Rice, Schimel at Furman Film Series Thursday

A unique blend of local officials and movie experts will be on hand to discuss ways modern technology affects and defines daily relationships at a preview of the film Disconnect, part of the Great Neck Arts Center's Furman Film Series.

The plot of the movie revolves around a group of strangers, neighbors, and colleagues who's stories collide as they struggle to connect in today’s wired world.

Nassau County District Attorney Kathleen Rice and state Assemblywoman Michelle Schimel, D-Great Neck, will join Aviad Bernstein, a performer in the film, to discuss the subject matter of the thriller which is expected to resonate with adults and teens. 

“None of us are untouched by or immune to the potential dangers of being online, whether as a voyeur or a victim," said Aviva Miller, who selected the film for the Furman Film Series preview as a catalyst for heightened awareness and action in regard to cyber crimes.

The movie, shot with eavesdropped naturalism, is the first fiction feature from Henry-Alex Rubin, director of the Oscar nominated Murderball.

The cast includes Jason Bateman, star of Up in the Air; Alexander Skarsgard featured in True Blood; Paula Patton, who appeared in Mission Impossible, Michael Nyqvist; from The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo and Jonah Bobo, of Crazy, Stupid Love.

The discussion should prove fascinating, according to Regina Gil, the arts center's executive director.

“I urge people to attend the film preview and participate in the discussion to follow,” said Gill in a release.

The film begins at 7 p.m. Doors open for film series subscribers at 6:30 p.m. and other ticket holders at 6:45 p.m.

For ticket information, call The Great Neck Arts Center at 829-2570 or visit their website.