Return to GPL Home

Sunday Cinema @ GPL

Groton Public Library Endowment Trust


Groton Public Library events calendar


For more information about this event, please call the library:
978-448-8000

Take a Walk on the Wild Side: Independent Films about Independent People

March 2 – April 13, 2008
Sundays, 2:00 PM, Sibley Hall


Made possible with the support of The Groton Public Library Endowment Fund

Journeys of self-discovery can take us in directions unknown, with consequences we cannot anticipate. Join us for our Sunday Cinema film series saluting those whose independent spirits led them into uncommon adventures. The films spotlight unique individuals setting out on solo journeys, following paths that many would not dare to tread. What motivates these travelers, what inspires them to take on risks, to conquer obstacles, to venture beyond the boundaries of the complacent "civilized" world?

This film series is being offered in conjunction with the GrotonREADS! program, with emphasis on outdoor adventures and journeys into the wild.

We encourage our audiences to participate in group discussion after the screenings. We have invited several guest speakers to answer questions about the film topics, as well as share their insight on the challenges faced by independent film-makers and the rugged individualists chosen as the subjects for their films. (Guest speakers to be announced.)

Scheduled Films:

  • March 2 — "Southbounders" (2005)

    A drama about a restless young woman who hikes the length of the Appalachian Trail. Traveling South from Maine to Georgia, she sets out ill-prepared for the journey, but adapts to her own strengths and failings along the trail. Film not rated. (86 min.)


  • March 9 — "Never Cry Wolf" (1983)

    A dramatization of biologist/conservationist Farley Mowat’s experiences living alone in the Canadian tundra, documenting the relationship between caribou herds and the local wolf population. While Mowat’s assignment was to deliver the evidence needed to rationalize hunting and killing of the wolves in order to preserve the dwindling caribou herds, he slowly realizes that human intervention in the ecosystem is the true danger to both caribou and wolf. Rated PG. (91 min.)


  • March 16 — "Air Guitar Nation" (2006)

    Keep on rocking in the Free World! This documentary delivers the goods on major players David "C-Diddy" Jung and Dan "Björn Turoque" Crane as they compete for the crown of America’s Air Guitar Champion, and head for Oulu, Finland to represent the US in the Air Guitar World Championships. Film not rated; virtually no adult language or content; however, one very brief scene includes full-frontal male nudity that parents might find unsuitable for pre-teens. Bring your own air-guitar, if you dare! (81 min.)


  • March 23 — Easter Sunday, library closed


  • March 30 — "2000 Miles to Maine: Adventures on the Appalachian Trail" (2004) — Tie-in with GrotonREADS!

    Documentary film, inspired by Bill Bryson's A Walk in the Woods, offering a glimpse at those who set aside their everyday lives to walk the length of the Appalachian Trail, only to discover they may not be up to the challenge. Film not rated. (85 min.)


  • April 6 — "Into the Wild" (2007)

    Based on John Krakauer’s book, this is a dramatization of a true-story. Christopher McCandless is a young man who leaves his home, family, and possessions behind in order to embark on a singular journey into the wilds of Alaska. Rated R, for language and some nudity. Parents must sign an authorization for teens attending this film. Due to the mature subject matter, we do not recommend this film for viewers under the age of 14. (140 min.)


  • April 13 — Snow date, if needed



Light refreshments will be served, including popcorn, GORP, and sodas. DVD’s, posters, books, and other raffle prizes will be awarded at each of the screenings.

All events are FREE and open to the public. All are welcome! Sign up online or call the library. Seating space is limited; online registration for attendance of the films is requested, but not required.



2/20/08