USA, 1966, Mike Nichols

Influential cinematographer Haskell Wexler won the first of his two Oscars for his monochrome work on Mike Nichols’ debut film, a blistering adaptation of Edward Albee’s four-hander about an after-dinner gathering from hell. (Wexler’s prize was the last-ever Academy Award for “Best Cinematography, Black & White.” After that, b&w competed with color for the statuette). Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, Sandy Dennis, and George Segal star in the film, in which a middle-aged college professor and his wife invite a new faculty member and his young spouse to their home for a nightcap after a school cocktail party. But the alcohol, combined with the late hour, unleashes a torrent of pent-up vitriol and abuse between the older marrieds. This taboo-breaking film was nominated for 13 Oscars—one in every category for which it was eligible—winning four. Adults only! 35mm. 129 min. Special admission $14; members, CIA & CSU I.D. holders, and those age 25 & under $11. No passes.