MILWAUKEE (November 20, 2024) – The Union Cinema at UW-Milwaukee has unveiled an exciting array of film screenings set for December, showcasing the talents of student filmmakers and highlighting environmental issues. Among the marquee events is the much-anticipated Senior Screenings, a biannual celebration that showcases the thesis films crafted by graduating seniors from UWM’s esteemed Film, Video, Animation and New Genres program. This month signifies a poignant farewell as it marks the last Share the Earth Environmental Film Series selection curated by the retiring Sr. Manager for Arts Programming Linda Corbin-Pardee, who has dedicated two decades to the Union Cinema and has brought an impressive 132 Environmental Film Series programs to life. Additionally, the venue will host significant events like The Association of Moving Image Archivists’ Restoration Screening Night and Archival Screening Night, with the former promising a surprise restoration film that will be revealed only during the event. The Union Cinema is conveniently located at 2200 E Kenwood Blvd, Milwaukee, WI 53211, nestled on the 2nd floor of the Student Union.
The complete schedule can be found here.
Senior Screenings
Join us for two memorable days dedicated to celebrating the outstanding achievements of the class of 2024 and their remarkable films. Senior students dedicate countless hours to writing, producing, editing, and perfecting shorts of their own design, and we ensure that their hard work is presented in the best possible light on the big screen at the Union Cinema. Dress for the occasion, arrive early, walk the glamorous gold carpet, capture pictures, and savor delicious snacks and beverages. During the receptions, enjoy a special film installation by graduating senior Pader Xiong featured in room 260. Senior Screenings will be presented in four time slots, occurring on Friday, Dec. 13 at 5 p.m. & 7 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 14 at 5 p.m. & 7 p.m. Admission is free for all attendees.
The Association of Moving Image Archivists Restoration Screening Night
The Association of Moving Image Archivists (AMIA) is a dedicated nonprofit organization focused on the preservation and promotion of moving image media’s rich history. The 2024 AMIA conference will convene in Milwaukee from Dec. 4-6 and will feature two exclusive screenings at the UWM Union Cinema.
AMIA’s Restoration Screening Night will present a recently restored classic from the AMIA community. Mark your calendars for Wednesday, Dec. 4 at 7 p.m., where entrance will be free for everyone. Attendees can expect a beloved high-energy film from the 1980s—come ready to belt out some tunes! Note that due to the nature of the event, seating will be limited. AMIA’s Archival Screening Night will spotlight recent acquisitions, discoveries, and preservation endeavors by archivists. This program aspires to capture the impressive variety of formats, works, and collections safeguarded by the AMIA community. It will occur on Friday, Dec. 6 at 7:30 p.m. and is also free for all. Again, seating will be limited.
Food, Inc. 2
The much-anticipated sequel, Food, Inc. 2, follows the impact of innovative farmers, progressive food producers, dedicated workers’ rights advocates, and influential legislators like Senator Cory Booker and Senator Jon Tester as they confront major food corporations to instigate meaningful change and foster a healthier, more sustainable food system. The Union Cinema has committed nearly two decades to showcasing films that address environmental themes through the Share the Earth Environmental Film Series. This engaging monthly series presents both documentaries and narrative films showcasing environmental issues and the human behaviors impacting them. The program on Wednesday, Dec. 11 at 6 p.m. will be free for all attendees.
This month’s Environmental Film Series screening is particularly special as it represents the last selection programmed by Sr. Manager for Arts Programming Linda Corbin-Pardee, who is set to retire in January. Over her two-decade tenure at UW-Milwaukee, Linda has curated 132 Environmental Film Series programs and has been pivotal in shaping the Union Cinema into a community hub where filmmakers, students, faculty, and film enthusiasts gather to share their passion for cinema. To honor Linda’s final contribution to the Share the Earth Environmental Film Series, complimentary cupcakes will be served while supplies last, and a designated backdrop will be set up for photo opportunities during the event.
