List

2023 Movie Discussion Titles

By Skokie Staff Advisory Services

Each month we screen a movie and then talk about it. These are the films we discussed in 2023.

  • Ava

    2017

    In this coming-of-age story, a rebellious teenager struggles to become her own person. She challenges the strict rules of her school, her parents' expectations, and the limits of society. A stunning and personal debut feature. Written and directed by Sadaf Foroughi. In Farsi with English subtitles.

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  • Writing with Fire

    2022

    This Oscar-nominated documentary focuses on the only independent newspaper in India run entirely by women journalists. These women, from marginalized communities, courageously reported issues that the mainstream did not, thus speaking truth to power. Directed by Rintu Thomas and Sushmit Ghosh. In Hindi with English subtitles.

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  • The Rose Maker

    2022

    One of France’s most versatile actors, Catherine Frot hits the mark in this comedic tale about a small family-owned rose farm on the verge of bankruptcy that challenges a corporate competitor. Directed by Pierre Pinaud. In French with English subtitles.

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  • Breaking Fast

    2021

    A multilayered, under-the-radar queer rom-com set in West Hollywood during the month of Ramadan. Mo is a practicing Muslim still dealing with heartache after a long-term relationship ended the year before. Then he meets Kal, who offers to break fast with him. Written and directed by Mike Mosallam. In English and Arabic with English subtitles.

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  • Till

    2023

    Filmmaker Chinonye Chukwu tells the story of Mamie Till-Mobley, who became an educator and a prominent activist in the Civil Rights Movement. Danielle Deadwyler in the lead gives a powerful performance.

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  • Peace by Chocolate

    2022

    The Hadhad family, refugees from the Syrian civil war, are offered sponsorship in Antigonish, Nova Scotia. They find a way to pursue their dreams, give back to their new community, and inspire other refugees. Based on a true story. Directed by Jonathan Keijser. In English and Arabic with English subtitles.

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  • Paris Je T'aime

    2020

    Created by 22 filmmakers from around the world and featuring an ensemble of international actors, this anthology film is made up of 18 distinctive shorts, each set in different districts in Paris. In French, English, Spanish, Mandarin, and Arabic with English subtitles.

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  • Carmen

    2022

    Following tradition, Carmen worked as the unpaid caregiver for her older brother, the local priest, since she was 16. When he dies suddenly, she must leave the rectory, but what are her options at 50? Inspired by true events and set in Malta in the 1980s. Written and directed by Valerie Buhagiar. In English and Maltese with English subtitles.

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  • Los Lobos

    2023

    Emerging filmmaker Samuel Kishi created a poignant coming-of-age story focusing on a single mother and her two sons who immigrate to Albuquerque from Mexico. While their mother works long hours to make ends meet, the boys spend their days inside a tiny apartment, creating imaginary amusements and dreaming of a trip to Disneyland. In Spanish, English, and Chinese with English subtitles.

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  • Falls around Her

    2021

    Veteran actor Tantoo Cardinal shines as a celebrated First Nations musician who leaves the demands of celebrity behind, returning to her home on the reserve to reconnect with the land, community, and culture. She finds that it’s not so easily done, as she deals with unwelcome intrusions. Written and directed by Darlene Naponse. In English and Ojibwa with English subtitles.

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  • Salam

    2019

    Salam, a Lyft driver awaiting life or death news about a family member in Syria, picks up Audrey, a woman also in distress. A short film written and directed by Claire Fowler. In English and Arabic with English subtitles.

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  • Feeling Through

    2021

    Inspired by a real experience, filmmaker Doug Roland wrote and directed this Oscar-nominated short film. It shows an unlikely connection between a teen in need and a DeafBlind man waiting to catch the bus home. Roland partnered with Helen Keller Services to cast the lead actor and make the film.

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  • Being Thunder

    2023

    We meet Sherente Mishitashin Harris, a two-spirit genderqueer teenager from the Narragansett tribe in Rhode Island. The documentary focuses on their activism and efforts for more gender inclusivity in the traditionally female competitive fancy shawl dance. Directed by Stéphanie Lamorré.

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