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With your help, we've been working hard to fulfill our mission of providing Fairfield County with a vibrant center that showcases the best of film. Our Special Events and Guest Speakers Series has introduced many actors, directors, producers, local experts, and academicians to the community (see the Photo Gallery). These events, many in conjunction with local organizations, are a testament to what the Avon can offer. We've also successfully launched many series including Critic's Choice, 35 years in 35mm: The Best of 1971 and Cinema Tropical. Retrospective of Special Events and Guest Speakers: 2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 - 2008 - August 20 The Little Fugitive Critic's Choice This month's Critic's Choice event presented The Little Fugitive with special co-feature Morris Engel: The Independent. Mary Engel, daughter of director Morris Engel, joined the Avon audience for a post-film Q&A. Ann Lewinson, film critic for Fairfield Weekly, hosted the event. August 14 Olympia Special Event Our Cult Classics series presented Vigilante with Robert Forster and Fred Williamson. Director William Lustig stopped by for a post-film Q&A with the Avon audience. August 6 Olympia Special Event Our Documentary Night series presented chapters from Leni Riefenstahl's Olympia, a film widely considered by film critics to be the greatest sports documentary ever made. The event was hosted by John Farr, Best Movies By Farr. July 16 Blindsight Special Event Our Documentary Night series presented a special screening of Blindsight, a gripping adventure set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Himalayas. July 2 Suspiria Critic's Choice This month's Critic's Choice event presented director Dario Argento's Suspiria. The event was hosted by Maitland McDonagh, TV Guide. June 18 Up the Yangtze Special Event Documentary Night and the Stamford Land Conservation Trust co-presented a special screening of Up the Yangtze, an official selection at the 2008 Sundance Film Festival, and a post-film Q&A with author/journalist James Lomuscio. June 10 Some Like It Hot Special Event The Avon and Stamford Downtown Special Services District joined the Avon audience in celebration of Stamford Downtown's Art in Public Places Opening. This special event featured a screening of Some Like It Hot and a Marilyn Monroe look-alike contest with prizes. June 4 Head-On Critic's Choice This month's Critic's Choice event presented director Fatih Akin's passionate and erotic love story, Head-On (Gegen Die Wand). Nathan Lee, a film critic for the Village Voice, hosted the post-film Q&A. May 21 Let's Get Lost Special Event Our Documentary Night series presented the new 35mm print of Let's Get Lost. Gene Seymour, a film/music critic, hosted the event. May 7 Last Tango in Paris Critic's Choice This month's Critic's Choice event included a screening of Last Tango in Paris with a special co-feature Leave You in Me. Joe Meyers, a CT Post film critic, hosted the post-film Q&A with director Dutch Doscher. May 6 Mr. & Mrs. Bridge Special Event The Avon proudly presented a special event, An Evening With James Ivory. The event included a special screening of Mr. & Mrs. Bridge followed by a Q&A with Mr. Ivory. To view photos from this event, please visit our Photo Gallery page. April 23 Taxi to the Dark Side Special Event Our Documentary Night program presented Taxi to the Dark Side, an Academy Award Winner for Best Documentary Feature. The screening was followed by a post-film Q&A with director Alex Gibney. To view photos from this event, please visit our Photo Gallery page. April 11 My Brother is an Only Child Special Event The Avon Theatre and C.I.A.O. (Council for Italian American Organizations) proudly presented the exclusive area engagement of My Brother is an Only Child ( Mio Fratello é Figlio Unico), winner of 4 David di Donatello Awards. The screening was followed by a Q&A with Domenico Delli Carpini, publisher and executive director of circulation for America Oggi, the Italian daily language newspaper in the United States. April 8 Young@Heart Special Event The Avon audience joined us for a members-only sneak preview of the smash hit Young@Heart and a post-film Q&A with director Stephen Walker. April 2 J'Entends Plus La Guitare Critic's Choice The Avon Theatre presented this month's Critic's Choice screening of Philippe Garrel's masterpiece, J'Entends Plus La Guitare. The event was hosted by Kent Jones (Film Comment/Film Society of Lincoln Center). March 26 For the Bible Tells Me So Special Event The Avon Theatre hosted a special screening of For the Bible Tells Me So and a post-film Q&A with writer/director/producer Daniel Karslake. March 13 The Graduate Special Event The Avon Theatre hosted a discussion with author Mark Harris and a book signing of his latest work, Pictures at a Revolution: Five Movies and the Birth of a New Hollywood. This special event was followed by a screening of The Graduate. March 5 The River Critic's Choice The Avon Theatre presented this month's Critic's Choice screening of Jean Renoir's The River. The event was hosted by Ann Lewinson, a film critic for Fairfield Weekly. February 27 Alice Neel Special Event The Avon hosted a Documentary Night event featuring a special screening of Alice Neel with a post-film Q&A with producer/cinematographer Ethan Palmer, moderated by John Farr, Farr On Film / Avon co-founder. February 24 Red Carpet Gala & Oscars® Telecast Special Event The Avon Theatre hosted an inaugural gala with red carpet entry, celebrity entertainment and live Oscars telecast. Tom Bergeron, host of "Dancing With the Stars," served as the master of ceremonies. Guest artists included Randall Atcheson (pianist), Jane Condon (comedienne), and Quinn Lemley (actress/singer). The Avon Theatre was proud to present the Avon Award to Sandy Goldstein and Stamford Downtown Special Services District. To watch a documentary about this event, please click here. February 6 The Duchess of Langeais Critic's Choice The Avon Theatre and the Focus on French Cinema Festival/Alliance Francaise Greenwich co-presented this month's Critic's Choice screening of The Duchess of Langeais. The event was hosted by Anne Kern who is a film professor at SUNY Purchase. February 5 Canvas Special Event The Avon Theatre, Laurel House and No Kidding, Me Too co-presented a very special screening of Canvas and a post-film Q&A with co-stars Joe Pantoliano and Marcia Gay Harden, and with director Joseph Greco. To view photos from this event, please visit our Photo Gallery page. January 29 Pete Seeger: Power of Song Special Event The Avon hosted a special screening of the film and a Q&A session with associate producer Kitama Seeger Jackson, grandson of Pete Seeger, and director Jim Brown. The event was moderated by John Farr (Farr on Film / Avon co-founder). January 23 Imaginary Witness Special Event The Avon hosted a Documentary Night event featuring a special screening of Imaginary Witness: Hollywood and the Holocaust. The event also included a post-film Q&A with director/producer Daniel Anker and complimentary coffee & cookies from Margot Café & Wine Bar! January 9 The Haunting Critic's Choice The Avon presented one of the greatest haunted-house movies ever made, Robert Wise's The Haunting. This monthly event was hosted by Maitland McDonagh (TV Guide).   - 2007 - December 19 Terror's Advocate Documentary NIght The Avon presented Barbet Schroeder's La A'vocat de la Terreur (Terror's Advocate) with a post-film Q&A with Richard Suchenski, Yale University. December 12 Pierrot Le Fou Critic's Choice Joe Meyers (CT Post film critic) hosted this month's Critic's Choice series featuring a new 35mm print of Jean-Luc Godard's classic, Pierrot Le Fou. December 7 Starting Out in the Evening Special Event The Avon hosted an opening night for Starting Out in the Evening with a special guest and the star of the film, Frank Langella. Joe Meyers (CT Post) moderated the post-film Q&A. To view photos from this event, please visit our Photo Gallery page. November 28 On Any Sunday Special Event The Avon and Stamford Museum & Nature Center co-presented this Academy Award nominated film from director Bruce Brown (The Endless Summer). The film was followed by a very special panel Q&A/discussion moderated by Rosa Portell (Stamford Museum's Curator of Collections), & featuring Buzz Kanter(American Iron Magazine and RoadBike publisher), Mike Baldwin (Formula One National Champion), & Mark Zimmerman (expert dirt track racer). November 12 The Woman In Red Wilder's Picks The Avon hosted a special screening of The Woman In Red and a post-film Q&A with writer/director/star Gene Wilder, and co-star Charles Grodin. To view photos from this event, please visit our Photo Gallery page. November 7 Goodbye, Dragon Inn Critic's Choice Nathan Lee (Village Voice film critic) hosted this month's Critic's Choice series featuring Goodbye, Dragon Inn. November 1 Frank Sinatra: The Family Album Special Event The Avon hosted a special book signing/discussion with author Charles Pignone and Frank Sinatra's granddaughter, A.J. Lambert and a presentation of rare film footage from the Sinatra family archive. October 29 City For Conquest Special Event Wilder's Picks presented City For Conquest with an introduction by guest host Gene Wilder. This heart-tugging melodrama stars James Cagney, Ann Sherian, Anthony Quinn, film-debuting Arthur Kennedy and in a rare acting turn before becoming a director, Elia Kazan. October 24 Abduction Special Event The Avon hosted a Documentary Night co-presented by Creative Visions Foundations. The event featured the film Abduction, a moving and emotional testement to the unbreakable bonds of love, and a post-film Q&A with co-directors Chris Sheridan and Patty Kim & Creative Visions CEO/founder Kathy Eldon. October 22 Reservation Road Special Event The Avon hosted a members-only sneak preview of this new film shot locally around Stamford & Fairfield county and starring Joaquin Phoenix, Mark Ruffalo, Jennifer Connelly & Mira Sorvino. Joe Meyers from CT Post moderated a post-film Q&A with author/co-screenwriter John Burnham Schwartz. To view photos from this event, please visit our Photo Gallery page. October 15 Random Harvest Special Event Wilder's Picks presented Mervin Leroy's classic film Random Harvest with an introduction by guest host Gene Wilder. October 10 Sex and the City Special Event As part of the Breast Cancer Awareness Month celebration, the Avon hosted a special Girl's Night Out event celebrating the spirit of women with cosmopolitans, delicious treats and a free screening of classic "Sex and the City" episodes. August 30 The Crystal Ballroom Special Guests The Avon hosted a special free screening and movie premiere of The Crystal Ballroom. The screening was followed by a post-film Q&A with director Cheryl Cambras. August 22 A Sidewalk Astronomer Special Guests Documentary Night at the Avon presented a special screening of A Sidewalk Astronomer: A Film About Astronomy, Cosmology & John Dobson, followed by a Q&A with director Jeffrey Jacobs and astronomer John Dobson.To view photos from this event, please visit our Photo Gallery page. August 8 Expresso Bongo Critic's Choice Maitland McDonagh (TV Guide Film Critic) hosted this month's Critic's Choice series featuring Val Guest's 1959 Brit Beat Classic, Expresso Bongo. With a screenplay by Wolf Mankowitz and syncopated style to burn, director Val Guest's Expresso Bongo sizzles with authenticity, and is a witty, smart, entertaining exploration of one facet of the "Brit Beat" phenomenon. July 18 Plagues and Pleasures on the Salton Sea Special Event The Avon hosted a special Documentary Night at the Avon event with a screening of Plagues and Pleasures on the Salton Sea followed by a Q&A with producer/director Chris Metzler. July 12 The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie Critic's Choice Joe Meyers (Connecticut Post Film Critic) hosted this month's Critic's Choice series featuring Luis Buñuel's deliciously satiric masterpiece in which Fernando Rey, Stéphane Audran, Delphine Seyring, and Jean-Pierre Cassel head the extraordinary cast of this 1972 Oscar winner for Best Foreign Film. June 25 The Unforeseen Special Event The Avon and Stamford Land Conservation Trust were proud to present a special screening of The Unforeseen and a post-film Q&A with director Laura Dunn. June 19 A Mighty Heart Special Event The Avon hosted a Members Appreciation Night featuring a free members-only sneak preview of A Mighty Heart starring Angelina Jolie. June 14 La Vie En Rose Special Event The Avon hosted a special advance screening of La Vie En Rose with complimentary French wine and cheese. This event was limited only to members of the Avon & Alliance Francaise. June 13 Nancy Drew Special Event This sold out event featured a special sneak preview of Nancy Drew, a post-film Q&A with the star of the film, Emma Roberts, and an introduction by Alexandra Porter. The Q&A was hosted by Tess Porter (Greenwich Academy student). To view photos of Emma Roberts please visit our Avon Gallery page. June 6 Gentlemen Prefer Blondes Critic's Choice Melissa Anderson (Time Out New York) hosted this month's Critic's Choice series featuring Howard Hawks' Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, starring Jane Russell and Marilyn Monroe. May 30 Glacier Bay Special Event The Avon hosted a special screening of Glacier