Bikes and Buddhism
May 8, 2007 9:09 am documentaryHopeDance Magazine returns in May with progressive-minded documentaries about bikes, Buddhism and biodiversity.
The film series kicks off today with “Manufactured Landscapes,” Canadian filmmaker Jennifer Baichwal’s stunning look at humankind’s impact on the world around it.
The film, which starts at 7 p.m., follows photographer Edward Burtynsky as he documents the effects of industry and manufacturing on landscapes throughout the world. Tickets are $5.
All films will be shown at the San Luis Obispo City-County Library, 995 Palm St. in San Luis Obispo.
Catch the following films this month:
MAY 14
“Words of My Perfect Teacher,” 7 p.m.
Three students on a quest for wisdom seek out one of the world’s most eminent Buddhist teachers. Cameos by Steven Seagal and Bernardo Bertolucci. $10.
MAY 18
Amateur Bike Shorts, 7 p.m.
Love bikes? HopeDance kicks off its BiKE FiLM Festival with an evening of short films by locals. As per festival rules, each film has a strong pro-bike or anti-car message and runs 10 minutes or less. $5.
MAY 19
“Contested Streets” and “Pedal,” 7 p.m.
HopeDance’s celebration of National Bike Month continues with these two reels-on-wheels. “Contested Streets” chronicles the evolution of New York City’s busy, bustling streets, while “Pedal” looks at that city’s bike messengers. $10, $5 for bicyclists and folks on foot.
MAY 21
“Soul Searching: The Journey of Thomas Merton,” 7 p.m.
Filmmaker Morgan Atkinson brings insight to the spiritual journey of the well-known Trappist monk, theologian, author and activist. He’s set to speak after the screening. $10.
MAY 22
“Planet Earth: The Future,” 6:30 p.m.
This companion series to The Discovery Channel’s eye-opening “Planet Earth” highlights the issues surrounding the conservation of Earth’s natural splendor. Donation requested.
MAY 25
“America: From Freedom to Fascism,” 4:30 p.m.
Aaron Russo connects the creation of the Federal Reserve system to the loss of civil liberties in America in this documentary, also screened last month. Donation requested.
– Sarah L.
