Wachholz College Center Announces Return of Summer Film Series: “Born in Montana”

The Wachholz College Center (WCC) is proud to present a new summer film series Wednesday evenings at 7pm beginning August 12 through September 9. The “Born in Montana” series includes five films whose actors or directors were born in the state of Montana.

Handpicked by Flathead natives and cinephiles Clayton McDougall and WCC’s own Technical Director Dwight Camilluci, each screening features an introduction by the duo, followed by an informal discussion after the film. The series highlights artists with Montana roots like Academy Award-winning actor Gary Cooper, acclaimed actress Michelle Williams and visionary directors John Dahl and David Lynch.

"We decided to highlight some talent that originated in our state with the goal of expanding our viewers' taste in film. By joining us for this series, as well as future series, we hope our community is ready to venture further and further into the wide world of cinema." said McDougall.

The series kicks off Wednesday, August 12 with “Viva Knievel!”, starring Butte-born motorcycle icon Evel Knievel as a fictionalized version of himself who foils a drug smuggling plot with the daring stunts and fearless spirit that made him an international legend. On Wednesday, August 19, the series continues with the Academy Award-winning Western “High Noon," starring Helena native Gary Cooper, whose iconic performance as Marshal Will Kane anchors one of cinema's greatest tales of courage and conviction. Next up on August 26, “Wendy and Lucy” stars Kalispell native Michelle Williams in a moving independent drama about a young woman whose cross-country journey unravels after a series of setbacks leave her searching for her beloved dog. The spotlight then turns to Billings-born director John Dahl's stylish neo-noir thriller “Red Rock West" on September 2, where a drifter becomes entangled in a dangerous web of deception, mistaken identity and murder. The series concludes on Wednesday, September 9 with Missoula native David Lynch's acclaimed psychological mystery “Mulholland Drive,” a haunting, dreamlike exploration of identity, ambition and illusion that remains one of the most influential films of the modern era.

Tickets for individual films are available for $10 each. Purchase a series pass for all five films at a discounted price of $40. Tickets are on sale now, with discounts available for senior citizens.

For more information on the series or to buy tickets, visit wccmt.org or contact the ticket office at 406-756-1400.