The Reel Spirit Movie Project Continues in 2021 with
Secondhand Lions
Join the Discussion on January 21
On Thursday, Jan. 21 from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. Eastern, the Center will discuss the next film in its monthly “Reel Spirit Movie Project” (RSMP) series — Secondhand Lions (2003), starring Haley Joel Osment, Michael Cain, and Robert Duvall.
Join us for a discussion of this delightful film, which is about coming of age in Texas with two eccentric uncles. Walter is dropped off by his mother to stay with his uncles, who may (or may not!) be sitting on a pile of money. We will explore the themes of growing up, dying, truth, greed, the lion metaphors which pop up throughout the movie, and much more. Center Associate Jean Woods will lead the online discussion for this film.
In his 2003 review, movie critic Roger Ebert writes: “Secondhand Lions is about the uncles every boy should have, and the summer every boy should spend. No uncles or summers like this ever existed, but isn’t it nice to think that Uncle Garth and Uncle Hub are waiting there on their Texas ranch, shooting at fish and salesmen, and waiting for their 12-year-old nephew to be dumped on them.”
For more information about Secondhand Lions, see IMDB here. You can also view the trailer on YouTube here.
The format of these film discussions has been well-received by participants, who are encouraged to pursue free and open expression. The organizers of this monthly series strive to create an informal and fun atmosphere, one that’s safe for all to share their views without fear of judgment. The facilitator creates a discussion guide that focuses on key themes for the film, and the guide is sent to all registrants. Participants view the selected film ahead of time on their own. A 2-hour facilitated discussion follows on the appointed evening, hosted online via Zoom.
The facilitator for Secondhand Lions is Jean Woods, an Associate at the Center who has been a member in the RSMP since its inception and is a repeat facilitator. Her last film discussion was the well-attended and animated discussion of The Truman Show.
There is no charge for this event, but participants are asked to consider a donation to Center for Spiritual Wisdom, a non-profit organization. To register or receive additional information, please email Cindy Decker at communications@centersw.org. Registrations will be received on a first-come, first-served basis. To make a donation, please go click HERE at the CSW web site. After registration, participants will receive information about the film and a dedicated link to join the discussion.
Stay tuned for other movie discussions planned by the Reel Spirit Movie Project, including Signs, our February selection.
photo credits: imdb.com
