“Wrath of the Titans,” sequel to 2010’s “Clash of the Titans” is rated PG-13 and runs 100 minutes. Set ten years after “Clash,” the new film sees demigod Perseus (Sam Worthington) on a journey to rescue his father Zeus (Liam Neeson) from his uncle Hades (Ralph Fiennes).

THREE DAYS ONLY

We’re stacked with two thrillers this weekend!

“Safe House,” rated R, runs in 9 p.m.late shows on Friday, May 4 and Saturday, May 5, as well as a Sunday matinee at 2 p.m.on May 6.

FYI – due to national law, we are no longer able to accept under17 parent-signed cards for R-rated movies. Parents MUST ATTEND if they want their underage child to see this movie.

“Safe House” stars Denzel Washington as rogue CIAoperative Tobin Frost, and Ryan Reynolds as the untested, young agent Matt Weston.

SCHEDULE CHANGE! THE LUCKY ONE

While “Titanic” lovers will be disappointed, Frank the Booker informed me that he was able to convince Warner Brothers to give us “The Lucky One” next week. Therefore, we will NOT be showing “Titanic 3D.” Nicholas Sparks’ “The Lucky One” starring Zach Efron and Taylor Schilling will open Friday, May 11.

I must confess to seeing this movie on national opening night! Gerald and I caved to the pleading and gnashing of teeth when we realized we had never exposed Lily and Grace to the “thrills” of a megaplex. They had both read the futuristic series by Suzanne Collins and were DYING to see the movie. And all their friends were getting to go. But, of course, they’ll all watch it again at the Palace.

Seeing “The Hunger Games” in Waterloo was also Gracie’s first experience of “the book was better than the movie.” I enjoyed the film and Grace and Lily really loved it. Gerald, who had not read the book, thought it was great. But, I recommend both. Read the book and catch the movie at the Palace.

According to Collins, “The Hunger Games” was inspired by the Middle East conflict and reality TV shows like “Survivor.” I’m not a fan of science fiction, but this story is compelling! You know it could happen, or worse has happened on several levels and will continue to happen.

The film can’t tell you Katniss’ every thought, which is so much of the book. While it follows the book as much as any I’ve seen, I felt much of the social commentary that is intrinsic to the story was missing.

That said, the movie is highly entertaining and very well cast. Haymitch was my favorite character in the books, and I loved Woody Harrelson in that role. Lenny Kravitz and Elizabeth Banks as Cinna and Effie were inspired; also Stanley Tucci as the game show host.

One more thing – I’m a Gale fan. You young girls can have your Peeta, but Katniss belongs with Gale. And, Gale (Liam Hemsworth) did not get enough play in the movie.

“The Hunger Games” is long, well over two hours, and rated PG-13 for intense violence and disturbing images. This movie is not for young children. Gracie is eleven. I would not have taken her to this movie last year.

MAY

Our May schedule is finally here. Special thanks to Frank the Booker who worked extra hours for me this month. Unfortunately to no avail. We tried to get “Bully” for the high school, and “Hubble 3D” for the middle school, but “Bully” is a very limited release (only five copies), and “Hubble” is only being released to IMAX venues.

We originally had “The Lucky One” on the schedule, but Warner Brothers said no. Not sure why, but Frank is looking into it. So……first up is “Wrath of the Titans 3D” stacked with “Safe House,” “Titanic 3D,” “The Three Stooges,” and “Marvel’s The Avengers.”

We start with Denzel and end with the lovely Mr. Downey, Jr. – it’s going to be a great month!

“Capone’s Whiskey” plays the Palace in a ONE NIGHT ONLY SPECIAL SHOWING on Friday, April 20 at 7 p.m. The story of the making of Iowa’s own bootleg whiskey, Templeton Rye, was filmed by Kristian Day, who will take the stage following the screening to answer questions. Accompanying Day will be members of the Templeton Rye family. (Yes, the whiskey is now legally distilled.)

In this age of movie studio monopolies and dictatorships, and high priced multiplexes and megaplexes, the Palace Theatre is proud to support independent filmmakers who in turn support our semi-autonomous mission to show affordable stage and big screen family entertainment. To that end, please join us Friday night!

Don’t forget to take your ticket stub to the Ron Da Voo for $1 off Templeton Rye, following the show! Rick’s been stockpiling!

