It's been an up-and-down year for the College of Santa Fe and its movie theater, The Screen. When the college entered dire financial straits in late 2008/early 2009 (or, rather, it entered them a long time ago, but only revealed to the public and its students, staff and faculty at that time), the future of the movie theater, which is renowned for showcasing acclaimed independent films, hung in the balance; it was even reported on Jan. 13, 2009 by the New Mexican that The Screen wold definitely be closing at the end of the month. The public outcry that ensued was formidable, and sources close to The Screen founder and director Brent Kliewer say that he, at one time, resolved to keep The Screen operational, even if it meant doing it on a volunteer basis.

Thankfully the need for Kliewer's volunteer hours was not necessary, as the community rallied around the movie theater and even Bill Richardson declared his support, as SFR reported here on sfreeper.com. The college ceased operations in May 2009, but reopened quickly (reported here in the New Mexican) under the auspices of Laureate Education Inc., a private company with whom CSF has been doing the will-they-or-won't-they-buy-the-college dance for a few years now. So the school is open, students are taking classes, professors have jobs, and the movie reels are still spinning.

So, long story short, The Screen is safe. An email sent out by Laureate this weekend announced the Screen's 2009-2010 season, the highlights of which include The Horse Boy, opening on Nov. 20; Rembrandt's 'J'Accuse', opening Dec. 18; and The Red Shoes, opening Jan. 1.

For more information on The Screen and featured films, check out SFR's movie caps every week, or visit thescreensf.com.