Feb. 11 Outing: The Monuments Men

Thanks for your patience in waiting until the second Tuesday of the month to go see The Monuments Men at the Varsity Theatre (Bay & Bloor) on Tuesday, Feb. 11, for the 1:20 screening. So let's gather, as usual, near the box office about 15 minutes earlier. Afterward, those who wish to nosh and chat will go downstairs to our usual Italian restaurant.

The reviews have been tepid but, as always, let's not forget that those are only opinions. This topic is immensely important, with contemporary echoes today, when priceless art is being destroyed and/or threatened in several warring countries. And I think we can agree that George Clooney's film (he directed, co-wrote, co-produced and stars in what is obviously a labour of love) is a special treat to people of our vintage. Some of us remember World War II and the rest of us have racked up enough years and wisdom to value our cultural heritage.

Here are links to two fascinating articles that give a lot of background facts on which the movie is based: 

http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/2014/02/06/art_imitates_life_work_of_real_monuments_men_is_on_display_throughout_europe.html 

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/02/02/arts/design/not-all-monuments-men-were-men.html?action=click&contentCollection=Movies&module=RelatedCoverage&region=Marginalia&pgtype=article 

If you haven't viewed the trailer for the film, here it is:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CreneTs7sGs   

Don't forget to NOTIFY ME BY MONDAY NOON, FEB. 10, if you plan to go to the restaurant, so I can make a reservation for the correct number.

Terry