Bay and a post-film discussion/Q&A with James Noble (Producer/Co-Star), Dorothy Bryce (Co-Star) and Colleen Murphy (Co-Star). The film has been chosen as an official selection in over 20 international film festivals! May 23 Buddy Special Event Documentary Night at the Avon presented a special screening of Buddy: The Rise and Fall of America's Most Notorious Mayor and a post-film Q&A with writer/producer/director Cherry Arnold. To view photos from this event, please visit our Photo Gallery page. May 17 ShowBusiness: The Road to Broadway Special Event The Avon hosted a special screening of ShowBusiness: The Road to Broadway and a post-film discussion/Q&A with director/producer Dori Berinstein, editor Richard Hankin (edited the Oscar-nominated Capturing the Friedmans), and executive producer Mitchell Cannold (executive producer for Dirty Dancing). To view photos from this event, please visit our Photo Gallery page. May 10 The Situation Special Guest: An Evening With Philip Haas Philip Haas, the director of The Situation, stopped by the Avon for a special screening of the film and a Q&A with the audience after the show. To view photos from this event, please visit our Photo Gallery page. May 2 Broadway Danny Rose Critic's Choice John Shields (Norwalk Community College) hosted this month's Critic's Choice series featuring Woody Allen's Broadway Danny Rose. May 1 Beyond the Gates Special Event The Avon Theatre & Trinity Church presented a special one-time screening of Beyond the Gates. Based on true events and filmed in Rwanda with genocide survivors as cast and crew, Beyond the Gates tells their shared story of humanity in the most inhumane circumstances. April 25 Not So Wild a Dream Special Event Documentary Night at the Avon presented Not So Wild a Dream (1988) with co-feature Garbo: Master of Deception (1992) and a double bill Q&A with producer/director Anthony Potter. April 10 Blind Dating Special Guest: An Evening With Jane Seymour The Avon Theatre & Just Books were proud to present a special evening with Jane Seymour. The evening began with a book discussion and signing copies of Jane Seymour's latest work, "Making Yourself At Home: Finding Your Style and Putting It All Together" followed by a special screening of her newest film, Blind Dating. April 4 Kiss Me Deadly Critic's Choice Maitland McDonagh (TV Guide) hosted this month's Critic's Choice series featuring Kiss Me Deadly, an adaptation of the Mickey Spillane novel. Generally considered to be the best of the many films centering on Spillane's classic protagonist and lauded as a primary inspiration and building block for the French Nouvelle Vague, Kiss Me Deadly boasts nightmarish imagery, a careening, sinuous plot, and an unforgettable shock ending. March 28 51 Birch Street Special Guest Writer/director/producer Doug Block joined the Avon audience for a special screening of his documentary film, 51 Birch Street, and a post-film Q&A. The film has been named one of the Top 10 Films of 2006 by A.O. Scott, NY Times, and one of the Top 5 Docs of 2006 by the National Board of Review. March 22 Live Free or Die Special Guest The Avon presented a special sneak preview of Live Free or Die and a special post-film Q/A with writer/director Andy Robin (Stamford native and former writer for Seinfeld). Taking its title from the state motto of New Hampshire, Live Free or Die is a deadpan comedy about a clueless, aspiring criminal named John "Rugged" Rudgate (Aaron Stanford), who spends his days forging rebate coupons and selling speakers out the back of his van. March 19 Cradle Will Rock Special Guest: An Evening With Tim Robbins John Farr moderated and hosted a special screening of the powerful, sweeping, and critically acclaimed film Cradle Will Rock followed by a Q&A with director Tim Robbins. To view photos from this event, please visit our Photo Gallery page. March 13 The Namesake Special Guest: An Evening With Mira Nair Mira Nair, the acclaimed director of Salaam Bombay!, Monsoon Wedding and Vanity Fair, joined the Avon audience for a special screening of The Namesake and a Q&A session after the show. To view photos from this event, please visit our Photo Gallery page. March 12-14 To Die In Jerusalem Documentary Previews The Avon presented a special screening of To Die In Jerusalem, a film which unabashedly explores the Palestinian-Israeli conflict through the personal loss of two families. The film's most revealing moment is in an emotionally charged meeting between the mothers of the girls, presenting the most current reflection of the conflict as seen through their eyes. March 10-15 2006 Academy Award Nominated Shorts Special Screenings The Avon provided a rare opportunity to see this year's Academy Award Nominated Shorts, from both the Animated and Live-Action categories.  Selections spanned the globe and included this year's winners!  March 7 Le Petit Lieutenant Critic's Choice Joe Meyers, a film critic for CT Post, hosted this month's Critic's Choice series featuring Le Petit Lieutenant, a gripping police noir telling the story of Antoine, an ambitious young cop from the provinces who joins a plainclothes crime unit in Paris. March 6-8 White Light, Black Rain Special Event Documentary Previews presented this moving, new film by an Academy Award winner, Steven Okazaki. Okazaki takes us into the lives and memories of ordinary people for whom life changed in the blink of an eye when the United States destroyed the cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki with atomic bombs. To a generation of audiences living in the shadow of a new arms race, the film is a necessary rendering of the price atomic warfare exacts. February 28 Iraq in Fragments Special Event Documentary Night at the Avon presented Iraq in Fragments, an Academy Award Nominatee for Best Documentary. American director James Longly spent more than two years filming in Iraq to create this stunningly photographed, poetically rendered documentary of the war-torn country as seen through the eyes of Sunnis, Shiites and Kurds. February 9 International Stars of Dance Special Event The Avon was pleased to announce a special offer to Avon Theatre members to attend the International Stars of Dance event organized and hosted by the Stamford Center for the Arts. February 7 The Gang's All Here Critic's Choice Glenn Kenny, a film critic for Premiere Magazine, hosted this month's Critic's Choice series featuring The Gang's All Here, the over-the-top 1943 musical directed and choreographed by Busby Berkeley. February 5-7 Ghosts of Abu Ghraib Special Event The Avon was proud to offer a special sneak preview screening of Sundance Festival selection Ghosts of Abu Ghraib directed by an award-winning filmmaker Rory Kennedy. This