Planning This Week’s Date Night? Dublin’s Cinemas Have Plenty On Offer

While blockbuster season might be winding down, there’s still plenty of reasons to head to the cinema this week, with the release of two very worthwhile indies and a smattering of Lebowski for good measure.

The Diary of a Teenage Girl.

From Friday, Aug 7th.

Select theatres.

The feature debut of writer/director Marielle Heller, The Diary of a Teenage Girl is a fresh take on the coming of age movie, a ‘70s set comedy/drama that opens with 15 year old Minnie (Bel Powley), dictaphone in hand, announcing, ‘I had sex today’. The sex in question just happened to be with her awful mother’s (Kristen Wiig) 35 year old boyfriend (Alexander Skargsard). What follows is a frank, funny exploration of a young girl’s sexual awakening. So frank in fact, it’s controversially been slapped with an 18 rating here and in the UK. See for yourself when it opens in select cinemas this weekend.

Happenings: The Big Lebowski

Thursday, Aug 6th, Doors 7.30pm.

Merrion Square.

Presuming the weather holds up (as always), the Coens’ classic The Big Lebowski screens in Merrion Square this evening. Its particular blend of scattershot plot and absurdist dialogue puzzled many upon its release back in 1998, but Lebowski’s cult following has grown massively since. And rightfully so. A film that only improves upon repeat viewings, there’s probably no better setting to revisit The Dude, Walter and co. than in a park surrounded by fans of this classic comedy. Nihilists best stay at home, as this looks to be an evening of celebration. But that’s just my opinion, man..

The Gift

From Friday, Aug 7th.

General Release.

Warrior star Joel Edgerton makes his directorial debut with the creepy thriller The Gift. The writer/director stars as lonely misfit Gordo, a distant high school acquaintance of Jason Bateman’s Simon. Recently moved into a lavish new home with his wife Robyn (Rebecca Hall), Simon is increasingly troubled by Gordo’s strange visits, often dropping over expensive gifts. When Simon attempts to cut off ties with Gordo, he threatens to bring to light a dark secret that bonds the two men. With ecstatic reviews and an intriguing premise, The Gift promises to be a throwback to the high concept thrillers of the ‘80’s.