Kristian Day’s documentary film chronicles the history of the infamous whiskey cookers of Carroll County, Iowa from their outlaw days of Prohibition to when the liquor became legal in 2006. During the Prohibition Era, west central Iowa farmers cooked whiskey in their barns and machine sheds to supplement their income in the harsh times. The finished product was of such a high quality that it quickly made its way to speakeasies in Chicago, Kansas City, and Omaha through Italian gangster Al Capone. For almost 80 years the product was considered illegal until it was introduced in 2006 as a legal brand of top shelf liquor.

“This film uncovers a part of Iowa’s history that has been kept in the dark for almost a hundred years,” says Day. “I wanted to tell a story of survival and community spirit without taking away the mystique that it has carried with it for so long.”

Day, 26, a native of Rock Island, Ill., went to high school in Cedar Rapids and attended the University of Colorado at Denver in the music industry studies program. In 2008, Day began directing and producing his own movies. His short films have played all over the world including Austria, Greece and Italy. His films have also been screened at various festivals in cities across the United States including Dallas, Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago.

MIRROR MIRROR

We’ll pick up our regular schedule on Saturday, April 21 through Thursday, April 26 at 7 p.m., and Saturday and Monday, April 21 and 23rd at 2 p.m. for “Mirror Mirror.” Julia Roberts stars as the evil queen in this family fairytale adventure about the story of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.

Rated PG and running 106 minutes, families of all ages will enjoy this delightfully visual retelling of the famous Brothers Grimm tale.

AN ASIDE

Just a few doors down, La Reyna, Vinton’s new Mexican restaurant, is opening tonight! I’ve heard nothing but great comments from folks about this Iowa City transfer, including the two guys who recently installed our Pepsi machines. They raved about the food and service. I met Carmen, one of the owners, on the street yesterday. She was delightful, and so happy to be moving to Vinton! Personally, I see a weekly margaritachipsandsalsa night in my future!

Our little 200 block of downtown Vinton is filling fast! Get ice cream at Peppy’s, drop of your dry cleaning with George at Fourth Street Cleaners, and check out Friends of the Shelter, Cheesehead Cheese Haus, Hope Chest antiques and old favorites Nature’s Corner and Pizza Ranch across the street! Hopefully you’ve already signed your taxes!

Hope to run into you on our street!

Sequel to “Journey to the Center of the Earth” (also starring Hutcherson), “Journey 2” opens Friday, April 13 and will play the Palace through Thursday, April 19 at 7 p.m., and Monday, April 16 at 2 p.m.

“Journey 2” is rated PG, runs 94 minutes, and will be shown in 3D. This action-adventure is suitable for the whole family!

“The Lorax 3D” is rated PG,

and will cost you $4, not the usual 3.

It’s about a community with not one real tree,

so should hold vast appeal for Vintonians like me.

Come for 95 minutes each evening at seven –

you’ll be late if you wait and show up at eleven!

There are matinees at two for those patrons who

like movies on Saturdays and on Mondays, too.

Get your tickets online or at the Box Office early!

(Or risk dealing with children who are cranky and surly.)

CAPONE’S WHISKEY

The Palace is pleased to partner with Rick Zimpfer at the Ron Da Voo when we show “Capone’s Whiskey: The Story of Templeton Rye” on Friday, April 20 at 7 p.m. Tickets for this special showing are $7 and may be purchased in advance at www.vintonpalace.org or at the theatre.

Following the screening, film creator, Kristian Day, will take the stage for a question and answer session. Patrons are then are encouraged to bring ticket stubs and join us at the Ron Da Voo to receive $1 off Templeton Rye.

Kristian Day’s documentary film chronicles the history of the infamous whiskey cookers of Carroll County, Iowa from their outlaw days of Prohibition to when the liquor became legal in 2006. During the Prohibition Era, west central Iowa farmers cooked whiskey in their barns and machine sheds to supplement their income in the harsh times. The finished product was of such a high quality that it quickly made its way to speakeasies in Chicago, Kansas City, and Omaha through Italian gangster Al Capone. For almost 80 years the product was considered illegal until it was introduced in 2006 as a legal brand of top shelf liquor.

“This film uncovers a part of Iowa’s history that has been kept in the dark for almost a hundred years,” says Day. “I wanted to tell a story of survival and community spirit without taking away the mystique that it has carried with it for so long.”

