The films “Neon Bull” and “Hockney” open June 3 at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center. Also continuing to show at the Ross is “A Bigger Splash.”
“Neon Bull” tells the story of the tough, macho world of the vaquejada, a traditional exhibition sport in which cowboys try to pull bulls to the ground by their tails. The film explores the vaquejada through the eyes of Iremar, a rugged cowboy who works the events. Home for Iremar is the truck used to transport the animals from show to show, which he shares with his makeshift family. While he’s not afraid to get his hands dirty, Iremar’s real dream is to become a fashion designer and create outfits for dancers.
In “Hockney,”, David Hockney — an English painter, printmaker, stage designer and photographer — is granted access to his personal archive of photographs and film, resulting in an unparalleled visual diary of his life. The film chronicles Hockney’s vast career, from his early life in working-class Bradford, England, where his love for pictures was developed through his admiration for cinema, to his relocation to Hollywood where his life long struggle to escape labels was fully realized. The documentary traces the artist’s journey to live the American or Californian dream, yet paradoxically reveals that he never broke ties with the childhood that formed him.
Both films are not rated, but viewer discretion is advised.
In “A Bigger Splash,” rock legend Marianne Lane is recuperating on the volcanic island of Pantelleria with her partner Paul. When Lane’s record producer and old flame Harry unexpectedly arrives with his daughter, he interrupts their holiday, bringing with him a blast of nostalgia from which there can be no rescue.
For more information on films at the Ross, including show times and ticket prices, click here or call 402-472-5353.
