Amherst Native Annie Baker’s New Film “Janet Planet” Opens at Amherst Cinema on June 27

Source: Amherst Cinema

Amherst Cinema announces the release of JANET PLANET, a film by Pulitzer-Prize winning playwright and Amherst native Annie Baker. Opening on Thursday, June 27, the film is one of the cinema’s most anticipated movies this summer.

Renowned for her evocative storytelling in theatre, Baker transitions to the silver screen with JANET PLANET. Her directorial debut captures a child’s experience of time passing, and the ineffability of a daughter falling out of love with her mother.

JANET PLANET was shot entirely in Western Massachusetts and features significant contributions from area communities—such as Double Edge Theatre in Ashfield—and with many residents participating as cast and crew (including a few of Amherst Cinema’s very own staff!). 

“For months, we’ve fielded calls from so many folks eager to share their stories and ready for their big screen debut. That day has finally come,” said Amherst Cinema Executive Director Yasmin Chin Eisenhauer. “JANET PLANET has arrived with critical acclaim and lots of buzz. We’re excited to celebrate with neighborhood friends and filmgoers and look forward to a successful run at the Cinema.”

FILM SYNOPSIS: Set in rural Western Massachusetts, JANET PLANET transports viewers to the summer of 1991, where 11-year-old Lacy (Zoe Ziegler) spends her days at home, enthralled by her own imagination and the attention of her mother, Janet (Julianne Nicholson). As the months pass, three visitors enter their orbit, all captivated by Janet and her spellbinding nature. In her solitary moments, Lacy inhabits an inner world so extraordinarily detailed that it begins to seep into the outside world.

Director: Annie Baker. 2024. 113 minutes. PG-13.

Tickets are now available online and at the Box Office. For more information, visit: www.amherstcinema.org/films-and-events/janet-planet