The Power of Nightmares. Filmmaker Adam Curtis compares the rise of the American Neo-Conservative movement and the radical Islamist movement, noting strong similarities between the two. More controversially, it argues that the threat of radical Islamism as a massive, sinister organized force of destruction, specifically in the form of al-Qaeda, is in fact a myth perpetrated by politicians in many countries—particularly by American Neo-Cons—in an attempt to unite and inspire their people following the failure of earlier, more utopian ideologies. The Power of Nightmares' content and message have been the subject of various critiques and criticisms from both conservatives and progressives, but it remains a compelling work that brings up important issues. The screening will be held as part of the Reclaim Democracy meeting and refreshments will be served. Irvine Ranch Water District Building, 15600 Sand Canyon Ave., Irvine; reclaimdemocracyoc.org. Free.
also showing:
For the Bible Tells Me So. This provocative, entertaining documentary film brilliantly reconciles homosexuality and scripture, and in the process reveals that church-sanctioned anti-gay bias is based almost solely upon a significant misinterpretation of the Bible. I mean, Jesus did tell us to love one another, right? First Congregational Church of Long Beach, 241 Cedar Ave., Long Beach, (562) 436-2256; www.firstchurchlb.org. Sat., 7 p.m. Donations accepted.
Rocky Horror Picture Show.Some do Pilates, some do “The Time Warp.” It's okay, boys, put on some makeup and look fabulous—a lot of girls are into ambiguous sexuality. Well, at least they were in Santa Cruz. QMX Royal Theatre aboard theQueen Mary, 1126 Queens Hwy., Long Beach, (562) 684-4411; www.qmxroyal.com. Sat., midnight. $9.
The Strange Love of Martha Ivers. Kirk Douglas made his film debut opposite Barbara Stanwyck and Van Heflin in this 1946 film. When is the last time you met a man named Van? Directed by Lewis Milestone. The Friday Film Forum will present a preshow program of shorts, cartoons and surprises. Long Beach School for Adults, 3701 E. Willow St., Long Beach, (562) 997-8000. Fri., 7 p.m. $1 materials fee.
Mail your press releases (and a videotape or disc, if available) to Special Screenings,OC Weekly, 1666 N. Main St., Ste. 500, Santa Ana, CA 92701-7417. Or send e-mail to tc****@oc******.com. All materials must be received at least two weeks before the screening.
