Define 'violence'.  Wim Wenders provocative film dares to try. 

The End of Violence chronicles a cross section of contemporary Los Angeles.  Actors, stunt women, studio execs, rappers, gardeners, refugees, scientists, police officers and government officials  - all play key roles in Nicholas Klein's script.  The German born Wenders finds beauty in his adopted home, taking viewers from the heights of the Griffith Observatory to the expansive possibilities of the Pacific.  The soundtrack incorporates the best of L.A.'s bands, from Silver Lake's eels to East L.A.'s Los Lobos.  Even Chris Douridas, former DJ of KCRW's "Morning Becoming Eclectic" makes his acting debut in the film. 

The issues raised in the 1997 film become hauntingly relevant in light of recent gun violence.  While many in Hollywood try to duck responsibility, Wenders considers the implications of images.  He forces his filmmaker, played by Bill Pullman, to deal with the 'fruit' of his 'art.'

As our politicians weigh gun control legislation, The End of Violence asks questions central to the debate.  Can violence be eradicated?  At what cost to society?  At what price to individual freedom? The balanced presentation of The End of Violence goads both liberal and conservative consciences.

Wenders' panoply of characters face urgent questions for us all.  Should we ever lower our guard and risk being hurt?  Can our desire for love and intimacy propel us beyond our fear?  We may become victims of emotional or physical violence, or we may find a reason to hope.  Do we dare to take the risk?

Craig Detweiler completed his MFA from USC's School of Cinema and Television in 1996.  His short films have screened in festivals across the globe from Auckland to Amsterdam.  His feature documentary, Williams Syndrome: A Highly Musical Species has won numerous awards including the Silver Award at Worldfest Charleston, and the CINE Golden Eagle.  Craig's feature screenplay The Duke has just been completed by Keystone Entertainment and will be in theaters later this year.

Discussion Panelists (November 7 screening only)  Rev. Rebecca Ver Straten-McSparran and others TBA