From the Archives: Carriage Trade
A special edition of From the Archives, curated by the series founder and decorated Faculty Emeritus Carl Bogner, will feature an exceptional 16mm print of Warren Sonbert’s Carriage Trade. From the Archives is an ongoing series developed by the Union Cinema in collaboration with Carl Bogner and curated by MFA candidates within the UWM Film Department. Each program allows the curator to select films from the Film Department’s archive based on a chosen theme. Carl Bogner, a longtime lecturer at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and director of the MKE LGBT Film/Video Festival, has mentored numerous student filmmakers throughout his tenure. This particular program will occur on Tuesday, Dec. 3 at 7 p.m. and remains free for all attendees.
For most films, admission is free, but all other films carry a nominal fee of $5, while UWM students and members enjoy complimentary access. Membership to the Union Cinema is available for purchase, providing unlimited access to every film screening for the semester. An annual membership costs $50 for general community members, while a family membership, allowing access for one additional person, is priced at $75. Special discounts are available for alumni, staff, veterans, and seniors, with annual memberships set at $40 for individuals and $60 for families.
For more information, please visit: uwm.edu/union/cinema/, email us at [email protected], or call us at 414-229-4070.
About the Union Cinema
Since its inception in 1972, the Union Cinema has served UWM and the surrounding community by presenting a rich and diverse assortment of entertaining and thought-provoking films and video programming. Throughout the academic year, the Union Cinema showcases first-run foreign, domestic, documentary, and experimental films, alongside cinematic classics from around the world. The Cinema aims to cultivate a deeper appreciation for the universal language of film, establishing itself as an essential and distinctive venue for film and video enthusiasts.
NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.
Mentioned in This Press Release
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What inspired Linda Corbin-Pardee to start the Share the Earth Environmental Film Series at Union Cinema?
**Interview with Linda Corbin-Pardee, Sr. Manager for Arts Programming at Union Cinema**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Linda. You have been a significant part of the Union Cinema’s journey for the past two decades. As you prepare for your retirement, how do you reflect on your time here, particularly in relation to the Share the Earth Environmental Film Series?
**Linda Corbin-Pardee:** Thank you for having me! It’s been an incredible journey. The Share the Earth Environmental Film Series has been a labor of love for me. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to curate a diverse range of documentaries and narrative films that tackle pressing environmental issues. Seeing audiences engage with these films and discuss important topics has been very rewarding.
**Interviewer:** You’ve curated an impressive 132 programs. Can you share a memorable moment or film that stood out to you during your tenure?
**Linda Corbin-Pardee:** One moment that stands out was when we screened a documentary that sparked a lively discussion about climate change and local activism. It brought together filmmakers, students, and community members, creating a space for dialog and inspiration. It reinforced the idea that cinema can be a catalyst for change.
**Interviewer:** This month’s screening of *Food, Inc. 2* seems particularly fitting as your final selection. What excites you about this film and the themes it tackles?
**Linda Corbin-Pardee:** *Food, Inc. 2* continues the important conversation about our food systems and sustainability. With influential figures like Senators Cory Booker and Jon Tester involved, it highlights the intersection of politics, innovation, and grassroots movements. I believe it will inspire viewers to think critically about their food choices and advocate for a healthier planet.
**Interviewer:** How do you feel the cinema has evolved during your time at UW-Milwaukee?
**Linda Corbin-Pardee:** The Union Cinema has transformed into a vibrant community hub for filmmakers, students, and cinephiles. We’ve incorporated more diverse programming, including student showcases and collaborations with local organizations. It’s heartening to see more people coming together to appreciate and discuss films.
**Interviewer:** With your retirement approaching, are there any plans for your future, or will you take a break after such a long career?
**Linda Corbin-Pardee:** I plan to take some time to relax and reflect. I might pursue some personal projects in the arts or perhaps volunteer in environmental advocacy. But I will certainly miss the community I’ve built here at the Union Cinema.
**Interviewer:** We’re excited to celebrate your legacy at the upcoming screening and the special events planned. Any last thoughts you’d like to share with attendees?
**Linda Corbin-Pardee:** I just want to thank everyone who has supported the Share the Earth series and the Union Cinema over the years. Your passion for film and the environment has made this experience truly meaningful for me. I hope to see everyone at the screening on December 11, where we’ll celebrate not just the films but also the incredible community we’ve created around them.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your time, Linda, and for your invaluable contributions to the film community. We wish you all the best in your retirement!
**Linda Corbin-Pardee:** Thank you! It’s been a pleasure.
