Smith Rafael Film Center — Attraction in San Rafael

This review is not about the theater. I give SR cinema the highest praise, hence 5 stars.

I actually want to submit a review about a current movie: Happy End. I give the movie 1 star. In short, it’s a terrible film. I just can’t see any redeeming value in it. I know it’s not supposed to be ‘ Hollywood’. But over all, it is a ware of time. No amount of artsy discourse will remedy the films pervasive flaws. I can’t see any redeeming quality or message, or even novel film art craft. It simply fails at each level and device in movie making. The critics offer some immense stretches of the films merits. I can’t agree on any point. To sum it up, while movie making is not an easy endeavor, and while , equally important, many non standard presentations can be done with beautiful effect, the subject should be left to qualified people. I came away with the notion that I had witnessed total failure in the craft.

review for a current...

Recent screening of Elvis and the conversation after the screening was notable perks of this theater. Excellent sound system to watch Elvis.

Film center dedicated to show a great selection of independent, foreign films & less known documentaries. Home of Mill Valley film festival and the new, DocLands festival, etc. So many great and memorable films that I have seen here in the past 20 years.

The recent screening of “Circles” has provided me the part of Bay Area’s education related issues that I wasn't aware of much. It has given me the in-depth real life perspective on the social issue by the subject of the film and the film maker. The Discussion and Q&A immediately following screening with the director & the subject of the documentary was wonderful opportunity for the audience who may many questions...

The Rafael & CFI (California Film Institute) are a priceless gem in the Bay Area! Throughout the year wonderful independent & top feature films emerge from the experienced evaluations of professional staff with what constitute stimulating, thought-provoking film! Every form of taste & preference can be satisfied with the wonderfully creative leadership of CFI, not only at the marvelous Rafael theatre but other fine theatres in the county from the Sequoia in Mill Valley to the Lark in larkspur, but make the Rafael your first stop in your journey of exploration into the world of exciting film from every corner of the globe. As a former film producer, actor, financier I cherish the experiences...