Roger Ebert’s film festival, held in his home town of Champaign, Illinois, is starting up this week, and I am flying out this morning to attend. It’s a great chance to see some old friends, and also see a ton of movies, all projected in the GORGEOUS Virginia Theatre, a gigantic old-school movie palace.
It’s a busy schedule, with films in the afternoon, and panels in the morning. You can check out the lineup of films here.
Young Adult! Patton Oswalt is going to be there to present. And Capote will be quite emotional. I look forward to seeing Museum Hours on the big screen (watching it on my television, I could tell the smaller screen was just not appropriate), and Wadjda!! Saudi Arabia! And the director will be there. Thrilling. Not to mention Oliver Stone, to present Born on the Fourth of July.
Also, Do the Right Thing is turning 25 this year, so it is showing on Friday night and Spike Lee is going to be there.
Here’s a complete guide to the festival.
Also, the various panels will be live-streamed. Some very interesting topics.
I’ll see y’all on the flip-side, although I’ll probably write up some dispatches, outside of my assignments for Rogerebert.com.
I lived in central IL back in the 80s and still miss the glorious flatness and huge sky. Please post a pic if you get the chance. My husband and I met 30 years ago in Champaign and Derby Day is our 30th anniversary of being together.
Gina – wow! 30 years!!
I love this whole area. Champaign-Urbana is just a perfect college town!
Have a fabulous time at Ebertfest. Sounds like you’ll be right at home.