The Chiaroscuro International Film Series, a beloved fixture of Grand Rapids’ cultural landscape, returns with a vibrant selection of global cinema. Founded in 2005, its mission of cultural connectivity and celebrating the human spirit endures. Spencer Everhart, the Board President, echoes the excitement for its comeback. Every other Sunday, January through March, audiences are treated to diverse international films, fostering understanding and appreciation. Run by volunteers and supported by local entities, admission remains free, ensuring accessibility for all. This year’s theme, “Passageways,” explores the journeys of women across generations and cultures. Chiaroscuro continues to illuminate, enrich, and unite communities through the magic of cinema.
Roll out the red carpet, as a staple of the Grand Rapids film scene is set to return with renewed vigor and excitement. The Chiaroscuro International Film Series, a beloved cultural institution since its founding in 2005, is once again ready to captivate the audiences with its rich selection of international cinema. With a steadfast mission of “Connecting world cultures, promoting greater understanding of diverse people, and celebrating the universal human spirit through exceptional International Cinema”, Chiaroscuro continues to serve as a beacon of cultural exchange and artistic appreciation in the community.
“I believe I speak on behalf of the entire organizing board when I say we are immensely excited for the Chiaroscuro International Film Series to be returning,” expressed Chiaroscuro Board President Spencer Everhart, reflecting the palpable anticipation surrounding the series’ comeback.
The dedication and passion of the organizing board, comprised of local artists, educators, and passionate cinephiles, underscores the profound commitment to bringing diverse cinematic experiences to Grand Rapids’ audiences.
The completely free event hosted by Wealthy Theatre will screen five foreign films focused on the lives of women through history. Scheduled to run every other Sunday, from January to March, the series promises a diverse array of international films carefully curated to resonate with the audiences. Selection criteria, including availability, critical reception, geographical representation, and thematic relevance, ensures a captivating and thought-provoking line up that reflects the global tapestry of human experiences.
With theatrical film distribution as competitive as it is, important movies from around the world don’t always get a chance to be shown in Grand Rapids, so we definitely view Chiaroscuro as providing the region with a connection to films and filmmakers that are not necessarily always represented on our local big screens,” remarked Everhart, highlighting the series’ role in broadening cinematic horizons and fostering cultural understanding.
What sets Chiaroscuro apart is not only its dedication to showcasing international cinema but also its commitment to fostering community engagement and dialogue. Run entirely by volunteers and supported by contributions from universities and local businesses, the series remains free and accessible to all, ensuring that the magic of cinema is within reach for everyone in the community.
“The collective experience of watching a film in a theatre is part of what makes Chiaroscuro special, but it’s the post-screening discussion panel and audience Q&A – followed by a reception featuring food related to the movie’s country of origin – that makes it a unique cinematic experience that is only possible when we gather together,” emphasized Spencer, underscoring the immersive and enriching nature of the Chiaroscuro experience.
This year, the series embraces the theme of “Passageways,” a poignant exploration of the lives of women across different ages and eras. Through five carefully selected screenings, audiences will embark on a journey through time and culture, following the stories of female protagonists as they navigate the passage of time and the complexities of womanhood. From the innocence of youth to the wisdom of old age, each film offers a unique perspective on the universal experiences shared by women around the world.
As Chiaroscuro opens the doors to new cinematic worlds and cultural perspectives, it continues to enrich the lives of moviegoers and foster a deeper appreciation for the diverse tapestry of human experiences. In an ever-changing world, Chiaroscuro remains a steadfast symbol of cultural exchange, artistic expression, and community engagement, ensuring that the magic of cinema continues to illuminate and inspire audiences for years to come.
Written by- Muskan Raj | Edited by- Apurv Nayak
