During these rough economic times, we all know this familiar story: down-on-his luck theatrical composer with a shady past must step into the spotlight to star in his own production, only to be revealed as the son of a millionaire who was really just hiding from his old man because dad didn’t approve of the lowlifes in the entertainment community.  BUT HE LOVES THOSE LOWLIFES!  Happened twice in my neighborhood this week.

Times really don’t change, do they?  That was actually the (rough) plot of “Gold Diggers of 1933,” the first presentation in the 23rd annual Buffalo Film Seminar with University at Buffalo professors Bruce Jackson and Diane Christian.  Over the course of the next 16 weeks, cinematic aficianados and old-timey film lovers alike will gather at the Market Arcade Film and Arts Centre (659 Main St., Buffalo) to soak in the movie goodness of classics like Cocteau’s “La Belle et la Bete,” chew on the existential ennui of Marcel Camus’ “Black Orpheus” and revel in the naughtiness of Richard Loncraine’s “Richard III.”  Delightful!  Jackson and Christian will offer brief intros and lead group discussions after the show.

Tickets for the Buffalo Film Seminar are $9 for adults and $7 for students.  The show begins at 7 PM.  For a full schedule of films and more info, visit www.buffalofilmseminars.com.