UPDATED APRIL 23

This spring, the Ojai Film Society unveils a new Saturday series at the Ojai Valley Museum that ventures into thoughtful and provocative territory. Unlike the family-oriented screenings at Libbey Bowl, the 2024 Spring Series, titled "Staking a Claim," offers a curated selection of films aimed at adult audiences, featuring stories that delve into the complexities of identity and agency in the Americas.

The series will be held in the Ojai Valley Museum's outdoor courtyard, an intimate setting that complements the films' nuanced nature. The series distinguishes itself by presenting works that require contemplation and discussion, an ideal fit for a mature audience seeking depth and substance in cinema.

Nicholas Weissman, Vice President of OFS, says, “We’re thrilled to launch this new Spring screening series at the Ojai Valley Museum. It's just a wonderful location for a curated selection of thought-provoking stories that we hope will inspire conversations not only about the filmmaking craft but also lend a fresh perspective on cultures and communities. The museum is a great backdrop for these screenings, and we look forward to some lovely evenings of storytelling with our Ojai community.”

Tickets are free, but the Ojai Film Society emphasizes the importance of early reservation due to the limited space available. Patrons are reminded to bring their own chairs.

The Spring Series kicks off on April 6 with “Cassandro,” a film that portrays the life of Saúl Armendáriz, an amateur wrestler from El Paso who achieves international fame by challenging the stereotypes of his sport. The lineup continues two weeks later with “Lakota Nation vs. United States,” a documentary that explores the Lakota Indians' struggle for the Black Hills. The series concludes May 4 with “Fire on the Hill,” a story about urban cowboys in South Central Los Angeles, with the added highlight of the filmmakers being in attendance.

As the Ojai Film Society continues to present quality cinema with its Summer series at Libbey Bowl, the Spring Series at the Ojai Valley Museum marks a thoughtful expansion of its programming. With its focus on adult audiences and films that engage with social and cultural themes, the Spring Series offers a unique opportunity for film lovers in the Ojai Valley to explore new narratives and discussions.

Attendees can look forward to a season of enriching cinematic experiences that reflect the diversity and complexity of the human experience. The Ojai Film Society invites the community to reserve their tickets early and join them in this compelling exploration of storytelling through film.

Click the images to reserve tickets or visit ojaifilmsociety.org.