This is a must see film, first of all for the eagles, who are as much the stars of this film as the actors. But it is not just the eagles. The film is set in a transitional centre where long term prisoners are expected to be eased into the outside world. Among the new intakes are Viktor Khadem, who has spent 18 years in prison for murder; Paul, a young kid with family issues; and Shane, a confused kid who acts as a go-between. All three are assigned to Officer Matt Perry, played by Hugo Weaving, who believes that something can be gained from working with the local Wildlife Sanctuary. The relationship with birds has a profound effect on some of the inmates. The performances are fabulous, particularly from Hugo Weaving and Andrew Payne, the bird handler. Don’t forget: this Sunday 19 October 7pm.

Another wonderful feel good movie for the James next Saturday, with toe-tapping nostalgic music to match: the story of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons begins in Belleville, New Jersey, in 1951 when the young Frankie was getting into trouble with his friend Tommy De Vito, a petty crim … and one thing led to another and the Four Seasons was formed. The film features hits like “Sherry”, “Walk Like a Man” and “Big Girls Don’t Cry”. Directed by Clint Eastwood, there is not only great music: it is a great story as well. Catch it either at 4pm or 7pm next Saturday.

In April 1977 Robyn Davidson began a 3,200 km trek from Alice Springs to the West Australian coast accompanied by three adult camels, one baby camel and a dog named Diggity. An adventurous outsider who rejected city life, Robyn, played in the film by the tremendously versatile young actor, Mia Wasikowska, reluctantly accepts sponsorship from National Geographic magazine which means she has to put up with the occasional presence on her trek of American photographer, Rick. But mostly she’s alone in the outback with the animals, including the wonderfully cranky and unpredictable camels. Don’t miss this wonderful Australian film with amazing photography and an adventure through the outback that most people would find hard to imagine.

On Thursday 4 September at 10.30am our next classic movie, the dark and erotic ‘The Postman Always Rings Twice’, followed on Saturday 6 at 2.30pm and Sunday 7 at 5pm by Sunshine on Leith (PG), a delightful family film featuring music by the Proclaimers.

Hiccup and Toothless, the dragon, are back and coming to the James Theatre next Saturday 23 August at 3pm. When they discover an ice cave that is home to hundreds of new wild dragons and the mysterious Dragon Rider, the two friends find themselves at the center of a battle to protect the peace. Come and enjoy choc tops, popcorn and our great lolly bags while you share in Hiccup and Toothless’ next wild and exciting adventure.

Omar is accustomed to dodging surveillance bullets to cross the separation wall to visit his secret love Nadia. But occupied Palestine knows neither simple love nor clear-cut war. On the other side of the wall, the sensitive young baker Omar becomes a freedom fighter who must face painful choices about life and manhood. Nominated for an Oscar, the film portrays both the Palestinian and Israeli sides of this conflict. A very moving film. Starts at 7pm.

Belle is a truly stunning film, inspired by the true story of Dido Elizabeth Belle, the illegitimate mixed race daughter of Admiral Sir John Lindsay. Raised by her aristocratic great-uncle Lord Mansfield and his wife, Belle’s lineage affords her certain privileges, yet her status prevents her from the traditions of noble social standing. While her cousin Elizabeth chases suitors for marriage, Belle is left on the sidelines wondering if she will ever find love. After meeting an idealistic young vicar’s son bent on changing society, he and Belle help shape Lord Mansfield’s role as Lord Chief Justice to end slavery in England. Saturday 26 July at 4pm and 7pm

Starting in France with the “snooty old world wine snobs”, the film moves to China, “a nation suddenly in the grip of “wine fever,” as one Chinese wine journalist terms the preoccupation luxury-conscious China has with outrageously expensive Bordeaux wines”. Enjoy this amazing and sometimes funny documentary, preceded by the wine options game and your chance to win a great bottle of red, donated by Camyr Allyn Wines (no skill needed for this game, just luck!). So be there at 7pm, so you don’t miss your chance.

And don’t forget to book your table for the Jan Preston cabaret on 2 August…

The Friends’ third annual cabaret, the high point of  the Live year at the James, will feature Jan Preston, amazing and versatile boogie woogie and ragtime piano player. You will be mesmerized by her performance whilst enjoying a delicious 3-course meal. BYO. Numbers are strictly limited. Book now to avoid disappointment. Tickets $75 each or $420 for a table of 6. Hurry!

With howling winds and winter weather outside escape to the James Theatre next Saturday for our foreign film festival. Come for one film or come for five! And don’t forget to book for the great supper behind the screen with complementary wine supplied by Camyr Allyn wines – their all new sparkling Rose. Book for supper by close of business Wednesday. And join us for some fabulous films!