(PITTSFIELD, Mass.) – The critically acclaimed documentary film, PINA, about the legendary choreographer Pina Bausch, by Oscar-nominated director Wim Wenders, screens on Thursday, February 2, 2012, at the Beacon Cinema, in an event presented by the Berkshire International Film Festival (BIFF)’s REEL FRIENDS Film Society. Ella Baff, executive and artistic director of Jacob’s Pillow, will talk about the life of Pina Bausch and lead a discussion and Q&A immediately following the screening.

German master Wim Wenders (Wings of Desire, Buena Vista Social Club) shoots in 3D to capture the brilliantly inventive dance world of the late Pina Bausch. Wenders had conceived with Bausch a dance film like none seen before, one that would take the fullest advantage yet of new 3D technology to put the viewer deep inside Bausch’s playful, thrillingly unpredictable pieces.

After her untimely death in 2009, Wenders continued with the project, turning it into the most exciting tribute he could imagine. Sensual and visually stunning, PINA uses 3D to remarkable effect, taking the audience into Bausch’s work in her imaginative sets (a gliding monorail, a bare stage covered with chairs, a towering man-made waterfall) and powerfully rendering the beauty and sheer physicality of the dances and dancers of her Tanztheater Wuppertal ensemble.

This special event kicks off at 6:30 p.m. with a wine and cheese reception upstairs at the Beacon followed by a private BIFF REEL Friends screening of PINA at 7:30 and the Q&A with Ella Baff. Tickets are $20 and may be purchased through our office at 413-528-8030.

BIFF 2012 will be held May 31-June 3 in Great Barrington and Pittsfield.