Film Critics

Please join DMV Wine Explorers on Thursday February 12th at Total Wine Ballston at 6:30PM for a wine and chocolate pairing class. \*\* Tickets are $20 and can be purchased [here](https://www.totalwine.com/class/wine-and-chocolate-a-perfect-pair/ballston/virginia/e/ec714779) \*\* Some things really are better together. Wine and chocolate! Pairing the right wine with the right chocolate creates new and unexpected tastes to delight the senses. Featuring premiere chocolate from a world-famous maker, this is a delish class for wine lovers with a sweet tooth!

[Profs and Pints DC](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“The Single Lesson,”** a debunking of myths and misconceptions about singlehood and a look at research and advocacy efforts focused on the unmarried, with Craig Wynne, a professor of English at the University of the District of Columbia and pioneer in the growing field of Singles Studies. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at[ https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/profsandpints/dc-the-single-lesson]( https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/profsandpints/dc-the-single-lesson) .] All around us are messages that being “coupled up” is the norm. Shows like *The Bachelor*, 90-Day Fiancé, and *Indian Matchmaking* have people rooting and fawning for marriage. Yet, despite its supposed unpopularity, the rate of singlehood is increasing. By 2030, the Pew Research Center has projected, 25 percent of 45- to 54-year-old adults in the United States will never have married. What’s the real picture when it comes to singles? Is a growing share of the population missing out on marital bliss, or are single people on to something? Hear such questions tackled by Professor Craig Wynne, co-editor of *Singular Selves: An Introduction to Singles Studies* and author of *How to be a Happy Bachelor.* Dr. Wynne will discuss how stereotypes of singlehood are perpetuated in the media and how they influence laws, policies, and our daily social interactions in ways that harm not just single people but those who are married, cohabitating, or in a relationship. His talk will explore the concepts of “singlism,” the stereotyping and stigma around people who are not married or otherwise unpartnered; “matrimania,” over-the-top societal obsession with marriage and weddings; and “amatonormativity,” the assumption that a romantic relationship must be prioritized above all other kinds. Finally, Dr. Wynne will discuss the emergence of Singles Studies—a field devoted to granting singlehood validity in an academic context—and look at recent advocacy intended to secure single people equity in a world that still privileges being married or coupled. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. Talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image by Canva.

Come by for an hour of evening writing with fellow creative folks. Everyone works on their own thing, no obligation to share — just show up and make any kind of words happen. If you're spending too much time thinking about writing, join us for an hour of focused writing. Guidelines: * While some discussion is encouraged to get to know one another, strive for silent, focused writing from 6:45 PM - 7:45 PM. * Generally avoid disruptive sensory input/behaviors, such as repeated or unpleasant noises, smells, physical movements, etc. (if you have health-related reasons, or some other aspect out of your control due to which this could become an issue, show up anyway and explain that potential disruptions are not intentional.) * Repeated breaking of the above rules without a valid reason may result in dismissal from the group at any point during a session. **Why is Shut Up & Write(!) so effective?** [http://arsenalofwords.com/2015/10/14/why-i-shut-up-write/](http://arsenalofwords.com/2015/10/14/why-i-shut-up-write/) **LOCATION:** Gaithersburg Library, Study Room 2 (if we aren't in 2, check 1!) **SCHEDULE:** 6:30 \| Pre\-session check\-in \- What will you work on? 6:45 \| Shut up and write for 1 hour\! 7:45 \| Post\-session check\-in \- How did it go? Feel free to keep writing and finish your lingering thoughts past this point, but know that the library closes at 8 PM! **BRING:** Whatever you need to be able to write! ***If you are interested in a more collaborative and discussion-focused writing group, the Gaithersburg Library hosts such a group on Sundays from 4:00 to 5:30 PM! Ask Chris or the library staff for more details.***

