Submitted by Salina Art Center Cinema
The award-winning world of Raquel Jaramillo Palacio's Wonder returns in White Bird, a powerful WWII drama directed by Marc Forster and starring Helen Mirren as Grandmère Sara Blum. This poignant tale, playing at the Salina Art Center Cinema, 150 South Santa Fe Avenue in Salina from November 15-20, explores themes of compassion, resilience, and history lessons.
White Bird follows Sara Blum, Julian’s Grandmère from Wonder, as she recounts her harrowing experiences during the Holocaust. Through her story, Sara seeks to teach her intolerant grandson, Julian, a critical lesson about kindness and humanity.
The film’s narrative alternates between present-day scenes with Julian (Bryce Gheisar) and Grandmère and flashbacks to Sara's teenage years in a small French village. Teenage Sara (Ariella Glaser) lives a carefree life until the Nazi invasion changes everything. She is forced into hiding with the help of Julien (Orlando Schwerdt), an ostracized classmate who overcomes his own hardships to become a hero.
Forster, known for emotionally resonant films like The Kite Runner, brings the same sensitivity to this adaptation. The blossoming romance between Sara and Julien is handled with care, balancing sweetness with the sobering realities of war. Mirren delivers a compelling performance as Grandmère, anchoring the film's emotional core.
While suitable for younger audiences, White Bird doesn’t shy away from the darker truths of the Holocaust, making it a meaningful experience for all viewers.
The film is sponsored by Wedel Financial, Sydney, and Morrie Soderberg, and it is rated PG-13 for violence, profanity, and mature themes.
Showtimes and tickets are available now.
Upcoming Films at Salina Art Center Cinema
November 22 | They Call Her Death
A Kansas-made film shot entirely on 16mm, They Call Her Death tells the story of Molly Pray, a woman on a bloody quest for justice on the American prairie. Praised for its art direction and compelling narrative, the film has garnered multiple awards, including “Best Feature Film” at the Austin Horror Film Festival 2024.
Rated R for its intense themes, They Call Her Death will screen at 9 p.m. on November 22, followed by a Q&A with the filmmakers.
For more details, visit the Salina Art Center Cinema website.