Day, 26, a native of Rock Island, Ill., went to high school in Cedar Rapids and attended the University of Colorado at Denver in the music industry studies program. In 2008, Day began directing and producing his own movies. His short films have played all over the world including Austria, Greece and Italy. His films have also been screened at various festivals in cities across the United States including Dallas, Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago.

This movie is the third movie in Day’s MADE IN IOWA documentary series, which has previously includedBrent Houzenga: Hybrid Pioneer(available on DVD) andTempleton Rye: Iowa’s Good Stuff(30 minute short), which aired along side the Ken Burns’ series Prohibition on Iowa Public Television this past October and is currently available on Amazon’s Video On Demand.The ongoing series tells the stories of the innovative people, places and ideas that have influenced Iowa’s culture.

Modern American Cinema, LLC is an independent film production & distribution company based in Des Moines, Iowa. Founded in 2010, the company specializes in creating full-feature narratives and educational documentaries for international distribution.

.)

Isn’t that hilarious! What? You don’t get the joke? Above is my comment regarding this year’s delightful Oscar winner, and quiet attempt at levity.

“The Artist” plays the Palace Friday, March 23 through Thursday, March 29 at 7 p.m., and Monday, March 26 at 2 p.m. Yes, it’s a silent film, and yes, you should give it a chance! Broaden your horizons for just $3!

“The Artist” stars Jean Dujardin and Berenice Bejo, and features John Goodman and Ann Miller. It runs 100 minutes and is rated PG-13 for a disturbing image and a crude gesture.

Dujardin is George Valentin, a silent film star. The industry turns on him when talkies come along, and he’s left alone in his rundown apartment with only his faithful dog, Uggie, for company. 

Peppy Miller (Berenice Bejo) befriends Valentin. She was a hopeful dancer and has now found great fame. I’ve seen “The Artist” three times, and each time it was applauded, perhaps because the audience was surprised at itself for liking it so much. It’s good for holiday time, speaking to all ages in a universal language. Silent films can weave a unique enchantment. ~Roger Ebert

My daughter, Erin, loved it and was very glad she had the chance to see “The Artist.” Erin is a fan of old movies and thought this film was reminiscent of “Singing in the Rain.” She did mention that while charmed by “The Artist,” she probably wouldn’t want a steady diet of silent films.

APRIL

I’m still waiting to hear reviews from my older children who caught the midnight showing of “The Hunger Games” last night. Those patient, financially prudent patrons may catch “The Hunger Games” at the Palace beginning April 27. Other April offerings include “The Secret World of Arrietty,” “The Lorax,” “Journey 2,” and “Mirror Mirror.” Schedules are available online at www.vintonpalace.org or at the theatre.

Michelle Williams received high praise and was nominated for a Best Actress Oscar for her role as Marilyn in this movie. “My Week With Marilyn” is based on the diary of Colin Clark (Eddie Redmayne), who detailed one week spent in the company of Marilyn while on hiatus when filming “The Prince and the Showgirl.”

This movie also features Kenneth Branagh as Laurence Olivier, Julia Ormond as Vivien Leigh, and Dame Judi Dench as Dame Sybil Thorndike.

“My Week With Marilyn” runs 101 minutes and is rated R.

APRIL

The April schedule has arrived! Kids and families take note! First up is “Dr. Suess’ The Lorax,” followed by “Journey 2: the Mysterious Island,” “Mirror Mirror,” and “The Hunger Games.” The detailed schedule should be available online and at the theatre by week’s end.

PRAISE FOR OSCAR MONTH

Loved “Tinker Tailor,” when Jen and I watched it at the Palace Monday night! Loved it! I think some of the other patrons were shocked and thoroughly confused, but I thought the acting, direction and script were marvelous. If you need someone to buy the poster off you, let me know!!!

Thanks for the great variety of films. Looking forward to “Marilyn” and “The Artist!” ~JB

Manager’s note: patrons have definitely been baffled by “Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy.” Following the Monday matinee every patron lingered in the lobby laughing and talking about how they just didn’t get it! Two nights remain – are you up for the challenge?

Next up on the big screen for Oscar Month is “Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy,” rated R for violence, sex, nudity and language. This movie is based on John Le Carre’s 1974 novel, a salute to modern spy fiction. Le Carre knew his subject. In the real world, he was British spy, David Cornwall.

This film version, nominated by the Academy for Best Actor, Best Film Adaptation, and Best Sound, features Gary Oldman, Colin Firth and John Hurt.

“Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy” runs Sunday through Thursday, March 11 through 15 at 7 p.m., and Monday, March 12 at 2 p.m.

Our Friday through Thursday regular movie schedule returns on March 16 with “My Week With Marilyn.”

See you at the Oscars!

Gerald and I had great luck to be stranded in Waterloo during a brief snowstorm in January and waited out the weather with George on the big screen. I encourage you to catch “The Descendants” which plays the Palace Sunday through Thursday only, March 4 through 8 at 7 p.m., and Monday, March 5 at 2 p.m.

The story centers on Matt King (Clooney), descended of Hawaiian royalty and bequeathed several beautiful acres of untouched tropical paradise, which he generously shares with his large, flamboyant family. Uncle Hugh is portrayed by Beau Bridges. I am a huge fan of the Bridges brothers – and Beau is charmingly Beau in this role.

The family wants to sell the land to developers. While workaholic King is pondering this decision, personal tragedy strikes. His wife Elizabeth is struck down in a boating accident and lingers in a coma, leaving King solely responsible for their two young daughters and reeling from the recent revelation of his wife’s infidelity.

“The Descendants” is rated R for language. Indeed, some of you will be offended by the sassy, potty mouth on King’s older daughter, Alexandra, played by Shailene Woodley. I, however, loved her character, back-talking f-words and all, and thought she deserved Oscar recognition for her portrayal. Her boyfriend, Sid (Nick Krause), is also one to watch.

This movie is not fast-paced, but tells a beautiful, gripping, real-life story, and showcases Hawaii like I’ve never seen it before. I hope you’ll laugh and cry and love it as much as I did.

QUESTION

I recently discovered an app, RunPee, free at iTunes.com, that tells you the best time to take a powder and what you would miss during the movie. We’ve actually had a few patrons request intermissions for longer movies. Apparently movie houses used to do that back in the day. With our new digital system the Palace now has the capability to pause the film and plan an intermission for longer movies. Would you be in favor of this added perk?

MEA CULPA X 3!

You read me, you really read me! Which was proven last week by the glut of email I received letting me know that #1 – I called last weekend March 24-26 instead of February, #2 – I spelled the website incorrectly – it’s vintonpalace.org, NOT vintonplace.org, and finally, #3 – I attributed Sandra Bullock’s role in “Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close” to Julia Roberts.

Unfortunately, or perhaps fortunately, neither Sandra nor Julia (or their people) read my column, as I didn’t hear from those camps. Anyway, sorry, sorry, sorry for the confusion. I wish I could say it will never happen again.

OSCAR MONTH AT THE PALACE

Be sure to check online at www.vintonpalace.org or pick up a March schedule in the lobby of the theatre. ACT I will present “Dancers” the first two weekends of the month, www.act1.org, so our movie schedule is a bit erratic.

However, so many films worth seeing! “The Descendents” is up first, followed by “Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy,” “My Week With Marilyn,”“The Artist,” and finally, for the kids, “The Secret World of Arrietty.”

See you at the Oscars!

It’s a sci-fi, action-adventure, fantasy Western, folks! Yee haw, take me to your leader.

1875. New Mexico Territory. A stranger (Craig) with no memory of his past stumbles into the desolate desert town of Absolution. He soon discovers that the people of Absolution don’t welcome strangers, and nobody makes a move unless ordered to do so by the iron-fisted Colonel Dolarhyde (Ford).

Absolution, a town that lives in fear, is about to experience fear it can scarcely comprehend. The stranger they rejected is their only hope for salvation. As this gunslinger slowly starts to remember who he is and where he’s been, he realizes he holds a secret that could give the town a fighting chance against the alien force.

Rated PG-13 for intense sequences of Western and sci-fi action and violence, some partial nudity and a brief crude reference, and running two minutes shy of two hours, this movie is fun for all but our younger viewers.

SEPTEMBER

Kiddos, do not despair! The Palace will cheer in the Labor Day weekend with “Smurfs in 3D!” September continues with “Captain America,” “The Help,” “Rise of the Planet of the Apes,” and we’ll end the month for the kids again with “The Lion King in 3D.”

Also, music legend Gary Morris returns on Sunday, September 4 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $25 and available online or at the box office.

As always, schedules will be available soon, online at www.vintonpalace.org, and at the theatre.