powerful, restrained, and fiercely compelling film provides an inside look at the abuses that occurred at the Iraqi prison in the fall of 2003. January 31 Black Gold Special Guest Lloyd Parchment, of the Jamaican Gourmet Coffee Company, spoke at The Avon Theatre following the screening of the documentary Black Gold, an eye-opening exploration of the global coffee industry. To view photos from this event, please visit our Photo Gallery page. January 23 That's Life Special Guest The Avon audience joined Chris Lemmon in remembering and paying tribute to his father Jack Lemmon. A special screening of That's Life (1986) was followed by a Q&A and book signing of A Twist of Lemmon: A Tribute To My Father. To view photos from this event, please visit our Photo Gallery page. January 17 3 Women Critic's Choice Nathan Lee, film critic for the NY Film Critic Circle and contributing writer for the NY Times and Village Voice, hosted this month's Critic's Choice series celebrating the great Rober Altman with a special screening of 3 Women. January 4 The Illusionist Special Guest Neil Burger, the writer/director of The Illusionist, joined the Avon audience for a special screening of the film and a Q&A after the show. To view photos from this event, please visit our Photo Gallery page.   - 2006 - December 19 & 20 Storm of Emotions Special Event The Avon hosted a special Documentary Night at the Avon event featuring a highly-acclaimed film, Storm of Emotions, chosen as one of 15 films competing for the final 5 slots in the 2006 Oscar Awards Best Documentary category. December 6 California Split Critic's Choice Joe Meyers, film critic for the Connecticut Post, hosted this month's installment of the Critic's Choice series with a special screening of Robert Altman's fascinating movie, California Split. November 20 Young Frankenstein Special Event Gene Wilder hosted a special three-part series, "Gene Wilder LIVE On Stage With his Picks of his Favorite Flicks!". The following films were screened as part of this series: The Merry Widow (11/6), Toppers Takes a Trip (11/13), and Young Frankenstein (11/20). To view photos from this event, please visit our Photo Gallery page. November 19 Heartburn Special Guest The Avon Theatre and Just Books were proud to host An Evening With Nora Ephron. Nora Ephron, one of America's most beloved authors, joined the Avon audience for a book discussion and a Q&A session about her latest work, I Feel Bad About My Neck And Other Thoughts on Being a Woman. The discussion was followed by a special screening of Heartburn (1986) starring Meryl Streep & Jack Nicholson. To view photos from this event, please visit our Photo Gallery page. October 23 Faces Special Guests The Avon Theatre was proud to present An Evening With Seymour Cassel. The event included a wine & cheese reception, a special screening of John Cassavetes' Faces, and a post-film Q&A with Mr. Cassel, hosted by Joe Meyers (CT Post critic). October 13 Paint the Town Pink Special Guests The Avon hosted "Mothers, Daughters & Cancer: Tales from the Frontline" sponsored by Paint the Town Pink and Stamford Hospital's Carl and Dorothy Bennett Cancer Center. Elizabeth Flock and her mother, Barbara Brack, who supported each other's journey through cancer treatment and recovery, shared their experiences as caregiver and patient, including the highs, lows and everything in between. October 4 To Die For Critic's Choice Just Books & The Avon Theatre presented An Insider's Look At Nicole Kidman, hosted by David Thomsom, film critic, historian, and author of the new biography, Nicole Kidman. A special screening of To Die For was followed by book signing and discussion with the Avon audience. October 4 The Gold Bracelet Special Event The Avon was proud to host the Connecticut Film Festival '06 featuring two films, The Things That Hang From Trees and The Gold Bracelet. September 20 I Am Cuba Critic's Choice Ann Lewinson, film critic for the Fairfield Weekly, hosted this month's Critic's Choice series which featured a restored 35mm print of a classic film I Am Cuba. September 6 We Came To Remember Special Guest Retired Vice-Admiral Ralph Weymouth stopped by the Avon for a special screening of a short documentary about his World War II unit and stayed after the show for a Q&A with the audience. August 30 Little Miss Sunshine Special Guest Paul Dano, the star of Little Miss Sunshine, joined the Avon audience for a Q&A following the screening of the film. August 15 Heading South Special Guest Karen Young, the co-star of Heading South (Vers Le Sud), stopped by the Avon for a special screening of the film and a post-film Q&A with the audience. See pictures from the event. August 9 Army of Shadows Critic's Choice Joe Meyers, film critic for the Connecticut Post, hosted this month's Critic's Choice series which featured Army of Shadows, a color restored 35mm print of Jean Pierre Melville's lost masterpiece based on the novel by Joesph Kessel (Belle de Jour) never before released in the United States. July 18 After Innocence Special Guest Robert Nave (Amnesty International) moderated a discussion on the death penalty following a special screening of After Innocence. July 13 The Amateurs Special Guest Joe Pantoliano (The Sopranos, Memento, Midnight Run), the star of a new film, The Amateurs, stopped by the Avon for a special sneak preview of the film and a Q&A with the audience. See pictures from the event. July 12 Purple Noon Critic's Choice Special guest host Joe Meyers (Connecticut Post) returned to the Avon for a very special presentation of Martin Scorsese's Purple Noon. A Q&A session followed the show. June 24 Wordplay Special Guest Will Shortz, NPR's Puzzlemaster (and the only person to hold a college degree in Enigmatology, the study of puzzles, which he earned from Indiana University in 1974) joined the Avon audience for a special Members-Only sneak preview of a new documentary, Wordplay, and a Q&A after the show. June 20 Tom Jones Special Event Best Movies by Farr presentedTom Jones: A tribute to Albert Finney on his 70th birthday. The event was hosted by John Farr (co-founder of the Avon, Stamford Advocate film columnist). June 1 An Inconvenient Truth Special Event The Avon Theatre & Stamford Land Conservation Trust proudly presented a Members Only sneak preview screening of AN INCONVENIENT TRUTH. The screening was followed by a Q&A with Peter Goldmark, Program Director of Climate and Air for Environmental Defense. May 23 The Fallen Idol Special Guest Robert Henrey is known and widely recognized throughout the Stamford and Greenwich communities for his invaluable contributions as a Deacon with Greenwich Hospital.  But back in 1948, he was an eight-year old “Bobby” Henrey, child actor and star of The Fallen Idol.  