**Advance reservations required. Tickets/Info:** [https://www.internationalclubdc.com/SpecialEvents/Viennese-Waltz-Lessons/Viennese-Waltz-Lessons.aspx](https://www.internationalclubdc.com/SpecialEvents/Viennese-Waltz-Lessons/Viennese-Waltz-Lessons.aspx) ### Even if you've never danced before, learn to dance the Viennese Waltz as it is danced in Vienna, in time for our Austrian Embassy Viennese Ball. A partner or prior dance experience are not needed to sign up so join us on your own or with friends. Whether you plan to attend our Viennese Ball at Austrian Embassy or would simply like to learn how to dance the Viennese Waltz, don't miss this rare opportunity to learn to dance one of the most elegant and romantic dances of all time. The lessons will be taught on a wooden dance floor at the Austrian Embassy, one of the most magnificent embassies in Washington DC. During the lessons Austrian wine will be available for purchase at the cash bar. **Advance reservations required. Tickets/Info:** [https://www.internationalclubdc.com/SpecialEvents/Viennese-Waltz-Lessons/Viennese-Waltz-Lessons.aspx](https://www.internationalclubdc.com/SpecialEvents/Viennese-Waltz-Lessons/Viennese-Waltz-Lessons.aspx) Join us on your own or with friends for Viennese Waltz lessons in time for our magical Viennese Ball. You are cordially invited to join us at the Embassy of Austria to indulge in an evening of Viennese Waltz lessons and learn to dance one of the most elegant and romantic dances of the world! The lessons are well-attended by both singles and couple alike so you are welcome to attend on your own or with friends. Prior dance experience is not needed to attend. Meet and socialize with diplomats, distinguished guests, and diverse professionals from DC and around the world. **Advance reservations required. Tickets/Info:** [https://www.internationalclubdc.com/SpecialEvents/Viennese-Waltz-Lessons/Viennese-Waltz-Lessons.aspx](https://www.internationalclubdc.com/SpecialEvents/Viennese-Waltz-Lessons/Viennese-Waltz-Lessons.aspx) Please visit the **Viennese Ball Gala Webpage** for detailed information about the Viennese Ball: [https://www.internationalclubdc.com/specialevents/Viennese-Ball-washington-dc/Viennese-Ball.aspx](https://www.internationalclubdc.com/specialevents/Viennese-Ball-washington-dc/Viennese-Ball.aspx) Please visit the **Viennese Waltz Lessons Webpage** for detailed information about Viennese Waltz lessons presented on the day prior to the Viennese Ball at the Embassy of Austria: [https://www.internationalclubdc.com/SpecialEvents/Viennese-Waltz-Lessons/Viennese-Waltz-Lessons.aspx](https://www.internationalclubdc.com/SpecialEvents/Viennese-Waltz-Lessons/Viennese-Waltz-Lessons.aspx) **Agenda** **6-8PM Viennese Waltz Session:** Arrive and check in at the Austrian Embassy at 6:00 PM and enjoy Austrian wine at the cash bar. Meet other attendees and prepare for the Viennese Waltz lesson that will start shortly after 6:15 PM. After the lesson practice dancing the Viennese Waltz to recorded music until 8PM. Event concludes at 8PM for the 6-8PM Session attendees. **7:30 PM to 10:00 PM Viennese Waltz Session:** Arrive and check in at the Austrian Embassy at 7:30 PM and enjoy Austrian wine at the cash bar. Meet other attendees and prepare for the Viennese Waltz lesson that will start shortly after 8:00 PM. After the lesson practice dancing the Viennese Waltz to recorded music until 10PM. Event concludes at 10PM for the 8-10PM Session attendees. **Advance reservations required. Tickets/Info:** [https://www.internationalclubdc.com/SpecialEvents/Viennese-Waltz-Lessons/Viennese-Waltz-Lessons.aspx](https://www.internationalclubdc.com/SpecialEvents/Viennese-Waltz-Lessons/Viennese-Waltz-Lessons.aspx)

UCM is dedicated to helping members develop self-confidence -- critical thinking ― effective presentations ― extemporaneous speaking ― listening ― leadership ― time management ― developing the best YOU! Join our hybrid meeting from home or in person. Take the step to a more confident, professional and well understood you. When: 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month hybrid Time: 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm (Arrive at 6:45PM for a Meet and Greet. Building closes and meeting starts at 7PM sharp. E-mail ucm8127@yahoo.com for Zoom link and questions. Visit our club website at http://ucm.toastmastersclubs.org/ for more information. Join us!

