To complement its Distinguished Lecturer Series and other cultural events it hosts during the school year, the University of Maine at Presque Isle has established the Salmagundi Film Series, with a screening and conversation about the film to take place every second Tuesday of the month at 6 p.m. in the Auditorium in Wieden Hall. Film series dates for the Fall 2018 semester are Sept. 11, Oct. 9, Nov. 13, and Dec. 11. All are invited to attend these free screenings, though films may not be appropriate for younger viewers.
“We named the series after the school newspaper that started back in 1909, when UMPI was known as the Aroostook State Normal School, and later evolved into the yearbook that many alumni will remember,” UMPI President Ray Rice said. “Loosely translated, ‘Salmagundi’ means ‘a little bit of everything’ and we felt that was a perfect name for this new series. We’ll be showcasing a wide range of thought-provoking films and providing an opportunity for people to discuss them after each screening.”
During the inaugural film screening on Sept. 11, the series will feature the documentary film 9/11 by James Hanlon and French filmmaker brothers Jules and Gédéon Naudet. The directors set out to make a film profiling a rookie New York City firefighter, but became documenters of one of the most unforgettable days in U.S. history as the events of 9/11 unfolded.
The rookie—21-year-old Tony Benatatos—was based at a firehouse just seven blocks from the World Trade Center. While on the road during the filming, Jules Naudet heard a roar above his head, turned his camera skyward, and captured the only image of the first plane striking the World Trade Center. With narration by co-director and firefighter James Hanlon, the directors provide an important record of and tribute to Benatatos and the other first responders who rushed to Ground Zero that fateful day.
This documentary is rated PG-13 and contains some graphic visual and audio content that may be emotionally challenging.
“We selected this particular film as the first date of our film series coincides with Sept. 11 and we felt it was only right to mark the day by thinking about and discussing 9/11,” Vanessa Pearson, Interim Dean of Students and committee member, said. “In honor of the day, we’ll also have remembrance candles and the opportunity for people to write out their thoughts and reflections.”
All are invited to attend this free film screening and the other screenings that will take place during the Fall 2018 semester. Film selections for the October, November, and December screenings will be announced later in September.
For more information about the Salmagundi Film Series, contact Gayla Shaw at 207-768-9452 or email umpi@maine.edu.