'Bill Cunningham New York,' 'Poitche' open at the Ross

Catherin Deneuve and Gerard Depardieu
Catherin Deneuve and Gerard Depardieu

Movies featuring the influential career of a New York Times fashion photographer and the humorous story of a "trophy wife" who steps up to manage her husband's company open today at the Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center. Both films play through June 2.

"Bill Cunningham New York" documents the life and career of New York Times photographer Bill Cunningham. For decades, the Schwinn-riding shutterbug has obsessively and inventively chronicled fashion trends and high society charity soirees for the Times' "Style" section. His work is featured in Times columns "Evcening Hours" and "On the Street." The film is a delicate, funny and often poignant portrait of the dedicated artist.

Set in 1977 in a provincial French town,"Poitche" is a free adaptation of the 1970s hit comic play of the same name. Catherine Deneuve plays Suzanne Pujol, a submissive, housebound "trophy housewife" – or poitche. She steps in to manage the umbrella factory run by her wealthy and tyrannical husband (Fabrice Luchini) after the workers go on strike and take him hostage.

To everyone's surprise, Suzanne proves herself a competent and assertive woman of action. However, when her husband returns in top form after a restful cruise, things get complicated.

The film also features Gérard Depardieu as a former union leader and Suzanne's ex-beau who still holds a flame for her.

For more information on films at the Ross, including show times and ticket prices, click the link below or call (402) 472-5353.

More details at: http://www.theross.org