Two films, "Red Fever" and "Vermiglio," are playing at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln's Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center through March 20.
"Red Fever" is a witty and entertaining documentary about the profound yet hidden Indigenous influence on Western culture and identity. The film follows Cree co-director Neil Diamond as he asks, “Why do they love us so much?” and sets out on a journey to find out why the world is so fascinated with the stereotypical imagery of Native people that is all over pop culture.
Why have Indigenous cultures been revered, romanticized and appropriated for so long, and to this day? "Red Fever" uncovers the surprising truths behind the imagery so buried in history that even most Native people don’t know about them.
"Red Fever" is not rated and is playing until March 20.
"Vermiglio," Maura Delpero’s visionary film, which won the Silver Lion at the 2024 Venice Film Festival, is a singular portrait of a sprawling family, set in the small, mountainous village of Vermiglio during the waning days of World War II. The film follows a series of dramatic, consequential events after the arrival of a taciturn Sicilian soldier (Giuseppe De Domenico), who hides out in town after deserting the army. While there, the soldier develops a romance with the family’s eldest daughter, Lucia (Martina Scrinzi).
"Vermiglio" shows the lives of a provincial family in a remote village suspended in time by the customs of a fading era. Conjuring stories from her own family’s past, Delpero creates a deeply personal and human tale that recalls the great neorealist movement in Italian cinema, but through Lucia’s perspective, the film feels distinct and novel. "Vermiglio" was Italy’s official selection for the 2025 Academy Awards.
"Vermiglio" is not rated, and is playing through March 20.
For more information on films, including showtimes and ticket availability, visit the Ross' website.
