Bravo to the Dietrich Theater’s film booker Ronnie Harvey and our New York City film buyer Jeffrey Jacobs for putting together a superb smorgasbord of films for us to enjoy in our recent Winter Fest. There wasn’t one that I saw that I didn’t like. My favorites, though, have to be “A Man Called Ove” and “The Eagle Huntress.”

“A Man Called Ove” really ran the gamut of emotions. It made me laugh out loud and shed a tear. It was beautifully told and you just fell in love with the characters. I would recommend it to anyone.

The Eagle Huntress was also fascinating. Not knowing much about Mongolia, this documentary gave me a glimpse of the country’s breathtaking scenery and of their rich culture. This film told the story of a brave 13-year-old girl who trains to become the first female eagle hunter in 12 generations in her family. During the movie, you see what an amazing feat this really is and what a loving, encouraging family she has – especially her father. My husband said after watching it, there were no Hollywood stunt doubles to step in and take on the challenges that she faced. I would definitely see “The Eagle Huntress” again.

Both “A Man Called Ove” and “The Eagle Huntress” shows for one last time on Thursday, March 2 at the Dietrich. If you can fit them into your schedule, believe me, you are in for a cinematic treat. That same day, I want to be sure to catch our final showing of “The Beatles: Eight Days a Week,” which has also been a crowd favorite.

Then at 1 p.m. on Friday, March 3, we invite you to come out to the theatre for a post-festival discussion. Share your thoughts on the films. What was your favorite? Least favorite? Also gain insight by listening to other movie-goers’ opinions about the movies. I know I am very interested to hear what others thought about “A Brand New Testament.” The discussion will be facilitated by our film buff extraordinaire Ronnie Harvey. There is no need to register. Just show up.

I know as you are reading this, Winter Fest isn’t quite yet finished, but I don’t think it’s too early to let you know that the Dietrich’s Spring Film Festival is scheduled to kick-off on Friday, April 7 and run through April 28. As I am writing this, Harvey and Jacobs are finalizing the selections for it. They look wonderful. Stay tuned for more information.

In addition to showing great films, the Dietrich has a few events that are just around the corner for you to enjoy.

There will be a free history presentation on Sullivan’s March with Ed McMullen and Andrea Smith at 3 p.m. Sunday, March 5. During this talk, Ed McMullen will share the story behind this historical event that happened right here in our region and Andrea Smith will discuss the historical markers that commemorate Sullivan’s March that are dotted throughout northeastern Pennsylvania.

McMullen previously presented lectures on the Wyoming Valley Massacre, the Civil War and D-Day at the Dietrich. He is a true historian and has a gift for storytelling. Smith is a cultural anthropologist and a professor at Lafayette College. This will be her first time presenting at the Dietrich.

Local history presentations are always popular at the Dietrich and we look forward to hearing what McMullen and Smith have to say about Sullivan’s March. Free tickets are available by calling 570-996-1500 or at the ticket booth as long as they last. This presentation is the first of a series about our Endless Mountains heritage. The series has been made possible by the Endless Mountains Heritage Region with funding from the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

Also, be sure to also check out National Theatre Live’s production of Amadeus at 2 p.m. Sunday, March 12 on the Dietrich’s big screen. It still amazes me that we have the opportunity to see these acclaimed productions from the London stage and Broadway right here in Tunkhannock. Tickets are still available.

Movies, theatre, history presentations and more presented right here at your local Dietrich Theater. For a full listing of events and classes, visit DietrichTheater.com.

After all, the Dietrich is so much more than the movies!

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More Than Movies

Erica Rogler

Reach the Abington Journal newsroom at 570-587-1148 or news@s24528.p831.sites.pressdns.com.