Cinema Clubhouse returns to the big screen
Courtesy of Tanner Grover
Tanner Grover, left, and surprise guest John Michael Higgins at last year's showing of "Best in Show." Courtesy of Tanner Grover
Courtesy of Tanner Grover
Tanner Grover, left, and surprise guest John Michael Higgins at last year's showing of "Best in Show." Courtesy of Tanner Grover
Cinephiles rejoice! Tanner Grover’s free movie club is returning to Harbor Theater this fall. The show kicks offSept. 27 at 6 p.m. with “Freeway” (1996), a darkly comedic crime thriller starring Kiefer Sutherland and Reese Witherspoon.
As part of the typical post-show film ranking and conversation, Grover’s former University of Southern Maine professor and award-winning filmmakerKate Kaminski of Gitgo Productions will lead the discussion. This season's goal is to feature more guests to offer film insights, although last year was not devoid of VIPs, with the serendipitous appearance of actor John Michael Higginsfor the showing of his movie “Best in Show” (2000).
“That was a particularly cool moment that I don't know we'll be able to recreate, but I also think there's something to be said for creating spaces for communities where you never know what might happen,” said Grover.
Fostering a sense of community is an underlying mission of the club, and last year was a success as over 200 people attended across screenings. “Something I was really pleased with overall was audience participation. People that attended really provided ... original thoughts and takes on the different movies, and it was just a real pleasure to be a part of their insights.”
Guests also left over 80 film recommendations, and Grover does plan to honor them. However, while the prior year was focused on screening fan favorites, Grover hopes to get a bit more obscure and risqué this time around.
The club is showing a new film every month until May. Admission is free; concessions require purchase.
