About Reel Deal

The Reel Deal is a unique film program sponsored by the Association for Psychoanalytic Thought and the Michigan Psychoanalytic Society designed to offer local cinephiles  the opportunity to express, explore and expand their film experience.  Originally designed for psychotherapists, the program also  welcomes individuals from broad backgrounds and levels of film knowledge.  Such diversity creates an exciting atmosphere of learning and discussion. 

 The Reel Deal is best known for its annual film program presenting  a series of four recent and superior films. (Last year’s film choices were “Hurt Locker”,  “Babies”, “Precious,” and “Up in the Air”) .  The afternoon program consists of extensive film clips  with  detailed discussion from  the   “director’s chair.”  This  provides the participants with the opportunity to better understand how the actual structure of the film (shot selection, mise en scene, editing and director style) creates the film experience.  The  psychological perspective is explored  by a guest psychotherapist.  An academic expert (philosopher, cultural anthropologist, musicologist etc.) raises particular issues about the film theme and content.  The program always concludes with ample time for Q and A and audience discussion—ALWAYS lively and thought provoking.  This year’s film selections include: ” Black Swan”, “King’s Speech”, “Social Network” and “Never Let Me Go”.  (dates and times are available on the home page).   Programs are usually held at the Bloomfield  Township Public Library on Sunday afternoons from 1-3pm.  Light snacks and a comfortable location create an engaging environment.

The Reel Deal also offers more informal discussions of current films in its program “Reel Deal Goes to the Movies’.    Discussions follow the film–often at the Detroit Film Theatre or at the Maple, Main or Birmingham 8. Announcements are spontaneous, so please check out scheduled events on the home page.

The new Reel Deal blog site will offer another opportunity to discuss a wide range of film ideas and reactions–good or bad– with fellow film lovers. The topics are deliberately broad to capture the interest of various movie buffs.  Please feel free to visit often.

Reel Deal invites you to increase your film IQ and  share your appreciation.  If you have any questions, please contact Reel Deal co-chairs David Lundin and Jolyn Wagner through the information provided on the site under “Contact Us”.   See you at the Movies!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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