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Step Away From 'Star Wars,' See Rare, Cult and Silent Films at NEIU in 2016

By Patty Wetli | January 4, 2016 5:17am | Updated on January 4, 2016 8:22am
 The Northwest Chicago Film Society has released its slate of winter/spring movies set to screen at NEIU.
The Northwest Chicago Film Society has released its slate of winter/spring movies set to screen at NEIU.
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Facebook/Northwest Chicago Film Society

NORTH PARK — If you're speaking Wookiee around the house, maybe that hundredth viewing of "The Force Awakens" is overkill.

The Northwest Chicago Film Society has the perfect antidote to blockbuster fever: a slate of rare, classic, cult and silent movies set to screen this winter and spring at Northeastern Illinois University.

The 2016 season kicks off Jan. 13 with 1935's "Peter Ibbetson," starring Gary Cooper in the title role as one half of a pair of star-crossed lovers.

Other highlights include "Old Ironsides" on Feb. 3, a silent film that will screen with live organ accompaniment, and the 1933 version of "State Fair," a Best Picture nominee shot in the era before movie censors. (Keep an eye out for the scene with the negligee on the floor — extremely racy for its day.)

The film society also presents more recent fare like Gus Van Sant's "My Own Private Idaho," from 1991.

Along with spotlighting the restoration and preservation of 35mm and 16mm film prints, the society also aims to promote the experience of watching movies in a theater, with an audience.

Prints are obtained from various archival sources and private collectors.

All screenings take place at 7:30 p.m. in NEIU's Auditorium, E Building, 3701 W. Bryn Mawr Ave. Tickets are $2 with NEIU ID or $5 for the general public.

Parking is available on campus.

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