In conjunction with our exhibition Jack Kirby: Heroes and Humanity, the Skirball Cultural Center presents a four-session film discussion program exploring, in a unique way, the rich legacy of comic book storytelling in cinema.

Join us over eight weeks as we examine the cultural impact of comic books and how their visions transformed modern storytelling in surprising ways. Each session features curated films that illuminate different aspects of comic book artistry and narrative.

Among the films to be viewed and discussed:

• The Whole Wide World
  Directed by Dan Ireland (1996, 111 min., Rated PG)

  The poignant story of pulp fiction writer Robert E. Howard.

• Professor Marston and the Wonder Women
  Directed by Angela Robinson (2017, 108 min., Rated R)

  Exploring the fascinating origins of Wonder Woman.

• American Splendor
  Directed by Shari Springer Berman and Robert Pulcini (2003, 101 min., Rated R)

  The groundbreaking blend of autobiography and comic art.

• Ghost World
  Directed by Terry Zwigoff (2001, 111 min., Rated R)

  A masterful adaptation of independent comics featuring Scarlett Johansson's breakout role.

• Fast Color
  Directed by Julia Hart (2018, 100 min., Rated PG-13)

  A fresh take on superhero narratives through diverse perspectives.

• The Dark Knight
  Directed by Christopher Nolan (2008, 152 min., Rated PG-13)

  Christopher Nolan's definitive superhero masterpiece widely regarded as the pinnacle of the genre.

• Brittle Glory
  Directed by Stewart Schill (1996, 84 min., Not rated)

  Tony Curtis stars in this revealing satire about an aging actor confronting Hollywood's changing landscape.

We'll also feature select documentaries exploring the profound underground influence on comic book history and the visionary work of artists like Will Eisner, Art Spiegelman, and R. Crumb.

Please note: While Jack Kirby is credited as a co-creator of many MCU characters and concepts, the extent of his direct contributions varies.

Facilitator: Theodore Rand has led previous film discussion groups at the Skirball on the films of Billy Wilder, the Coen Brothers, and Wes Anderson, among others. He is a graduate of New York University and has held technology innovation positions at Miramax, Yahoo! Media Group, Fox Networks, and the Walt Disney Company.