July 15, 2025

New Ross film follows 8-year-old living through war

Lexi Venter stars in DON’T LET’S GO TO THE DOGS TONIGHT

In 1980, Zimbabwe was on the cusp of independence, and "Don’t Let’s Go to the Dogs Tonight," the new film opening at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln's Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center, takes viewers into the experience from an 8-year-old's perspective.

Continuing is the film, "Sunlight."

Trailer "Don't Let's Go to the Dogs Tonight"

Based on Alexandra Fuller’s memoir of the same name, "Don’t Let’s Go to the Dogs Tonight" captures the childhood of 8-year-old Bobo on her family farm in Zimbabwe (formerly Rhodesia) at the end of the Zimbabwean War for independence in 1980. Growing up in the midst of this long-running war, Bobo internalizes both sides of the struggle. Conflicted by her love for people on opposing sides, she tries to make sense of her life in a magical way. Through her 8-year-old gaze we witness Rhodesia’s final days, the family’s unbreakable bond with Africa, and the deep scars that war leaves on survivors.

"Don’t Let’s Go to the Dogs Tonight" is rated R and is showing through July 24.

From comedian and ventriloquist Nina Conti, "Sunlight" is a darkly funny love story between a man and a woman. In New Mexico, Roy, a dysfunctional radio host, is pulled from the noose by Monkey-clad Jane, who is escaping a controlling relationship with her dead mum’s toyboy husband. Together they dig up the grave of Roy’s terrible dad to retrieve the watch they hope will fund a new life built on a shaky dream. This is beauty and the beast in reverse. Love grows between Roy and Jane, who finds a ballsy new voice from within the fur but feels she can’t come out until she is truly loved.

"Sunlight" is not rated and is showing through July 24.

Ending their runs at the Ross July 17 are "The Life of Chuck" and "Pavements."

For more information on films, including showtimes and ticket availability, visit the Ross' website.