Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi’s University Cinema will highlight seven important movies that employ a variety of documentary-making styles during the six-week series, “The Documentary Experience” beginning on Wednesday, March 22 at 7:30 p.m. in Bay Hall, Room 104.

“The films, which cover a wide array of subjects, were selected by Dr. Bill Huie, professor of communication and TV-film. Prior to each film, Huie will speak briefly about the documentary and the style employed in its making.

"These films represent a wide spectrum of approaches, often innovative and daring, ranging from the portrait documentary to investigative reports to the personal essay," said Huie.

Documentary topics range from a treaty dispute between the Canadian government and members of the Mohawk nation chronicled in “You are on Indian Land” to "Born into Brothels" which follows the lives of children of prostitutes in Calcutta. The movie won the 2004 Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.

The films in the series are:

March 22: "You Are on Indian Land" (1969, 36 min.) In this film produced by George Stoney, the Mohawk tribe in Canada closes an international bridge in a treaty dispute with the Canadian government.

"The Last Cowboy" (2005, 84 min.) Recorded over a 24-year period, this poignant film by director Jon Alpert chronicles the life of cattle rancher Vern Sager of Porcupine, South Dakota.

March 29: "The Thin Blue Line" (1988, 101 min.). Through interviews and re-enactments, this landmark film directed by Errol Morris sheds new light on a murder conviction and led to the freeing of an innocent man.

April 5: "Señorita Extraviada/Missing Young Woman" (2001, 74 min.) Directed by Lourdes Portillo, this film follows the investigation of the mysterious kidnappings, rapes, and murders of over 300 young women of Juárez, Mexico.

April 12: "Blue Vinyl" (2002, 96 min.) Directed by Judith Helfand, this is a story of how the filmmaker’s parents plans to use vinyl siding on their house takes her on a humorous odyssey of discovery and protest.

April 19: "From Two Men and a War "(2005, 60 min.) This film directed by documentary pioneer Robert Drew reflects on his experiences in World War II and his acquaintance with legendary war correspondent and journalist Ernie Pyle.

April 26: "Born into Brothels" (2004, 84 min.). Directed by Ross Kaufman and Zana Briski, “Born into Brothels” explores how resilient children of prostitutes in Calcutta demonstrate the transformative power of artistic expression.


All movies will begin at 7:30 p.m. in Bay Hall, Room 104 and are free and open to the public. For more information, call (361) 825-2316.