Headfirst Editor's Pick
"Stunningly intimate biopic of Elle editor Jean-Dominique Bauby, whose dreamy jetset lifestyle was shattered by a stroke that left him completely paralyzed. Based on memoirs painstakingly dictated by blinking his left eye, this is one of the most spirited, life-affirming dramas of the 2000s."
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A event on Friday 11th August. The event starts at 19:30.
The Old Picture House, located in Totterdown, Bristol is like a cinematic time capsule that has been brought back to life. This charming venue, with its vintage decor and antique furniture, exudes a nostalgic atmosphere that takes you back to the golden age of cinema.
"The Diving Bell and the Butterfly" is a 2007 biographical drama film directed by Julian Schnabel. It tells the remarkable true story of Jean-Dominique Bauby, the former editor-in-chief of the French fashion magazine Elle, who suffered a severe stroke that left him with locked-in syndrome.
The film opens with Bauby (played by Mathieu Amalric) waking up in a hospital bed after the stroke. He finds himself completely paralyzed, with only the ability to blink his left eye. Despite his physical limitations, Bauby's mind remains intact and active.
Using a technique called "partner-assisted scanning," Bauby's speech therapist, Henriette (Marie-Josée Croze), helps him communicate by reciting the letters of the alphabet in order of their frequency of use in the French language. By blinking his left eye when she reaches the desired letter, Bauby painstakingly constructs words and sentences.
Bauby's daily existence is depicted through his internal monologue as he reminisces about his past, contemplates his present state, and imagines his future. In an effort to maintain his sanity and cope with his circumstances, he retreats into his imagination and memories.
Bauby also receives visits from his estranged wife, Céline (Emmanuelle Seigner), and their three children, as well as other friends and family members who try to provide support. Despite their efforts, Bauby often feels isolated and frustrated by his inability to communicate and interact with the world around him.
However, with the help of a dedicated team of therapists and medical professionals, Bauby manages to write a memoir by dictating it one letter at a time using the blinking technique. The book, titled "The Diving Bell and the Butterfly," becomes a sensation and receives critical acclaim.
The film beautifully captures Bauby's inner world and his struggle to find meaning and connection despite his physical limitations. It explores themes of resilience, the power of the human spirit, and the triumph of imagination over adversity.
"The Diving Bell and the Butterfly" is a poignant and visually stunning film that offers a profound reflection on the fragility of life and the indomitable nature of the human will.
The Old Picture House, located in Totterdown, Bristol. Step inside, and you'll be greeted by the sight of ornate and well-preserved furnishings that harken back to a bygone era. The creaking wooden floors and plush velvet seats transport you to a time when moviegoing was an elegant affair.
But this place isn't just about watching films. It's a multi-purpose venue that offers much more. Need a drink to accompany your movie experience? No problem! The small bar at The Old Picture House has you covered, serving up refreshing beverages to enhance your cinematic enjoyment (cash only).
The film has English subtitles. Tickets are non-refundable.
Entry requirements:
"The Diving Bell and the Butterfly" is a 2007 biographical drama film directed by Julian Schnabel. It tells the remarkable true story of Jean-Dominique Bauby, the former editor-in-chief of the French fashion magazine Elle, who suffered a severe stroke that left him with locked-in syndrome.
The film opens with Bauby (played by Mathieu Amalric) waking up in a hospital bed after the stroke. He finds himself completely paralyzed, with only the ability to blink his left eye. Despite his physical limitations, Bauby's mind remains intact and active.
Using a technique called "partner-assisted scanning," Bauby's speech therapist, Henriette (Marie-Josée Croze), helps him communicate by reciting the letters of the alphabet in order of their frequency of use in the French language. By blinking his left eye when she reaches the desired letter, Bauby painstakingly constructs words and sentences.
Bauby's daily existence is depicted through his internal monologue as he reminisces about his past, contemplates his present state, and imagines his future. In an effort to maintain his sanity and cope with his circumstances, he retreats into his imagination and memories.
Bauby also receives visits from his estranged wife, Céline (Emmanuelle Seigner), and their three children, as well as other friends and family members who try to provide support. Despite their efforts, Bauby often feels isolated and frustrated by his inability to communicate and interact with the world around him.
However, with the help of a dedicated team of therapists and medical professionals, Bauby manages to write a memoir by dictating it one letter at a time using the blinking technique. The book, titled "The Diving Bell and the Butterfly," becomes a sensation and receives critical acclaim.
The film beautifully captures Bauby's inner world and his struggle to find meaning and connection despite his physical limitations. It explores themes of resilience, the power of the human spirit, and the triumph of imagination over adversity.
"The Diving Bell and the Butterfly" is a poignant and visually stunning film that offers a profound reflection on the fragility of life and the indomitable nature of the human will.
The Old Picture House, located in Totterdown, Bristol. Step inside, and you'll be greeted by the sight of ornate and well-preserved furnishings that harken back to a bygone era. The creaking wooden floors and plush velvet seats transport you to a time when moviegoing was an elegant affair.
But this place isn't just about watching films. It's a multi-purpose venue that offers much more. Need a drink to accompany your movie experience? No problem! The small bar at The Old Picture House has you covered, serving up refreshing beverages to enhance your cinematic enjoyment (cash only).
The film has English subtitles. Tickets are non-refundable.
Entry requirements:
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