One of the most beguiling, profound films ever made about the elusive art of acting, Desplechin’s first English-language work stars Summer Phoenix in a fascinating, almost feral performance as the enigmatic title character, who goes from rebellious, odd-duck child of the Jewish slums to celebrated stage actress in late-19th-century London. With its starkly unromanticized depiction of the theater and outré central performance, Esther Kahn divided critics upon its release, but has since rightfully emerged as an auteurist cause célèbre for the way that it pinpoints the mysterious, alchemical combination of personality, ambition, and often painful lived experience that goes into crafting a performance.

This screening is part of our free weekly double features this summer to celebrate Film at Lincoln Center’s 50th anniversary.

  • Registration for a single ticket per person is subject to availability.
  • If you register for more than one ticket, only one registration will be honored.
  • If you register online, you must arrive at least 20 minutes prior to showtime to claim your seat, at which point tickets may be forfeited in the event of a standby line.
  • Online registrants should skip the box office by presenting your Print-at-Home ticket (via print-out or on your mobile device) to the theater usher.
  • Please note: walk-ups will still be accepted; tickets to be distributed on a space-available basis.

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