Maidstone Film Society

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Upcoming films

The Great Escaper (2023) | 9th Sept 2024

UK 97 mins Cert:12

Michael Caine and Glenda Jackson in their final films, a poignant drama that captures the indomitable human spirit through the true story of an elderly war veteran's daring escape from his care home to attend a D-Day commemoration in France. With stellar performances and a touching narrative, the film beautifully captures both his adventure and the enduring bonds of camaraderie and love.

Perfect Days (2023) | 23rd Sept 2024 (CAPTIONED)

Japan/Germany 125 mins Cert: PG

"Perfect Days" is a beautifully meditative film that finds profound beauty in the simplicity of everyday life, anchored by Koji Yakusho's subtly powerful and award-winning performance. Wim Wenders' direction transforms mundane moments into a visual and emotional symphony, celebrating the quiet dignity of ordinary life.

Cairo Conspiracy (Boy from heaven) (2022) | 7th Oct (CAPTIONED)

Sweden/France/Finland 121 mins Cert: 12

"Cairo Conspiracy" is a gripping political thriller that explores the intricate web of power and religious intrigue within one of Egypt's most prestigious Islamic institutions. The film masterfully combines suspense with cultural insight, delivering a gripping narrative that resonates deeply with contemporary issues.

Io Capitano (2024) | 18th Nov 2024 (CAPTIONED)

Italy/Belgium/France 122 mins Cert: 15

“Io Capitano" is a powerful journey of resilience and hope that follows the perilous journey of young Africans as they strive to seek for a better future in Europe. The film expertly captures the heartrending hope of its protagonists, delivering a deeply moving and unforgettable cinematic experience. Filming took place in Senegal, Morocco and Italy and is based on actual stories of migrants.

The Old Oak (2023) | 6th Jan 2025

UK 113 mins Cert: 12

"The Old Oak" is a stirring and compassionate drama that delves into the struggles of a declining pub in a former mining town, poignantly addressing themes of community and resilience. Ken Loach's masterful direction and the film's many strong performances bring to life a story of hope and solidarity in the face of adversity.

The Cow who sang a song into the future (2023) | 20th Jan 2025 (CAPTIONED)

Chile 99 mins Cert: 15

"The Cow Who Sang a Song into the Future" is an unusual yet mesmerizing blend of magical realism and environmental commentary, weaving a hauntingly beautiful narrative about the interconnectedness of all life. Francisca Alegría's directorial debut is both visually stunning and emotionally profound, leaving a lasting impression on its audience.

One Life (2023) | 27th Jan 2025

UK 105 mins Cert: 12

"One Life" is a biographical drama that re tells the extraordinary story of Sir Nicholas Winton, who ended up by saving hundreds of children from the Holocaust by means of the ‘kindertransport’ trains. Anchored by powerful performances from its leads (Anthony Hopkins and Johnny Flynn), the film is both inspiring and profoundly emotional, celebrating the enduring impact of the compassion and bravery of one man in a dark time.

The Promised Land (2023) | 10th Feb 2025 (CAPTIONED)

Denmark/Germany/Sweden 122 mins Cert: 15

"The Promised Land" is a visually stunning and emotionally rich epic that explores the complexities of ambition, power, and survival in 18th-century Denmark. With a compelling central performance from Mads Mickkelson, meticulous direction from Nikolaj Arcel and written by Anders Thomas Jensen (The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo), the film immerses viewers in a gripping narrative of resilience and transformation.

American Fiction (2023) | 17th Feb 2025

USA 119 mins Cert: 15

A Black writer's attempt to condemn literature that plays on racial stereotypes backfires on him in this witty US comedy drama. “American Fiction" is a provocative exploration of identity in contemporary America, blending dark humour with poignant commentary. The film's unique narrative style and strong performances create a thought-provoking and hugely enjoyable experience .

Scrapper (2023) | 10th March 2025

UK 84 mins Cert: 12

Living alone in her London flat, 12-year-old Georgie must confront reality when her estranged father, Jason, shows up out of nowhere. Scrapper is a 2023 British comedy drama film written and directed by Charlotte Regan in her feature debut. The film deals with sometimes difficult themes with warm offbeat humour. It premiered at the 2023 Sundance film festival, where it won a Grand Jury Prize for  World Cinema.

Monster (2023) | 14th April 2025 (CAPTIONED)

Japan 123 mins Cert: 12

"Monster" by Hirokazu Kore-eda is an exploration of family dynamics and the moral complexities that arise when a child's innocence is challenged. The sensitive direction of Kore-eda (director of last year’s Broker) and the heartfelt performances create a deeply affecting narrative. It received widespread critical acclaim with praise for its screenplay, acting, editing and musical score, appearing in many lists of last year’s top ten year's best films.

Vindication Swim (2022) | 12th May 2025 

UK 98 mins Cert: PG

"Vindication Swim" is a compelling biographical drama that dives into the inspiring journey of Mercedes Gleitze, the first British woman to swim the English Channel. With strong performances and evocative storytelling, the film captures both the physical challenges and the emotional triumphs of Gleitze's historic achievement.

DETAILS

Maidstone Film society shows a diverse range of films from the UK and around the world. Membership is open to anyone over the age of 18. Please visit  http://www.maidstone-film-society.org.uk/ for more information.

Monday's 7.30pm - Theatre

Membership prices:

Full £52 | Concession £48 (Full-time Student / Unwaged / Senior)

Temporary Membership | £7 per film

For further information to join contact the Membership Secretary Francois-Yves Belver: 07904 381182

www.maidstone-film-society.org.uk