Triplex Cinema and Great Barrington Libraries Announce "Banned Books on Film" Series| 11:15AM / Wednesday, April 30, 2025 | |
GREAT BARRINGTON, Mass. — The Triplex Cinema and the Great Barrington Public Libraries have announced a new film series titled "Banned Books on Film."
The series will commence on Saturday, May 4, at 4:00 p.m. with a screening of Francois Truffaut’s 1966 film "Fahrenheit 451", an adaptation of Ray Bradbury’s 1953 dystopian novel. A discussion will follow the screening. Tickets are available for purchase at www.thetriplex.com. The Great Barrington Friends of the Library is sponsoring the series, and copies of Bradbury's novel are available for borrowing at Mason Library.
"Fahrenheit 451" stars Julie Christie, Oskar Werner, and Cyril Cusack. The film depicts a future American society where books are banned and burned by firemen. The narrative follows one such fireman who becomes disillusioned and ultimately dedicates himself to preserving literature. Bradbury described his novel, published during the McCarthy era and influenced by historical instances of book burning and ideological repression, as a commentary on preventing potential futures.
Bradbury’s novel received critical acclaim upon release but was also subject to bans in schools and censorship. The "Banned Books on Film" series intends to feature other film adaptations of frequently banned books, such as "The Grapes of Wrath", "Of Mice and Men", "The Perks of Being a Wallflower", "The Scarlett Letter", "The Fault in our Stars", and "The Outsiders".
Jamie Nicholson, head of adult programming for the Great Barrington Libraries, emphasized the importance of free access to knowledge and the increasing prevalence of book bans. The partnership with the Triplex Cinema aims to foster community discussion about intellectual freedom and the right to read.
Gail Lansky, Triplex Board President, expressed enthusiasm for the series and the collaboration with the Great Barrington Libraries.
The Triplex Cinema is a nonprofit organization presenting a variety of films and programs. The Great Barrington Libraries, consisting of Mason and Ramsdell Libraries, offer resources and programs to the community.
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