“A Pigeon Sat on a Branch Reflecting on Existence” and “A Lego Brickumentary” open at the Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center on Aug. 21.
“A Pigeon Sat on a Branch Reflecting on Existence” takes up the theme of “being a human being” with meticulously crafted, dreamlike comedy.
In the film, Sam and Jonathan, a pair of hapless novelty salesmen, take the audience on a kaleidoscopic tour of the human condition in reality and fantasy, unfolding in absurdist episodes: a sing-along at a ’40s beer hall, a randy flamenco teacher, a thirsty King Charles XII of Sweden en route to battle and a diabolical metaphor for the horrors inflicted by European colonialism. It is a journey that unveils the beauty of single moments, the pettiness of others, life’s grandeur and the humor and tragedy hidden within everyone.
“A Lego Brickumentary” playfully delves into the impact of the Lego brick, its massive global fan base and its many innovative uses around the world.
The documentary discusses how the Lego group has produced more than 400 billion bricks. But more and more, Lego bricks aren’t just for kids, and some take them very seriously. Adult fans of Lego around the globe are unashamedly declaring their love of the brick, brick artists are creating stunning and surprising creations and Lego master builders are building human scale and larger structures.
Legobricks are being used educationally, therapeutically and have provided a universal system for human creativity.
In conjunction with the showing of the film, the Lincoln and Omaha Lego Users Group will be exhibiting original models, which members of the group have created, in the Ross lobby during the afternoons of Aug. 22 and 23.
The group is a small community of Lego enthusiasts who enjoy interacting locally with other fans in Nebraska. Models on display include a replica of the state capitol building and the Sheldon Museum of Art.
For more information about films at the Ross, including show times, go to https://theross.org or call 402-472-5353.
