Two new foreign films — both explorations of repression and survival — open June 6 at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln's Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center.
Winner of the Special Jury Prize at the Venice Film Festival, "April" is anchored by Ia Sukhitashvili’s performance as Nina, an obstetrician in rural Georgia who is accused of malpractice after delivering a stillborn baby. Nina is subsequently subjected to an investigation that threatens to expose her history of flaunting taboo by discreetly providing abortions, and finds herself struggling to bear up under the burden of condemnation from a community whose women desperately need her.
"April" is not rated and is showing through June 12.
In 1954 New Zealand, rebellious teens Nellie (played by Erana James) and Daisy (Manaia Hall) make a daring escape from an institution for delinquent girls — only to be caught and sent to an even more remote facility on an isolated island. There, they are joined by Lou (Nathalie Morris), a well-to-do newcomer, and together they navigate a harsh new world under the strict rule of a devout and domineering Matron (Rima Te Wiata).
Resistant to authority, the trio form an unbreakable bond, rejecting the institution’s rigid expectations and finding solace in their friendship. But as night falls, the island reveals its darker secrets. When experimental punishments threaten to break their spirits, Nellie and Daisy plot rebellion, only to find themselves at odds with Lou, who fears the consequences of defiance. As tensions rise, the girls must choose between survival and resistance in a place designed to erase them.
"We Were Dangerous" is playing through June 19.
"Swamp Dogg Gets His Pool Painted" and "Blue Sun Palace" end their runs at the Ross June 5. For more information on films, including showtimes and ticket availability, visit the Ross' website.
