UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies and the Burke Lectureship on Religion & Society, in partnership with Digital Gym Cinema, proudly announce the third season of the Burke Revival Film & Discussion Series. Returning to UC San Diego Park & Market’s Digital Gym Cinema, the acclaimed series continues its mission to explore profound ethical, spiritual, and societal questions through powerful works of cinema.

Synopsis: Freddie Quell (Joaquin Phoenix) is a troubled, boozy drifter struggling with the trauma of World War II and whatever inner demons ruled his life before that. On a fateful night in 1950, Freddie boards a passing boat and meets Lancaster Dodd (Philip Seymour Hoffman), the charismatic leader of a religious movement called the Cause. Freddie tries hard to adhere to Dodd’s weird teachings and forms a close bond with his mentor, even as other members of Dodd’s inner circle see him as a threat.

The theme for Season 3 of the Burke Lectureship: Religion & Society/Revival Film Screening and Discussion Series is AUTHORITARIANISM IN FULL CINEMATIC VIEW. “The Master” is an on-point expose of the dynamics of authoritarianism in a religious cult setting. Our first offering in this series last fall was “Pan’s  Labyrinth”, tracking authoritarianism in both family and the political/war. In this presentation, “The Master”  drags us through the stormy relationship between a cult guru and his followers. The tortured intimacy, brutal conflicts, and sensual connection is a graphic portrayal of authoritarian impulses and totalitarian personalities. Freddie & Lancaster can be seen operating in many everyday contexts courtesy of “breaking news headlines.” Director Paul Thomas Anderson features the lust and cruelty, as well as the affection and acceptance in the authoritarian relationship. This film treatment both  enlightens and confounds us as we visually experience the full cinematic view of authoritarianism.

Showtimes:
Wednesday, February 25, 2026: 7:00

Ticket Prices: $13 Regular / $11 Students & Seniors / $9 Members
Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-EGSWpBDbho