“Jazz and animation make for strong bedfellows in They Shot the Piano Player, a film from Spanish directors Fernando Trueba and Javier Mariscal that represents an intriguing hybrid in all sorts of ways” —Chris Willman, Variety
Hirayama (Kôji Yakusho) seems utterly content with his simple life as a cleaner of toilets in Tokyo. Outside of his very structured everyday routine, he enjoys his passion for music and books; he also loves trees and takes photos of them. A series of unexpected encounters gradually reveal more of his past. Wim Wenders directs this deeply moving, poetic reflection on finding beauty in the everyday world around us.
PG; 123 minutes; Japanese with English subtitles
The Peasants tells the story of Jagna, a young woman determined to forge her own path within the confines of a late-nineteenth-century Polish village—a hotbed of gossip and ongoing feuds—held together, rich and poor, by pride in their land, adherence to colorful traditions, and a deep-rooted patriarchy. When Jagna finds herself caught between the conflicting desires of the village’s richest farmer, his eldest son, and other leading men of the community, her resistance puts her on a tragic collision course with the community around her.
This riveting exploration of rebellion, memory, and sisterhood reconstructs the story of Olfa Hamrouni and her four daughters, unpacking a complex family history through intimate interviews and performance to examine how the Tunisian woman’s two eldest were radicalized by Islamic extremists. Casting professional actresses as the missing daughters, along with acclaimed Egyptian-Tunisian actress Hend Sabri as Olfa, award-winning director Kaouther Ben Hania restages pivotal moments in the family’s life.
107 minutes; Arabic with English subtitles
NAACO contributions would directly impact the success of children’s public programs with an opportunity to explore and engage in the world of art by providing essential resources and support necessary for the program’s enhancement, ensuring that more children from the community can benefit from these enriching, hands-on experiences.
Members are invited to celebrate the opening of Surrealism and Us: Caribbean and African Diasporic Artists since 1940 at this after-hours event featuring immersive live performances, access to the new exhibition, and complimentary beer, wine, and light bites.
All Modern members are invited to enjoy a complimentary coffee in Café Modern ahead of a special, members-only guided tour of the new exhibition Surrealism and Us: Caribbean and African Diasporic Artists since 1940.
For more information or to make reservations, please contact the Membership Department.
In honor of the artists and exhibition, Surrealism and Us: Caribbean and African Diasporic Artists since 1940, Modern members at the Donor’s Circle ($2,500) level and above are invited to enjoy cocktails, dinner, and an immersive preview of the exhibition.
Seating is limited. Reservations are required. For reservations or questions, please contact the Membership Department.
