Hollister Film Series Offers The Best Of The Worst This Month

RIDGEFIELD — Ridgefield Library’s Hollister Film Series wants viewers to “Camp Out” at this month’s movie screenings, featuring two inspired flicks about the very worst of B-movie directors. Screenings are on Tuesdays at 1 and 7 pm.

On November 13, the screenings begin with a showing of Tim Burton’s Ed Wood, starring Johnny Depp and Martin Landau. A winner of two Academy Awards, this look at legendary B-movie director Ed Wood masterfully reproduces Wood’s poignant relationship with fading film icon Bela Lugosi and the director’s off-screen lifestyle, which often mirrored the quirky, comedic tone of his infamous screen flops.

On November 27, gear up for serious laughs for Bowfinger, a  hilarious send-up of present day Tinseltown. Steve Martin plays Bobby Bowfinger, who is attempting to film a sci-fi movie on no budget. Unable to hire real actors, Bowfinger tricks big-time action star Kit Ramsey, played by Eddie Murphy, into appearing in the film without pay – and without even knowing he’s in it.

While the film is outrageously silly, it nonetheless explores the frustrations with which struggling Hollywood filmmakers are all-too-well acquainted.

Those attending the evening screenings will be treated to “FilmFriends,” a lively film-discussion group led by David Bass, who received a BFA in theatre from New York University, has directed productions off-Broadway, in Los Angeles and London, and has also worked at several of New York’s leading theater companies, including Playwright’s Horizon and the Public Theater.

Screenings are free and open to all ages. The library, at 478 Main Street/Route 35, can be reached by calling 203-438-2282.