Friday Art Film Series Launched to coincide with Gallery Cruise

Vashon Film Society is launching a new film series with island art lovers in mind. The Friday Art Films Series will coincide with the First Friday Gallery Cruise, and VFS hopes to provide art walkers with a cinematic ending to their night uptown.

The first movie in the series is slated for this Friday, September 7, and film goers will be treated to a meditation about work, family and art with the feature "Jiro Dreams of Sushi."

Vashon Theatre owner Eileen Wolcott loves the idea of partnering with Vashon Film Society to show single screenings of acclaimed films that might have a hard time drawing audiences for a full week run.

"It’s hard to preview so many great films that Vashon audiences would love and not be able to showcase some just because a full week isn’t feasible," said Wolcott. She suggested the well-reviewed documentary "Jiro Dreams of Sushi" to Vashon Film Society organizers, and plans are in motion to show art films on all Gallery Cruise nights this fall.

Friday’s film tells the story of 85-year-old Jiro Ono, dubbed by many to be the world’s greatest sushi chef. As proprietor of Sukiyabashi Jiro, a humble 10-seat, sushi restaurant in a Tokyo subway station, Ono was awarded a prestigious three-star Michelin Guide rating, and sushi fanatics from around the world journey to the tiny restaurant for a coveted seat at Jiro’s sushi bar.

Capital Times film critic Rob Thomas wrote, "Even after you’ve eaten your fill, Gelb’s film is memorable not just as a foodie paradise, but as a lovely, insightful portrait of a man in a lifelong search for perfection."

"Jiro Dreams of Sushi" is rated PG and will play at the Vashon Theatre at 9 pm only on September 7. Admission is $7.