It would turn out to be his final film role.  Mr. Henrey made a very rare public speaking appearance to reminisce about his brief stint as a kid in the movie business, working on The Fallen Idol, and his surprise upon discovering that the film had been restored, re-released and received warmly by audiences and critics nationwide. The event was moderated by Bruce Goldstein (Rialto Pictures/Film Forum). May 10 Bonjour Tristesse Critic's Choice Hosted by film critic Glenn Kenny, this month's Critic's Choice selection featured Otto Preminger's Bonjour Tristesse. May 7 The Sweet Smell of Success Special Guest George Stevens, Jr., founder of the American Film Institute, stopped by the Avon for a book signing & discussion of "The Great Moviemakers of Hollywood's Golden Age at the AFI", followed by a special screening of The Sweet Smell of Success (co-written by Ernest Lehman and photographed by James Wong Howe, both of whom are featured interviewees in the book). May 3 Why We Fight Special Guest Eugene Jarecki (The Trials Of Henry Kissinger, The Opponent) whose latest film, WHY WE FIGHT, explores the military-industrial complex and the motivating forces that lead us to war joined the Avon audience for a Q&A following a special screening of his film. April 27 Water Special Event Members Appreciation Night: The Avon Theatre members enjoyed our FREE Members-Only sneak preview of Deepa Metha’s WATER. April 19 Klute Special Guest Jane Fonda joined the Avon audience for a book signing of My Life So Far and a Q&A following a special 35th anniversary presentation of Ms. Fonda's Oscar winning performance in Klute. April 15 The Great Muppet Caper Special Guest Jane Henson, wife of Jim Henson the creator of Sesame Street, The Muppets, and Fraggle Rock, stopped by the Avon for a special 25th anniversary screening of The Great Muppet Caper and a Q&A after the film. April 11 Thank You For Smoking Special Guest Christopher Buckley, author of the book Thank You For Smoking, upon which the smash hit movie is based joined the Avon audience for a very special post-film Q&A. Mr. Buckley is a political satirist and author of several novels. An editor at Forbes Magazine, Mr. Buckley spent many childhood days watching movies at the Avon Theatre. April 6 Il Conformista Critic's Choice Joe Meyers, film critic for the Connecticut Post, hosted this month's Critic's Choice series which featured a new 35mm print of Il Conformista (The Conformist). April 5 Keeper of the Kohn Guest Speakers The star Peter Kohn and the director David Gaynes stopped by the Avon Theater for a post-film Q&As following the screenings of the film. March 11 Neil Young: Heart of Gold Guest Speaker Film editor Andy Keir stopped by the Avon to share his experiences of going on the road with director Jonathan Demme to capture and edit musician Neil Young's two-night performance at the historic Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, TN. March 8 White Hunter Black Heart Critic's Choice David McKenna, professor of film at Columbia University who has directed over 100 productions on Broadway, off-Broadway, off-off-Broadway and in regional theatre and who has written countless movie commentaries, hosted this month's Critic's Choice series which featured Clint Eastwood's classic White Hunter Black Heart. March 4 Brooklyn Lobster Guest Speakers The star of the film, Danny Aiello, and the director, Kevin Jordan, joined the Avon audience for a screening of Brooklyn Lobster and a post-film Q&A. March 3 Brooklyn Lobster Guest Speaker Kevin Jordan, director of Brooklyn Lobster, stopped by the Avon for a post-film Q&A with the audience. Jordan's other films include Kundun, and Smiling Fish and Goat on Fire. His next project, Flickerbox, is a narrative feature that takes places during the film patent wars of the early 1900. January 11 In Cold Blood Critic's Choice Ann Lewinson, film critic for The Fairfield County Weekly, hosted this month's Critic's Choice event presenting In Cold Blood (a new 35mm print courtesy of Sony Pictures Reperory!). January 5, 2006 Ballets Russes Special Guest New York Times dance writer Jack Anderson hosted a special special Q&A session with Frederic Franklin dance legend & star of Ballets Russes. The Avon staff extends special thanks to Bill Schneider, an Avon member and local resident, without whose volunteered efforts this special evening would not have been possible!   - 2005 - December 14 Blow Out Critic's Choice Special guest host Joe Meyers (Connecticut Post) returned to the Avon for a very special presentation of Brian DePalma's Blow Out, starring John Travolta and Nancy Allen. A Q&A session followed the show. November 14 On The Waterfront Special Guest Richard Schickel, author, critic, and filmmaker, was on hand to sign copies of his latest book, Elia Kazan: A Biography, and to conduct a post-film discussion of Kazan's 1954 masterpiece, On The Waterfront, starring Marlon Brando, karl Malden, and Eva Marie Saint. November 9 The Producers Special Event Joe Meyers, a film critic for the Connecticut Post, hosted a restored 35mm presentation of The Producers. A special Q&A with Gene Wilder followed the film. To view photos from the event, please visit our Photo Gallery. November 5 Good Night, And Good Luck Special Event Joe & Shirley Wershba, former CBS News veterans, joined us for a special screening of Good Night, And Good Luck and a panel discussion moderated by Mitchell Krauss, former CBS News correspondent & former President of the World Affairs Forum. November 3 Northfork Special Event Mark & Michael Polish, the writer/director brothers behind Twin Falls Idaho, Jackpot, and this evening's film, Northfork, starring James Woods and Nick Nolte, were on hand to discuss the movie and chat about their new book, The Declaration Of Independent Filmmaking. October 29 Good Night, And Good Luck Special Guest Ruth Friendly, the widow of former CBS President Fred Friendly, joined us at the Avon for a screening of Good Night, And Good Luck and a post-film Q&A with the audience. Mrs. Friendly now serves as the Vice President of the Fred Friendly Seminars. October 26 A Streetcar Named Desire Critic's Choice David Thomson, acclaimed film writer and historian (author of The New Biographical Dictionary Of Film, The Whole Equation: A History Of Hollywood) who edited the re-discovered novel FAN TAN, co-written by Marlon Brando and Donald Cammell, stopped by the Avon to discuss this little-known and recently revealed side of Brando the author. The screening of A Streetcar Named Desire (1951) was followed by a discussion of Brando's first collaboration with director Elia Kazan, as the memorable Stanley Kowalski. October 25 The Little Shop of Horrors