'The Lovers and the Despot'

On Fri., Oct. 14 and Sat., Oct. 15, in its screening room at 304 E. Broad St., the Bijou Film Center will present a first-run documentary/thriller that's getting a lot of notice since its release last month -- “The Lovers and the Despot.”

Admission: $9. No advance tickets.

Friday show times: 7 p.m. and 9:15 p.m.

Saturday show times: 4:15 p.m., 7 p.m. and 9:15 p.m.

“The Lovers and the Despot” (2016): Color. 98 minutes. Directed by Robert Cannan and Ross Adam.

Note: In 1978 North Korean dictator Kim Jong-il acted upon his frustration with his country's movie industry, or lack thereof. Ever the film buff, Kim kidnapped a renown director and a beloved actress who were South Korean celebrities. The despot declared them to be his personal filmmakers. The pair was forced to make movies, all the while planning their escape.

No, this isn't the plot of an off-the-wall romp – a fantasy just for laughs. It's the documentary about Shin Sang-ok and his wife, Choi Eun-hee that wowed viewers at the 2016 Sundance Film Festival.

“This real-life romantic thriller/escape saga is essential stranger-than-fiction viewing.” – Justin Change, Variety.

The trailer is here.

Beer, wine and soft drinks will be for sale.