Of Particular Interest

Sasha Stone

Mirror Contributing Writer

“La Grande Illusion” 
on the Big Screen
The Royal, West L.A.
11523 Santa Monica Blvd.
(310) 477-5581

   Do not miss the opportunity to see the reissue of Jean Renoir's “La Grande Illusion” when it comes to the Royal this Friday.
   This reissue has been completely restored from its original camera negative, which had been confiscated by the Germans soon after they occupied France in 1940, and thought lost even by Renoir himself. The restoration work is said to be "the most pictorially and aurally stunning version of the film ever seen in this country." Given that the more commonly-seen version features some of the most fluid and beautiful deep-focus camerawork ever put to film, this reissue ought to be very impressive indeed and promises to dazzle film newcomers and world-weary cineastes alike.
   “La Grande Illusion” chronicles the discovery by two French officers held in a prison camp that the enemy is not each other, but war itself. The film stars Pierre Fresnay and Erich Von Stroheim, with a script by Jean Renoir and Charles Spaak. It has been voted one of the ten greatest films ever made and will run in French with English subtitles.

"The Kids Need New Shoes"
Barry Wayne's Benefit 
Venting Event and Party
Sunday, August 29th
6-10 p.m.
18th Street Art Complex
1639 18th Street, Santa Monica
(310) 394-VENT; 
www.ventingevents.com

   Bring a pair of new shoes for kids and get in free.
   Venting! A self-described "positive way for you to VENT what gets under your skin, pisses you off and turns you on" will be presented at the 18th Street Art Complex to benefit Help Homeless Children.
There will be music, food and drink, not to mention the chance to check out the art at 18th Street. Entertainment will include the "The Agape International Youth Choir" and the unique sounds of"Alternate Faith."
   The best part is that all shoes and net proceeds will be donated to Justiceville/Homeless, USA, a group tending specifically to homeless children. 
   Admission is free with a pair of new children's shoes (ages 1-14, casual/athletic) or a donation of $20 per person.