Entertainment : In Depth: \'The Martian\'

The most surprising thing about “The Martian” is how relaxed and funny it is.” ~ Matt Zoller Seitz

We anticipate astronomical crowds for “The Martian,” playing the Palace Friday, November 20 through Wednesday, November 26 at 7 pm, and Monday, November 23 at 2 pm. Tickets may be purchased in advance at www.vintonpalce.org, or at the Box Office.

The theatre will be closed on Thanksgiving.

Director Ridley Scott and big screen sensation Matt Damon pair up in this film about an astronaut (Damon) surviving a space disaster on a distant, lonely planet. Much like Tom Hanks’ “Cast Away,” “The Martian” is at heart a lost-at-sea epic adventure, in space.

The support cast features Jessica Chastain, Kate Mara, Jeff Daniels, Michael Pena, Kristie Wiig, and Sean Bean.

DECEMBER starts out for the kids with “The Peanuts Movie,” followed by the latest Bond adventure “Spectre,” Daniel Radcliffe in “Victor Frankenstein,” and for the holiday week – “Mockingjay Part 2.”

Look for a special Iowa made film “Up on the Wooftop” to be shown in matinees Saturday and Sunday, December 21 and 22.

“Star Wars” fans, the Palace will be getting the latest in January. I’ve had a few patrons ask for an all-day Saturday run of all the “Star Wars” films. Who’s interested? Another option – one or two a weekend leading up to the Palace opening. Please send me your thoughts.