Fino stresses there's no pressure to comment during the discussion. She said people can feel free to simply come enjoy the film and listen to the dialogue.
"Right now, we're at the Screening Room, but maybe we will end up going out to dinner and discussing after or going to the Firehouse Center (for a film)," she said. "We will see what comes of it."
IF YOU GO
What: Newburyport Film Society Night
When: First Monday of the month at 7:30 p.m. Now showing: "An Education" on Feb. 3.
Where: Screening Room, 82 State St.. Newburyport
How: Open to the public. The Screening Room is offering tickets for the film nights at a reduced price of $5.50 (a $1.50 discount). Visit www.newburyportfilmfestival.org or www.newburyportmovies.com for more or contact Michelle Fino at mfino2001@aol.com.
