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The Pacific Northwestern

As opposed to the arid deserts traditionally associated with the Western, the Cascadia bioregion evokes an altogether different influence through a land of falling waters, temperate rainforests, sublimely gothic peaks, and a shimmering richness beneath the soil. Great artists have treated the Western film, that most American of genres, as a psychological landscape to chart the treacherous passages and violence serving as the foundation of our nation’s soul; manifest destiny, law and order, the predatory farce of capitalism, and the…

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Martin Scorsese: Maestro of Cinema

Starting this February, join us weekly on Wednesdays for Martin Scorsese: Maestro of Cinema, 10 films spanning the brilliant career of one of the greatest filmmakers in cinema history. Presented by SIFF, Festa Italiana and Greg Olson Productions. Series curated by Martin Scorsese and Greg Olson, written by Greg Olson.

Recent reviews

Plays January 20, 2026 at SIFF Film Center as part of The Pacific Northwestern series | siff.net/cinema

Played January 18, 2026 at SIFF Cinema Uptown | siff.net/cinema

Played January 17-19, 2026 at SIFF Film Center | siff.net/cinema

Plays January 16-18, 2026 at SIFF Film Center | siff.net/cinema

Liked reviews

Seen as part of SIFF’s Pacific Northwestern series 

Well, this is another addition to what I like to call “classic American films that should be remade featuring polyamorous trans people”.  It’s basically Castration Movie before all of the societal evolution which led to Castration Movie.  Only with horses and racism.

Canyon Passage

Canyon Passage

1946
★★★★★ Liked

4K restoration as part of SIFF's Pacific Northwestern series. Absolutely ravishing, completely engrossing, and haunting. In my mind, at times a Shakespearean comedy in the coupling but also doesn't ignore the realities, at least they are portrayed in westerns, of The West. Incredible.

Happy to see a town of fellas who wear their pants as high up around the waist as I do

“SoyBEAn. SoooyBEAn.”

Wonderful 40’s western that feels very ahead of its time. Great cast of characters that are fully realized in such a short amount of time. Especially the main trio - great dynamic there. The beautiful Oregon scenery is an obvious feast. Eat up. 

It’s unfortunate though that my biggest takeaway will be the banger soundtrack. Ooool buttermilk sky…

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