Let's see Good Luck, Have Fun, Don't Die, the latest Sam Rockwell flick. Will it be any good? Who knows, but it's Sam Rockwell. Perhaps he'll dance. Also, upon further investigation, I found out it's Gore Verbinski-directed. He directed The Ring and the original Pirates trilogy (albeit 20 years ago) so it could be a fun ride. We'll be at the Regal in Silver Spring. Your host will be in seat D6.

You may wonder if you actually saw what you think you saw as you watch this movie, and that’s OK – Oddball Cinema encourages wondering! The visuals are occasionally bizarre, occasionally whimsical, and relentlessly dynamic as the environment changes to suit the characters’ moods, whims, or – well, you just have to see for yourself. Audrey Tatou is the leading lady, but don’t expect the wacky exploits of “Amélie” or the love-conquers-all spirit of “Priceless.” This story begins with comedy and romance, but something malignant lurks in the psychedelic undergrowth. ■ Title — *Mood Indigo* ■ A.K.A. — *L'écume des jours* ■ Director — Michel Gondry ■ Cast — Romain Duris, Audrey Tautou, Gad Elmaleh ■ Unrated, suitable for general audiences ■ ©2013 \| 1h 34m \| Comedy\, Drama\, Fantasy\, Romance ■ Distributed by Giant Pictures

**NOTE: This is NOT a screening, please watch the movie before the discussion.** *"Hey Ted, where the hell's the corkscrew?!"* *Friday the 13th: The Final Chapter* arrives at a point where the series knows exactly what it is. Picking up immediately after Part 3, the film traps a new group of unlucky victims near Camp Crystal Lake as Jason Voorhees continues his unstoppable march through the annals of horror history. Lean, mean, and packed with some of the series’ most memorable kills, *The Final Chapter* distills the formula to its sharpest elements — suspense, savagery, and a mounting sense of inevitability — before slamming the door shut with brutal efficiency. Often regarded as the strongest entry in the original series, the film balances classic slasher suspense with some of the most effective practical effects of the era. It’s a no-frills, high-impact installment that solidified Jason as a horror icon. ***

Hey Chapter Twoers, let's do the Time Warp again! Come join us at 10:30 pm on Friday. February 13th at the Landmark Bethesda Row Cinema (which is Metro accessible) for a screening and performance of the Rocky Horror Picture Show, which just celebrated its 50th anniversary last year. Tim Curry stars as Dr. Frank N. Furter, along with Susan Sarandon, Barry Bostwick, Meat Loaf, and author Richard O’Brien. It's a fun musical spoof of horror films and the first interactive movie experience. Landmark hosts the live shadow cast, [Sonic Transducers](https://dcrockyhorror.com/), which performs alongside the movie. Tickets are on sale now [here](https://www.landmarktheatres.com/events/39974-landmarks-bethesda-row-cinema-the-rocky-horror-picture-show/), and 4 rows are already filling up. If you plan to attend, we encourage you to buy your tickets now. If you aren’t a Landmark member, sign up for free and get 15% off your ticket. I will enter my seat number below in the comments so we can all try and sit together.

We are collaborating with CAASM for an exciting event. Join us for an afternoon of live storytelling, featuring a table read of three original shorts written by local writers and performed by a talented cast of actors. Whether you’re a lover of live performance or just someone looking for a unique way to celebrate Valentine's, this event is perfect for anyone interested in the art of storytelling via scripts. **What to Expect:** * A live read-through of three original shorts. * A chance to experience new works in progress as they’re brought to life for the first time * A welcoming space to connect with local creatives Come support original storytelling and enjoy an evening of suspense, scares, and seasonal fun. **Perfect for:** Writers, theater lovers, or anyone who enjoys discovering new stories and supporting local creativity.