Meet the Director Roger Corman, the King of B-Movies, stopped by the Avon for a Halloween celebration: a screening of his film, The Little Shop of Horrors, and a Q&A with the audience. Roger Corman has directed over 50 films and produced over 300! A legend among legends! October 21 Good Night, And Good Luck Special Guests CBS News veterans, Richard C. Hottelet & Emerson Stone, joined us on the opening night of Good Night, And Good Luck for a panel discussion moderated by Mitchell Krauss. To view photos from the event, please visit our Photo Gallery. October 19 The Squid And The Whale Special Guest William Baldwin, co-star and scene stealer in The Squid And The Whale, the acclaimed new film from wrtier/director Noah Baumbach, joined us at the Avon for a very special screening of the film and a Q&A with the audience. October 6 The Agronomist Special Event The Avon Theater together with the Haiti Lumiere de Demain organization hosted a special screening and panel discussion of The Agronomist. Monica Attell and Wiliam Fitzgerald joined us as panelists, and Louis Elneus presided as a moderator. The goal of this event was to inform the general public about Haiti and the work of Haiti Lumiere de Demain. To read more about the event, please click here. September 24 Paintings by Ivan Mitsyk and Ethnic Artifacts Special Art Exhibit The Russian American Horizons and the Avon Theatre were proud to present to the public a one-day art exhibit, Paintings by Ivan Mitsyk and Ethnic Artifacts, displaying the works of Ivan Mitsyk in the Avon lounge. September 20 Winter Soldier Special Event Co-directors, Bob Fiore & Michael Lesser, and war veteran, Jack Smith, stopped by the Avon for a panel discussion following a special screening of Winter Soldier, a documentary about the 1971 Winter Soldier Investigation conducted by activist group, Vietnam Veterans Against The War. More about the event here. September 14 The Front Critic's Choice Professor Ernest Giglio joined us at the Avon for our monthly Critic's Choice series to present Martin Ritt's The Front , starring Woody Allen and Zero Mostel. August 3 Heir to an Execution Special Guest Morton Sobell, a co-defendant in the Rosenberg trial (convicted for conspiring to violate espionage laws) and a lifelong friend of the Rosenbergs, joined us for a special screening of a documentary Heir to an Execution (written and directed by Ivy Meeropol, grandaughter of Ethel and Julius Rosenberg) and a Q&A session after the show. July 29 Murderball Meet the Director Henry-Alex Rubin, the co-director and cinematographer of Murderball, a documentary about tough, highly competitive quadriplegic rugby players, stopped by the Avon for a Q&A session with the audience following the screening of his film. July 19 Grey Gardens Meet the Director Albert Maysles (Meet Marlon Brando, Salesman, Gimme Shelter) joined us at the Avon for a rare public presenation of Grey Gardens, a documentary film which tells the unbelievable but true story of Mrs. Edith Bouvier Beale and her daughter Edie, the aunt and first cousin of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. July 14 Carmen & Geoffrey Guest Speakers Geoffrey Holder and Carmen De Lavallade, a couple and virtually a New York institution, stopped by the Avon for a Q&A with the audience following the documentary Carmen & Geoffrey, an intimate, exhilarating portrait of these two remarkable personalities and careers. July 11 The Parallax View Critic's Choice Joe Meyers, a film critic for The Connecticut Post, hosted this month's Critic's Choice series featuring Alan J. Pakula's The Parallax View, one of the great political conspiracy thrillers of the '70s. June 15 My Life As A Dog Meet The Director Academy Award nominated director Lasse Hallstrom joined us as the Avon for a rare theatrical presentation of his acclaimed film My Life As A Dog and a discussion with the audience after the film. To see photos from the event, please visit our Photo Gallery. June 12 A League of Ordinary Gentlemen Guest Speakers Director Chris Browne, and producers Alex Brown and Bill Bryan stopped by the Avon for a screening of their award winning bowling documentary, A League of Ordinary Gentlemen, and a Q&A session with the audience. To see photos from the event, please visit our Photo Gallery. June 6 The Asphalt Jungle Critic's Choice Stephen Schaefer of The Boston Herald joined us at the Avon for our Critic's Choice series to present John Huston's The Asphalt Jungle, a film which, released in 1950 at the height of crime-noir's popularity on the silver screen, redefined the genre. May 28 Mad Hot Ballroom Meet The Director Marilyn Agrelo, the director of Mad Hot Ballroom, a film which profiles several of New York City's public school kids and their journey into the world of ballroom dancing, stopped by the Avon for a screening of the film and a Q&A session after the show. May 27 Mad Hot Ballroom Guest Speakers Emma Biegacki and Sid Grant, the stars of Mad Hot Ballroom, were on hand for a Q&A session following the show. Ms. Biegacki is one of the students featured in the film, and Mr. Grant is one of the dance coaches. He is also a senior teaching artist for the American Ballroom Theatre company. To see photos from the event, please visit our Photo Gallery. May 24 The Good, The Bad & The Ugly Guest Speaker Eli Wallach, the iconic star of stage and screen and official King of Brooklyn, joined the Avon audience for a special screening of the restored 35mm classic, The Good, The Bad & The Ugly. The film was immediately followed by a Q&A and book signing of Mr. Wallach's new memoir, The Good, The Bad, And Me: In My Anecdotage. To see photos from the event, please visit our Photo Gallery. May 23 Murder In A Small Town Special Event Gene Wilder joined us for the Stamford Theatre Works annual benefit and a screeing of Murder In a Small Town followed by a Q&A. May 12 Enron Guest Speaker Bethany McLean, senior Fortune magazine writer, author of The Smartest Guys in the Room, the book on which the film Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room is based, was on hand afer the show for a post-film Q&A. May 6 Enron Guest Speaker Alex Gibney, an Emmy Award-winning writer, producer and director, joined us for a post-film Q&A on the opening night of his newest film, Enron: The Smartest Guys In The Room which exposes one of the history's greatest business scandals. April 25 Masculine Feminine Critic's Choice Ann Lewinson of Fairfield County Weekly joined us at the Avon for our Critic's Choice series to present the restored 35mm re-release print of Jean Luc Godard's Masculine Feminine. April 10 Paper Clips Guest Speaker Mr. Matthew Hiltzik, Executive Producer, was on hand for a post-film Q&A in