Seducing Repertory Cinema into the 21st Century: I Wake Up Dreaming 2014–Dark Treasures from the Warner Archives

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by Elliot Lavine

The idea of programming film noir festivals for a century-old San Francisco art theater sounds like a dream of a gigbag and for 99% of the ride it is. But it’s a little bit like being turned loose in a funhouse with no exit because ultimately it can lead to bouts of insomnia and chronic fits of frustration. It can lead to indigestion and other forms of irritability. But in the end it can also remind you that patience and stamina, although usually in short supply, will win the day.  Continue reading →

Food Revolution SF Events: May 16-18, 2014

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“How can most people submit so unthinkingly to the dehumanizing experience of lifeless fast food that’s everywhere in our lives?  How can you marvel at the world and then feed yourself in a completely un-marvelous way?  I think it’s because we don’t learn the vital relationship of food to agriculture and to culture, and how food affects the quality of our everyday lives.” —Alice Waters  Continue reading →

FORBIDDEN CITY, USA: Chinese American Nightclubs, 1936-1970

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by Gary Meyer

After first seeing Arthur Dong’s movie FORBIDDEN CITY, USA, I wanted more of the eye-opening stories and images about the Bay Area’s fascinating Chinese American nightclubs. The film gave me a rich feel for the exotic atmosphere and the characters who made it a popular scene for all audiences. Now the book Forbidden City, USA: Chinese American Nightclubs, 1936-1970 has arrived and I cannot stop looking and reading.  Continue reading →