Hi everyone! Want to see a science fiction comedy where a person from the future (played by Sam Rockwell) recruits people from a diner in order to save the world? If so, join me at the AMC Hoffman Center 22 on February 13th for a 7:15 pm screening of “Good Luck, Have Fun, Don’t Die”. I’ll be sitting in H5 in Auditorium 19. If anyone wants to chat beforehand, I’ll be at Atlas roughly 45 minutes before the screening.

Join us for the inaugural gathering of the DC Creative Collective for Film, TV, and Theater — a welcoming space for filmmakers, writers, actors, and creative enthusiasts across the DMV to connect and create together. This first meetup will be an introduction to the collective’s vision, followed by networking, artist introductions, and an open discussion where members can share their creative interests, experience levels, and the kinds of projects they hope to collaborate on. We will also host a casual table read and idea exchange, giving participants a chance to hear scripts, workshop concepts, and meet potential collaborators for future productions. Whether you are experienced in the industry or just beginning your creative journey, come ready to build community, share stories, and help shape a collaborative artistic home where ideas move from imagination to stage and screen.

We've attended this in the past. The films are always good and the Irish Embassy does a great job with the reception. The cost is just $25 for film and reception - pretty reasonable. **SAIPAN -** This nail-biting, darkly comic drama recounts one of the most fractious fallings-outs in the history of sport: the explosive clash between soccer star Roy Keane (Éanna Hardwicke) and manager Mick McCarthy (the great Steve Coogan) on the island of Saipan just days before the Irish national football team competed in the 2002 FIFA World Cup in Japan and South Korea. Reviews have been very good - says you don't need to be a soccer fan to enjoy immensely. Q&A with directors Lisa Barros D’Sa and Glenn Leyburn\, moderated by Professor Darragh Gannon\, Associate Director of Global Irish Studies\, Georgetown University \| Post\-screening reception sponsored by the Embassy of Ireland\, Washington\, DC **TO PURCHASE A TICKET, USE [THIS LINK](https://silver.afi.com/movies/detail/0100005437/). Click on the "7:00 pm" bottom left and then follow the instructions.** Rooted in clashing standards and personalities, their feud transcended the game and gripped the entire nation of Ireland as hopes for glory went into a tailspin that not even the Taoiseach could remedy. Keane’s headline-grabbing eleventh hour departure from Ireland’s squad briefly left a weakened McCarthy to hold together a crumbling situation without his team’s talisman amidst a wealth of negativity from press and fans alike. On the surface it was all about standards, but deep down it was a hugely emotive story of two men whose rivalry and contempt came to surpass the sport they loved. With riveting performances from Coogan and Hardwicke, this gripping true story goes beyond sport to tell a tale of leadership, loyalty and rivalry that captured global attention — and as Ireland are on the cusp of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, it is the perfect time to learn about a historic moment for the Boys in Green. (Note adapted from Vertigo Releasing.) DIR Lisa Barros D’Sa, Glenn Leyburn; SCR Paul Fraser; PROD Macdara Kelleher, John Keville, Trevor Birney, Oliver Butler. Ireland/UK, 2025, color, 91 min. NOT RATED

[Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“Love and Monsters,”** on the inescapable bond between romance and horror, with Joshua Barton, scholar of horror and lecturer in English at Virginia Commonwealth University. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/profsandpints/nv-love-monsters](https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/profsandpints/nv-love-monsters) .] Romance and horror might seem like opposite genres, but they share a deep emotional core, and the combination of them has captivated audiences across time and culture. Put even your worst Valentine’s Day in perspective by hearing this strange relationship discussed by Joshua Barton, who has earned a big following among Profs and Pints fans with his past talks on cryptids, American horror, and Christmas ghosts. He’ll explore the undeniable and unsettling intersection of romance and horror and examine how and why love and fear intensify each other and combined to create tension, drive narratives, and explore human vulnerability. We’ll look at works that have blended passion and terror, including Gothic literature like the vampire novella *Carmilla* and modern films like *Spring* and *Crimson Peak*. We’ll study the fine line between obsession and adoration running through Stephen King’s “I Know What You Need,” Adrian Lyne’s *Fatal Attraction*, and the timeless *The Phantom of the Opera.* We’ll discuss the seeds of monstrous love that were planted with *Beauty and the Beast* and *Creature from the Black Lagoon* and bloom ferociously in works like *Twilight* and *The Shape of Water*. Through it all, we’ll find the threads of otherness and the taboo that intertwine horror, love, and reflections on identity. Join us for a journey through storytelling that combines the grotesque and the scintillating as we uncover why romance and horror are a match made in the dark. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. Talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: From the original 1954 advertising poster for *Creature from the Black Lagoon* (Artist: Reynold Brown / Public Domain).

**Joyful Mind Zendo** is happy to invite you to our **first film night** screening the Wim Wenders Oscar nominated film, **Perfect Days**. **Details:** * Come at **6:00 PM** to the **basement Zendo (back door)** to help set up. * Bring pizza, popcorn, dips, or beverages to share. * The screening will begin promptly at **6:30 PM**. * The films running time is 2hrs 4min, and will be followed by a short break and discussion. * Our evening will end by 9:30 PM. * Here is the [trailer](https://youtu.be/QzZBbX5A1FA?si=zTjQF8_t4oDzz3pd). * **See you soon and invite a friend!** | | | --- | | Perfect Days follows Hirayama, a middle-aged man living a life of humble simplicity in Tokyo. His days are governed by a meticulous routine: he wakes at dawn to the sound of a street sweeper, tends to his maple saplings, and drives his small van through the city to his job cleaning public toilets. Despite the seemingly lowly nature of his work, Hirayama performs his duties with the grace and precision of a master craftsman, finding deep contentment in the order and service he provides. | The core of Perfect Days is a celebration of presence and the dignity of labor\. Director Wim Wenders suggests that a meaningful life is not found in grand ambitions or material wealth\, but in the intentional appreciation of the here and now\. The film posits that true freedom comes from accepting life's limitations and finding 'perfection' in the subtle\, fleeting moments of harmony between humanity and nature\, encapsulated in the Japanese concept of Komerobi\. \|

