Press Release: Visions of Texas Film Festival
Bryan, Texas - The Queen's Film Society announces its first "Visions of Texas Film Festival," intended to be an annual celebration of Texas-themed cinema, set to take place at the historic Queen Theatre (110 S. Main St.), September 10-15, 2024.
This year's festival features a compelling lineup of films that capture the spirit and cultural richness of Texas across many genres, from the classic Western to the quirky comedy, from Hollywood musical to historical biopic. The festival includes a 50th anniversary screening of the horrifying Texas Chain Saw Massacre and a 40th anniversary screening of the dramatic classic Paris, Texas. Each screening will be introduced by a notable author or film scholar.
Keith Marrocco, President of The Queen's Film Society, expressed enthusiasm about the festival's impact, stating, “The Visions of Texas Film Festival not only celebrates the diverse stories of Texas through cinema but also brings our community together to appreciate the art form that connects us all. We are excited to present a lineup that reflects the heart and soul of Texas storytelling.”
The schedule is as follows:
Tuesday, Sept. 10 - The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas (114 min., 1982)
Pre-Screening Reception, 5:00-6:20 p.m., Crown Bar: 3rd and 4th floor of The Queen Theatre. Showtimes: 6:30 and 9 p.m. This large-scale musical comedy stars Dolly Parton and Burt Reynolds in a lighthearted look at the infamous Chicken Ranch, a beloved Texas brothel. As a crusading television reporter aims to shut it down, the madam and the local sheriff work to keep their cherished institution running. With catchy tunes and lively performances, the film is a charming, fact-based slice of Texas culture and history. Rated R. Introduced by Sean Griffin, Author of Free and Easy?: A Defining History of the American Film Musical Genre.
Wednesday, Sept. 11 - Selena (127 min., 1997)
Showtimes: 6:30 and 9:20 p.m. Jennifer Lopez stars in this biographical drama about the life and tragic death of Tejano music star Selena Quintanilla-Pérez. The film follows her rise to fame, her family dynamics, and enduring legacy. A heartfelt tribute to an icon whose music continues to inspire. Rated PG. Introduced by Juan J. Alonzo, Author of Badmen, Bandits, and Folk Heroes: The Ambivalence of Mexican American Identity in Literature and Film.
Thursday, Sept. 12 - The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (83 min., 1974)
Pre-Screening Reception, 5:30—6:45 p.m., Crown Bar: 3rd and 4th floor of The Queen Theatre. Showtimes: 7 and 9 p.m. This groundbreaking shocker tells the terrifying tale of a group of friends who fall victim to a family of cannibals, including the infamous Leatherface. Known for its intense atmosphere, nerve-wracking soundtrack, and raw style, it remains a seminal work in the horror genre and a chilling portrayal of rural Texas. Rated R. Introduced by Rick Worland, Author of The Horror Film: An Introduction.
Friday, Sept. 13 - Rio Bravo (141 min., 1959)
Showtimes: 6:30 and 9:30 p.m. Starring John Wayne, Dean Martin, and Ricky Nelson, this classic Howard Hawks Western centers on a small-town sheriff who, with the help of a ragtag group of allies, must keep a murderous thug and his gang of outlaws at bay. Featuring memorable performances and thrilling action, the widely beloved Rio Bravo is a quintessential Western. Not rated. Introduced by John H. Lenihan, Author of Showdown: Confronting Modern America in the Western Film.
Saturday, Sept. 14 - Paris, Texas (142 min., 1984)
Showtimes: 6:30 and 9:35 p.m. German auteur Wim Wenders and American screenwriters Sam Shepard and L.M. Kit Carson collaborated on this unique insider/outsider portrait of 1980s Texas, from the vast west desert to skyscraper canyons of Houston. Harry Dean Stanton stars as a man who, after vanishing for four years, reappears to reconnect with his young son (Hunter Carson) and estranged wife (Nastassja Kinski). A poignant, visually stunning exploration of family, memory, and redemption. Rated R. Introduced by Stefanie Harris, Associate Dean, College of Arts & Sciences, Texas A&M University. Closing night reception at Hush and Whisper Distillery Co, 219 N Main St, Bryan, from 8:45 to 10:30 p.m.
Sunday, Sept. 15 - True Stories (89 min., 1986)
One Show Only: 5 p.m. Directed by and starring The Talking Heads’ David Byrne, this quirky, affectionate comedy portrays the fictional town of Virgil as its eccentric residents prepare for a “Celebration of Specialness.” With its offbeat humor, catchy tunes, and unique narrative style, True Stories celebrates the surprising diversity and charm of small-town Texas life. A great cast, including John Goodman, Swoosie Kurtz, Tito Larriva, and Spalding Gray add to the fun. Rated PG. Introduced by Daniel Humphrey, Professor of Film and Media Studies at Texas A&M University.
For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit thequeensfilmsociety.org.
The Queen's Film Society is grateful for the support of the City of Bryan and our community sponsors. This event is funded in part by a generous Arts & Culture Development Grant from the City of Bryan.
For media inquiries, contact: • Email: info@thequeensfilmsociety.org • Phone: (979) 493-0588.
About The Queen's Film Society: The Queen's Film Society is dedicated to celebrating and promoting the art of cinema. Based in Bryan, Texas, the society organizes film screenings, educational programs, and special events to foster a vibrant film culture in the region.
Note to Editors: High-resolution images and interviews are available upon request. The festival schedule is subject to change. Please check the official website for the latest updates.