this exclusive engagement of Paper Clips, the inspiring documentary that captures how a group of students learned about the Holocaust. April 6 Memento Special Event Dean Sluyter, a film critic, author, and meditation teacher, joined us for a screening of the mind-bending cult classic Memento and a signing of his new book CINEMA NIRVANA: Enlightenment Lessons from the Movies. April 2 Off The Map Special Event Director Campbell Scott and Film Editor Andy Keir, were on hand to discuss Off The Map, starring Joan Allen, Sam Elliot and J.K. Simmons; the film marks Campbell Scott's fourth directorial effort. Read more on the event. March 31 Night Moves Special Event Arthur Penn, three time Academy Award nominee for Best Director, was at the Avon for this 30th anniversary screening of Night Moves. Penn is a great American auteur who transformed contemporary cinema in the '60s & '70s. March 30 Land of Plenty Special Event Wim Wenders, legendary German filmmaker (The American Friend, Wings of Desire, Buena Vista Social Club), stopped by the Avon to promote a special sneak preview of his latest feature, Land of Plenty. March 14 A Perfect World Critic's Choice Kent Jones, a critic for Film Comment and programmer for the Film Society of Lincoln Center, hosted a special presentation of Academy Award winner Clint Eastwood's A Perfect World. March 13 Downfall Special Event Brian Hanran from the Germanic Studies department at Columbia University joined us for this area exclusive engagement of Downfall, nominated for the Academy Award for best foregin language film, and "a powerful and artistically masterful re-creation of the last days of the Third Reich." February 18 Hotel Rwanda Special Event World Vision partnered with the Avon to present a special evening with Terry George, Director of Hotel Rwanda. World Vision "helps children and their communities worldwide reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty." Read more on the event. February 17 Safavieh Reception Special Event Safavieh Helps the Avon Celebrate Safavieh, Stamford's Fine Home Furnishings Center, located at 230 Atlantic Street hosted a special reception to mark our one year anniversary. February 10 Peter Bogdanovich Special Event The Avon Celebrates its 1st Anniversary We proudly celebrated the completion of the Avon's first successful year with special guest filmmaker Peter Bogdanovich. We revisited Mr. Bogdanovich's classic film, Saint Jack, and hosted an intimate Q&A and book signing of his latest book, "Who The Hell's In It?" January 31 Imitation of Life Critic's Choice David Sterritt, veteran film critic for the Christian Science Monitor, presents Mr. Douglas Sirk’s final feature film, Imitation of Life (1959), starring Lana Turner, John Gavin, Juanita Moore and Sandra Dee. The movie chronicles the struggles of two mothers with very different problems who establish a friendship purely by accident, but forge a bond that brings them together for life. January 29 Hotel Rwanda Guest Speaker Mr. Stanislas Kamanzi, the Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Rwanda to the United Nations joins us for a special screening of Hotel Rwanda, along with a special post-film Q&A and discussion. The movie tells the inspiring story of real life hero Paul Ruseabagina (Don Cheadle), a hotel manager in Rwanda who used his courage and cunning to shelter over a thousand refugees from certain death. January 15 Hotel Rwanda Guest Speaker Professor Amanda Carlson, Assistant Professor in African Art History at the University of Hartford, leads a post-film discussion and Q&A, at this special showing of Hotel Rwanda. January 8, 2005 The Woodsman Guest Speaker Jami Bernard, New York Daily News Film Critic, at this exclusive area engagement, introduces the brilliant new movie, The Woodsman, a harrowing and moving tale of one man's attempt to re-enter society as a convicted sex offender. Actor Kevin Bacon delivers one of his finest performances in years.   - 2004 - November 13 Sideways Guest Speaker At this exclusive area engagement of Sideways, the new comedy from writer/director Alexander Payne (About Schmidt, Election), authors Andreas Fuchs and Ross Melnick were on hand to discuss and sign copies of the book Cinema Treasures: A New Look at Classic Movie Theater —which includes the newly restored Avon. November 11 The Heartbreak Kid Special Event An Evening with Actor Charles Grodin, Hosted by Film Critic Janet Maslin — In conjunction with the Westport Country Playhouse, the Avon presents a special screening of The Heartbreak Kid (1972), with a unique post-film discussion and Q&A. November 5 Stage Beauty Special Event The United Way of Stamford, as part of the Avon's Partnership Program, hosts a special awards ceremony in honor of one its board members, and screens Stage Beauty, the latest film from director Richard Eyre (Iris). November 4 People Say I'm Crazy Special Event Benefit Screening of People Say I'm Crazy sponsored by Pathways of Greenwich. Director John Cadigan and director/producer Katie Cadigan were Pathways' special guests and had a personal dialogue with the audience about mental illness. People Say I'm Crazy is the first autobiographical documentary ever filmed by someone suffering with schizophrenia. October 22 Stage Beauty Special Event Glenn Kenny — Film Critic and Senior Editor of Premiere magazine was on hand to conduct a post-film discussion and Q&A, at an exclusive area engagement of Stage Beauty, a hit at the 2004 Toronto Film Festival, Stage Beauty stars Claire Danes and Billy Crudup. October 15 The Motorcycle Diaries Guest Speaker Professor Jose Mora — Professor of Latin American Studies & Political Science for UCONN-Stamford was on hand to lead a post-film discussion and Q&A. The Motorcycle Diaries follows the journey of self-discovery, tracing the origins of a revolutionary heart of Ernesto Guevara, best known as "Che Guevara", who in 1952 is a 23-year-old medical student specializing in leprology. September 7 Uncovered: The War on Iraq Guest Speaker Professor Geoff Porter — Trinity College Professor of Middle East History and Political Analyst from the Eurasia Group was on hand as a guest speaker to conduct a post-film lecture and Q&A. Uncovered: The War On Iraq, is the new documentary from Robert Greenwald (Outfoxed) which chronicles the Bush Administration's determined quest to invade Iraq following 9/11. August 27 Broadway: The Golden Age Guest Speaker Rick McKay — Director was on hand as a guest speaker to conduct a post-film lecture for his new documentary Broadway: The Golden Age. This film is considered to be one of the most ambitious and comprehensive film made about America's most celebrated indigenous art form. Broadway has won thirteen Best