This is something you always wanted to do...Just not alone! Come explore India and Dubai with us! We’ll wander through the colorful streets of **Delhi**, take in the beauty of the **Taj Mahal**, and soak up the royal vibes of **Jaipur.** To top it all off, we’ll celebrate Holi—the festival of colors—like locals do, in an authentic and joyful way! **But that’s not all!** After India, we’ll enjoy a bonus 3-night stay in the glamorous city of **Dubai**, one of the world’s most fascinating cities. From jaw-dropping skyscrapers to desert sunsets, Dubai is the perfect mix of modern luxury and deep-rooted tradition. This isn’t your typical tour. It’s a Meetup-style journey filled with curiosity, connection, and shared experiences. We’ve done this trip before, and every time it’s been more than just a vacation—it’s been eye-opening, transformative experience that connects you to new perspectives, cultures, and unforgettable memories with new friends. *What is included in India* ➢ 2 Nights’ stay in Delhi ➢ 2 Nights’ stay in Agra ➢ 3 Nights’ stay in Jaipur ➢ Meals : 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 6 dinners ➢ Round trip airport transfers by air-conditioned vehicle ➢ Local English-speaking guides for sightseeing ➢ Entrance fees to monuments as per itinerary ➢ Rickshaw ride at Chandini chowk (ancient bazaar) in Delhi ➢ Elephant ride in Jaipur (subject to availability) ➢ Old and New Delhi sightseeing included Rickshaw ride ➢ Agra sightseeing included Magnificent Taj Mahal and Agra fort ➢ Jaipur sightseeing included with Amer fort, Hawa Mahal and Jal Mahal ➢ Holi celebration in Agra ➢ All taxes, driver allowances, parking etc. *What is included in Dubai* ➢ 3 Nights’ accommodation in Dubai with breakfast ➢ Meals: 3 breakfast, and 2 dinners ➢ Round trip airport transfers in Dubai on private basis ➢ Driver/Guide in Dubai ➢ Half day Dubai City Tour (Includes Photo Stop at Burj Al Arab, Photo stop at the Atlantis at the Palm Island, Visit to Gold and Spice Souks etc.) ➢ Dhow Cruise with Buffet Dinner ➢ Desert Safari with BBQ dinner (4x4 sharing vehicle) & Arabian Tanoura dance show and belly performance ➢ All taxes and tourism Dihram *What is not included:* ➢ Any International/Internal Airfare ➢ Visa, insurance ➢ Any meals other than specified in cost include ➢ Porterage, tips, laundry, beverages, cost of personal nature like telephone charges ➢ Any sightseeing not mentioned in inclusions **Cost:** * **$3990 per person (based on room sharing)—we offer easy roommate matching!** * **Prefer a room to yourself? Solo supplement is $1500 for a total of $5490** RSVP with your email address to receive detailed Day-by-Day itinerary or [fill out this form](https://forms.gle/cQdqYw74gAYqphXX8). **If you wish to attend, deposit of $250 is the only way to secure your spot. Please pay the deposit through this secure [Deposit Link](https://www.paypal.com/instantcommerce/checkout/4XM44PYUEYJEJ).** Deposits are refundable up to 90 days before departure. **Airfare is not included**, but we are holding a group space from Los Angeles for $1299 including all taxes and the flight from Delhi and Dubai. To secure you airfare from LAX submit a **nonrefundable $200 deposit [HERE](https://www.paypal.com/instantcommerce/checkout/W5DSZYQWFTBEQ)** **If you are not in LA, we can help you arrange the airfare from any other city.** **Space is limited** and this event is cross posted to our sister groups. RSVPs on this post do not reflect actual number of participants. Don’t wait—this trip will sell out fast! \*\*\*[Click Here ](https://forms.gle/cQdqYw74gAYqphXX8)\*\*\**to fill out our google info request form for detailed itinerary on this or any of our other international events.* Got questions? [Click Here](https://www.meetup.com/members/14363992/) to message Ekaterina direct with any questions. Still have questions? We do a monthly [Q&A Travel Zoom](https://www.meetup.com/moretoexplore/events/297487010/) on all our events. **We believe in good decent social!** We have a set of sister groups where we post our local free events, local/regional camping getaways, and our overseas trips too. ***[Click Here](https://www.meetup.com/CulturalArts/Events)***[ to see all our events](https://www.meetup.com/CulturalArts/Events) Our events create and foster community and a sense of discovery. We welcome and are inclusive of all. ***Live the adventure instead of only dreaming it!*** SOT 2000318-10

Join us as we host our next screening of Alma’s Rainbow (1994) by Ayoka Chenzira! This film is 85 minutes and an optional short discussion with the group will follow. **This event will tentatively be hosted at the MLK Library.** Synopsis: A rediscovered treasure of independent cinema, this incisive comedic drama follows Rainbow Gold (Victoria Gabrielle Platt), a teenager coming of age in Brooklyn, as she looks to two vastly different models of womanhood: her straitlaced mother, Alma (Kim Weston-Moran), who runs a hair salon in the parlor of their home and disapproves of her daughter’s newfound interest in boys; and her free-spirited, larger-than-life aunt Ruby (Mizan Kirby), who has just returned from Paris after a ten-year absence and whose presence shakes up the household. Bursting with the bold Day-Glo colors of nineties fashion, this dazzling feature from feminist filmmaker and animator Ayoka Chenzira grapples with questions of Black women’s sexuality, agency, and self-image from a multigenerational perspective. (Criterion)