Melnitz Movies at UCLA

Tonight, see just what those naked guys with guns really have to do with gangsters in Italian crime-drama Gomorrah. Nominated for Best Foreign Language Oscar, winner of the Grand Prix at Cannes, and Best Film, Director, Screenplay, and Actor at the 2008 European Film Awards. LAist Staff Writer Farley Elliott reviewed the film, noting that it was "shot quite beautifully".

This Thursday, February 12th, stay in Italy but take a trip back in time to Post-WWII reconstruction for Roberto Rossellini's Paisan. A cornerstone of Italian Neo-Realism (which also included The Bicycle Thief, Umberto D. & Ossessione), this rare theatrical presentation is perfect for those kicking off a well-worn Valentine's weekend.

Next Tuesday, February 17th, join director Darius Marder for his documentary Loot. Treasure-hunter/used-car salesman Lance Larson and two fading WWII veterans confront demons old and new on a journey for treasure buried an ocean away. LAist Film Editor Josh Tate gave a glowing review during last year's LA Film Festival, calling it "equal parts stunned amusement and genuine joy and pain".

Next Thursday, February 24th, the Winter season closes with 24 City. Nominated for the Palme d'Or at Cannes, the Chinese film melds fiction, documentary and generations over an apartment complex in pre-earthquake Chengdu.

Each screening is free, open to both the UCLA Community and the greater public. You don't have to be a student to get in. Just get in line. More details available at the Melnitz Movies website and Facebook page.

Compiled by the amazing and diligent Edward Yerke-Robins