Step into the world of Paris, Texas, an iconic 1984 film by acclaimed German filmmaker Wim Wenders. A true masterpiece of the road movie genre, this poignant story blends breathtaking visuals, a powerful script, and an unforgettable soundtrack to create a “gesamtkunstwerk” – a total work of art. Join us this week as we celebrate the film’s 41st anniversary with a fully restored digital release, bringing its timeless beauty back to life.
Genre: road trip, drama
Language: English, subtitles: Dutch
Length: 145 minutes
At its heart is Travis (Harry Dean Stanton), a mysterious and broken loner wandering the deserts of the American Southwest. Emerging from years of estrangement, he embarks on a journey to reconnect with his young son, Hunter, and together they set out to find Hunter’s mother (Nastassja Kinski). As Travis navigates both physical and emotional landscapes, he seeks redemption and the hope of rebuilding his family on a piece of land he bought in Paris.
Filmmaker Wim Wenders made a moving character study and a highlight of the road movie genre. He combined a huge amount of artistic talent - Robby Müller (camera), Sam Shepard (screenplay) and Ry Cooder (music), who together created a “gesamtkunstwerk.” An instant film classic!
The film will be preceded by an introduction by one of the members of the SG Student Film Committee.
Awards
Paris, Texas earned critical acclaim, winning the Palme d’Or, FIPRESCI Prize, and Prize of the Ecumenical Jury at Cannes. It also won Best Direction at the BAFTAs and was nominated for Best Film, Screenplay, Score, and it was nominated for a Golden Globe for Best Foreign Film.
Reviews
“It is an eerie, sad story whose meaning disappears over the vast horizon as if on a highway heading away through the desert.“ The Guardian
“Wim Wenders’ heartbreaking, profoundly American masterpiece...The climactic scene – set in a peep-show booth – features a stunning autographical monologue that’s one of the most mesmerizing pieces of screen acting ever filmed.” Rolling Stone
“Enigmatic and fascinating.” Empire
Ticket information
This film will be shown at Filmhuis De Zwarte Doos.
- Tickets must be purchased online in advance and can be bought by clicking the black “Order” button on this page.
- Cash or card payments are not accepted at the ticket counter.
For more information about tickets, refund policies, and other details, click here.
Please be on time
The screening of the film begins promptly at 19:30 (with no pre-film advertisements), and the cinema hall will open at 19:10. We kindly request that you arrive at the ticket counter at least 10 minutes before the start of the film to ensure a smooth and timely experience for all.
The Studium Generale film program is created in collaboration with the Student Film Committee and Natlab.