The Department of Communications, Popular Culture and Film at Brock University has a long-standing tradition that seems to be a secret to many Niagarans –  the Brock University Film Society, or BUFS. Every Wednesday at 7:00pm at the Empire Theatres, guests are welcome to enjoy films that otherwise wouldn’t make it to a Niagara screen… all in the name of loving great cinema.

As a city that exists just south of a large metropolis, we are often overlooked when it comes to the big screen gold that is rewarded for excellence. We’re left thinking: “I can’t wait until that plays on The Movie Network.” What a shame! A cinematic masterpiece deserves the big screen, the surround sound that makes even a whisper more dramatic and the surroundings of fellow film lovers reacting to each element of a film with us. The answer is BUFS.

The 2013 season will run until April 3 (with no screening on March 13) at the Empire Theatres located at the Pen Centre. Tickets are available at the BUFS table in the theatre lobby from 6:00pm – 6:55pm.  Come early because these shows are popular and have a devoted following of cinefiles! Tickets are $10 with tax included and you must pay with cash or cheque.

We are bringing you into the loop a bit late this year, but be advised that Season Passes are available, and if you’re interested in catching almost all of what is left this season you can score some savings with the following options:

Eight-film Pass: $70
Five-film Pass: $45
Five-film Pass for Students and Seniors: $40

The announcement of more films should shortly arrive, but for your convenience we have listed the films that are already confirmed for the Winter Season: 

February 13 – Quartet
(Dustin Hoffman, UK, rated PG, 98 min.)

In a home for retired opera singers, the lives (and performance schedules) of three friends are shaken up by the return of a diva. Hoffman’s directorial debut stars Maggie Smith, Billy Connolly, and Michael Gambon. View trailer.

Feb. 20 – The Impossible
(Juan Antonio Bayona, Spain, rated PG, 114 min.)

In a Thai vacation paradise in 2004, a family is torn apart by one of the worst natural disasters in history and must then try to find each other again. Starring Ewan McGregor and Oscar nominee Naomi Watts. View trailer.

Feb. 27 – The World Before Her
(Nisha Pahuja, Canada, rated PG, 90 min.)

In India, two young women pursue different paths: one covets the title of Miss India, while another joins a Hindi nationalist group. Winner of the Best Canadian Feature at HotDocs. View trailer.

Mar. 6 – Amour
(Michael Haneke, Austria/France/Germany, rated PG, 127 min.)

The love of two retired music teachers is put to the greatest test when one falls ill. An emotionally devastating study of love and parting. Winner of the Palme D’Or at Cannes, nominee for two Best Picture Oscars. View trailer.

Apr. 3 – THE ANGELS’ SHARE
(Ken Loach, UK/France/Belgium/Italy, not yet rated, 101 min.)

A violent Glaswegian criminal trying to reform his ways just might be redeemed by a stern girlfriend, a caring probation officer, and the wonderful world of fine malt whiskey. View trailer.