In a world where houses dont burn, there isnt much for a fireman to do, except harass intellectuals and burn books at least, thats the job description for firefighters in François Truffauts film Fahrenheit 451. The story, based on the novel by Ray Bradbury, takes place in a futuristic world where literature is believed to breed anti-socialism and unstable emotions in citizens. Anyone found possessing a book is subject to punishment at the hands of the firemen, who seem more like East German Stasi officer rejects than civic servants. Guy Montag (played by Oskar Werner) is a loyal fireman until he encounters Clarisse (Julie Christie), who hoards books; she tells him about a community on the citys outskirts where book lovers live in peace. Intrigued by the idea, Montag begins to question his role in a society where books and the knowledge they contain are forbidden. 7 p.m. College of the Mainland, 1501 Amburn Road. For information, call 409-938-8600 or visit www.com.edu. Free.
Fri., April 1, 2011