What we’re about
In the dark age of TV, social media, celebrity culture, commercial branding, and — let’s be honest — human stupidity, it has become urgent to protect the minds of our younger generation.
Smart Students DC was created to nurture strong, independent, and thoughtful minds — with the values of a healthy, curious, and civilized world.
This group is a space for young people — from toddlers to teens — to spend time in museums, play football, fly kites, read books like Tintin, Jules Verne, and Isaac Asimov, work with telescopes, play chess, go on field trips, and watch forgotten cinematic masterpieces that still speak to the younger soul.
In today’s world, it’s getting harder and harder for young people to find culturally aware, smart, and kind friends. We’re here to make that easier — and more fun.
We will regularly organize:
Chess games and casual tournaments
Museum tours and art discovery walks
Nature walks and “talk & explore” outings
Small cultural playdates and group reading sessions
Screenings of meaningful and age-appropriate films from world cinema
All children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult guardian at all events.
This is a community for families who want more than just screen time.
Let’s raise thoughtful humans — together.
Upcoming events (1)
See all- CINEMA PARADISOLandmark Theatres Bethesda Row Cinema, Bethesda, MD
After watching Doctor Zhivago on the big screen in DC a few years ago, finally another true masterpiece is returning
CINEMA PARADISO
This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see this masterpiece in the big screen.My son and I already got seats E6–E7 — so if you want to sit with us, grab something nearby.
And here’s the ironic part: so far, only 4 seats have been taken .
In today’s movie culture, that’s usually the clearest sign that what’s playing is actually worth watching.
The real gems never sell like popcorn.
We’ll meet at 5:30 PM at the entrance and spend a little time in a nearby coffee shop before the screening.
⚠️ Important note (from past experience): in DC area , it’s sadly very common for people to RSVP and then never show up, never reply, and leave others waiting. I find that unfriendly, disrespectful, and disappointing. So if you are genuinely coming, please RSVP "and" send me a direct message on Meetup to confirm — only then will we count on you.
Note on Rating: The film is officially rated R in the U.S., but not because of explicit sexual content — there are no graphic or obscene scenes. In fact, this is a profoundly beautiful and deeply human story, centered on the childhood of a boy and his love for cinema.
"Maybe that is why they don't like American kids to watch it! "
It can be especially moving and inspiring for young boys and girls. Beyond that, exposing teenagers — who are otherwise growing up in the dark age of social media, Instagram and stupic celebrities — to true masterpieces of world cinema is nothing less than a life-changing experience.
Therefore, parents can, at their own discretion, bring along their teenage children.
My own teenage son will be with me.
Please purchase tickets from this link :
now-playing - landmarktheatres
Make sure you pick this location in Bethesda.
Landmark Cinema has many locations.