Film, Documentary and Audience Awards. August 20 Maria Full of Grace Guest Speaker Jeffery Galperin — Port Chester, NY, Attorney, lent his unique insight and perspective in a post-film discussion and Q&A. A bilingual attorney, Mr. Galperin has represented many "drug mules" detained at JFK airport, such as the film's Maria. Maria Full of Grace was the Audience Award Winner at the 2004 Sundance Film Festival. August 14 Dona Flor and Her Two Husbands Guest Speaker Tom LaSalle — Stamford Ferguson Librarian presents a brand new 35mm print of the 1977 Brazilian classic Dona Flor and Her Two Husbands as part of the Avon Classics at High Noon. Based on the novel by Jorge Amado, this Brazilian comedy follows the strange events that befall Doña Flor (Sonia Braga) after she is left a widow. August 7 Maria Full of Grace Special Event Cast and Crew of Maria Full of Grace. In conjunction with the Hispanic Advisory Council of Greater Stamford, the Avon held a special evening with Orlando Tobon, associate producer and supporting actor of Maria Full of Grace. Guest host Harlan Jacobson (WFUV, USA Today, Talk Cinema) interviewed Tobon and other cast members in a post-film Q&A/discussion. July 24 Rashomon Guest Speaker Professor Cheryl Cambras — Professor of Film Studies UCONN is special guest speaker to our presentation of legendary Japanese film maker Akira Kurosawa's Rashomon (1951), part of the Avon's Trip Around The World Series. July 23 Riding Giants Guest Speaker John Motay — Advisory Board Member, longtime surfer and documentarian introduced Riding Giants and led a post-film discussion at this premiere area engagement. The film (from legendary surfer/skater/director Stacy Peralta) provides an enchanting look at the history of big wave surfing and was the opening night selection at the 2004 Sundance Film Festival. July 7 The 400 Blows Guest Speaker Professor Cheryl Cambras — Professor of Film Studies UCONN introduces Francois Truffaut's The 400 Blows which won the 1959 "Best Director" prize at the Cannes Film Festival . July 14 Liberty Heights, Tin Men Special Event Barry Levinson — Celebrated Film Director provides introductory commentary and leads a post-film discussion/Q&A, at this special evening hosted by the Avon, showing a Levinson-double feature: Liberty Heights, starring Adrien Brody, and Tin Men starring Danny DeVito. June 27 Riding Giants Special Event Joni Steele-Kimberlin — Avon Theatre Advisory Board Member, holds a special event for this premier area engagement of Riding Giants. June 26 Caddyshack Special Event Chevy Chase — Local Celebrity and legendary funnyman makes a very special guest appearance at our Film at Eleven series and introduces the all-time comedy classic Caddyshack. June 24 Control Room Guest Speaker Professor Geoff Porter — Visiting Professor of Middle East History, Trinity College/Analyst for Middle East and North Africa at Eurasia Group leads a post-film discussion and Q&A. From director Jehane Noujaim, Control Room examines the pressing questions about the war in Iraq. The Avon screens this acclaimed documentary in association with The World Affairs Forum. June 22 Control Room Guest Speaker Panel Discussion on Control Room Co-Sponsored by The World Affairs Forum, featuring Paul Janensch/ WNPR Media Commentator; Rosemary Shinko/UCONN Stamford Professor of Political Theory; Mitchell Krauss/ Former CBS News Correspondent. June 18 Control Room Guest Speaker Professor Cheryl Cambras — Professor of Film Studies UCONN leads a post-film discussion and Q&A on Control Room. June 13 Avon Theatre 65th Anniversary Celebration Special Event Weiss Family Descendants gather to commemorate the Avon's original opening in 1939. June 11 BADASSSSS! Guest Speaker Charles Shepherd — President and CEO of the Urban League of Southwestern Connecticut introduced Baadasssss!, directed by and starring Mario Van Peebles; it tells the story of Mario's father, Melvin, as he embarked on a mission to make the film Sweet Sweetback's Baadasssss Song in 1971. May 5 The Company, McCabe and Mrs. Miller Special Event Robert Altman — Celebrated Film Director introduces his newest film The Company, starring Neve Campbell, as part of the Avon's month-long celebration of Mr. Altman's body of work. The Company, an intimate look at the world of ballet, follows up on Altman's stunning success of the Academy Award-winning Gosford Park. May 1 Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory Special Event Gene Wilder — Local Celebrity and Avon Advisory Board Member helps the Avon launch its Saturday morning Kidz Flix series, with this timeless children's classic. May 1 Twilight Samurai Guest Speaker Reina Higashitan — Japan Society Film Center of NY; a filmmaker and writer, Ms. Higashitani leads a post-film discussion and Q&A. Directed by Yoji Yamada, Twilight Samurai is set in the late nineteen century as the feudal Shogun period was giving way to the Meiji Restoration. April 28 Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter… Spring Guest Speaker Panom Villay — practicing Buddhist and member of the Stratford, CT Laotian Buddhist Temple. Villay facilitated a very special introduction and post-film discussion of this exclusive local engagement of director Kim Ki-duk's exquisite film about Buddhism, Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter...Spring. April 24 Suddenly, Last Summer Guest Speaker Rosemary Mankiewicz, widow of film director, Joseph L. Mankiewicz, and Avon Theatre Advisory Board member, introduces her husband's film Suddenly, Last Summer, starring Katharine Hepburn, as part of Avon Classics at High Noon. April 4 Modern Times Guest Speaker Bruce Lawton & Alice Arzt — Silent Cinema & Film Restoration Experts present a fully restored version of Chaplin's masterpiece Modern Times, as part of Chaplin Week at the Avon. March 23 The Return Guest Speaker Yelena Klompus — World Languages Librarian Ferguson Library, Stamford, CT, was on hand to introduce and act as a guest speaker for a post-film lecture and Q&A, at the Fairfield County premiere engagement of The Return, winner of the Golden Lion (Best Picture) at the 2003 Venice Film Festival. March 10 My Architect Guest Speaker Diane Harp-Jones — Member of the CT Chapter of AIA. The Avon hosts the CT Chapter of The American Institute of Architects for a special screening of, and post-film discussion/Q&A on My Architect: A Son's Journey the Oscar-nominated documentary by architect Louis Kahn's son, Nathaniel. March 5 Battle of Algiers Guest Speaker Robert Kesten — Professor UCONN/Stamford, Founder Director’s View Film Festival leads a post-film discussion/Q&A, focusing on the film's impact on counter-intelligence today in the wake of global terrorism.   March 2 My Architect