You probably know by now that perennial badass Robert De Niro donated his complete collection of film-related materials to the Harry Ransom Center in 2006, including annotated scripts and research materials from his character studies (that's right, De Niro is totally an anthropologist.) One of the main reasons De Niro chose the acclaimed University of Texas vault-of-goodness that is the Harry Ransom Center is because he knew that the materials would be available for students and the public to enjoy and ponder. Anthropological pondering continues tonight as the HRC presents The Deer Hunter, the third in their Fall Robert DeNiro Film Series and one of the most haunting character studies ever made.

We don't know about you, but we have never fought in a war, much less a jungle war, and therefore cannot completely understand what that does to a human being. Less than 30 minutes of run time is dedicated to "wartime" footage, as The Deer Hunter instead focuses on the emotional, physical and psychological toll that Vietnam took on a group of Rusyn-American men as they gamble with their lives, their freedom and the bonds that hold them all together.

Amidst a public outcry of racism toward the Vietnamese people, The Deer Hunter still managed to win five Academy Awards in 1978, including Best Picture, Best Director for Michael Cimino and Best Supporting Actor for Christopher Walken. Needless to say, it is a fine film.

The screening is free and open to the public, and will be introduced by Ransom Center Associate Curator of Film Steve Wilson, who will also discuss selected items from the De Niro collection. Doors open 30 minutes before the start of the film and seating is limited, so you may want to show up a little early.

Harry Ranson Center Presents The Deer Hunter
Monday, October 22nd
Harry Ransom Center
7pm, Free
[Info]