About us
This group is for relaxed discussion of recent foreign films - of all types, from any country. We keep the number of meeting participants small so everyone has an equal opportunity to speak, and no one may dominate the conversation. In addition, our aim is not to be technical film critics. The goal is to search out films that give us an alternative cultural, social, political viewpoint - a viewpoint that comes from the rest of the world outside the US. And our main interest is in character development, relationships, and story.
The format is to watch the movie on your own sometime before the meeting. We'll always choose movies that are easy to locate for streaming. Meetings will take place in a public location like a cafe, pub, or restaurant.
New members are always welcome! If you’re interested, please be sure there's a realistic photo of yourself, and answer 2 questions which will appear after you hit the “Request to Join” button.
Looking forward to great conversations!
Upcoming events
1
Film: Istanbul Encyclopedia
King Tide Fish & Shell, 1510 Southwest Harbor Way, Portland, or, USThis group is for relaxed discussion of recent foreign films - of all types, from any country. We keep the number of meeting participants small so everyone has an equal opportunity to speak, and no one may dominate the conversation. In addition, our aim is not to be technical film critics. The goal is to search out films that give us an alternative cultural, social, political viewpoint - a viewpoint that comes from the rest of the world outside the US. And our main interest is in character development, relationships, and story.
~~~~~~~~~~Note: This meeting we’ll discuss a recent series from Turkey which deals with dilemmas for women that are common in many Islamic countries today. The series includes 8 episodes, so if you’d like to attend give yourself plenty of watching time beforehand.
“Istanbul Encyclopedia premiered on Netflix in 2025. Directed by Selman Nacar, the show is being praised for its nuanced portrayal of contemporary life in Türkiye and megacity Istanbul, capturing the tensions between secular and conservative segments of society, social hypocrisy, class divides, and identity struggles. This heartfelt show consists of eight episodes and is noted for its emotional depth, and as a love letter to Istanbul, not just portraying the city but also its memories and personal histories.” - Türkiye Today
“A young student moves in with her mother's estranged best friend in Istanbul, trading her humble hometown for a city that tests her identity and convictions.”
https://www.rottentomatoes.com/tv/istanbul_encyclopedia
The film can be streamed on Netflix.
4 attendees
Past events
2
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