Entertainment : In Depth: Argo brings to life part of the Iranian Hostage Crisis

The R-rated “Argo” plays the Palace Friday, December 7 through Thursday, December 13 at 7 pm every night, and Monday, December 10 at 2 pm.

“Argo” is based on the true story of the 1979 Iran Hostage Crisis, and the successful ruse invented by a CIA agent (Ben Affleck), a Hollywood make-up artist (John Goodman), and a movie producer (Alan Arkin) to rescue six American hostages trapped in the Canadian Embassy. The idea – create a fake sci fi film project named “Argo,” complete with storyboards, ads, and the need for a desert location, and use that fabrication to liberate the hostages.

“Argo” the real movie is already being hailed as an Oscar contender. The immensely talented Ben Affleck directs and stars, and I believe you’ll find this film both dramatic and funny. Unfortunately, “Argo” received an R rating due to language, which I’m told is a complete Hollywood invention. It would have been nice for local history classes to benefit from this experience.

Yes, the elaborate movie scheme actually did happen, and the Palace Theatre is privileged to host Ms. Kathryn Koob, former Iranian hostage, on Monday, December 10, to tell you more about it.

Kathryn grew up near Jesup, Iowa—and though she has traveled the world and lived in several different countries, she claims there is no better place than Iowa to enjoy retirement. She currently enjoys life in Waverly, Iowa.

Kate, as many know her, holds a B.A. in Speech/Drama and Religion from Wartburg College, and an M.A. in Theatre from the University of Denver. She also has an M.A.R. (Master of Arts in Religion), an academic degree, from Lutheran Theological Seminary, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. She was awarded the Doctor of Humane Letters (honoris causis) from Gwynedd Mercy College in 1981, and Uppsala College in 1983.

Kathryn spent over twenty-seven years in the diplomatic service of the United States working in the area of cultural and education exchange. In addition she also served as a public affairs officer and press attaché, and was a speechwriter for several ambassadors. She is likely most remembered during her Foreign Service career for the 444 days she spent as a hostage in the American Embassy in Tehran. She authored a book recounting her experience as an Iranian hostage titled “Guest of the Revolution.”

From 1999 to 2008 she was an adjunct/visiting professor at Wartburg College teaching courses in Oral Communication, Intercultural Communication, (a General Multi-Cultural Studies course) in addition to courses in reconciliation, “Image of God in religion and culture” and theatre.

She continues to travel, and is looking forward to a 90 snowbird cruise to the Far East in January.

Weather permitting, Kathryn will be on hand following the Monday matinee and at 6:45 p.m. before the 7 p.m. show to discuss her experience, make comparisons to the movie, and take questions. We hope you’ll join us for this unique opportunity.

FOR THE KIDS – ARTHUR CHRISTMAS

“Arthur Christmas,” the tale of Santa’s youngest son, came out last holiday season, but did not make the Palace schedule. We’re pleased to show it this year on Saturday, December 8 at 2 p.m.

This PG-rated animated movie answers the perennial question, how does Santa deliver all those presents in just 24 hours?

If, like me, you still have Christmas shopping to conquer, take advantage of our FREE matinee on Saturday afternoon. Drop the kids at the theatre and check out the great deals and fantastic local merchandise at your favorite Vinton stores.

If you’re wrapped and ready to go, come celebrate your organizational and planning skills by enjoying quality holiday entertainment on the big screen with your whole family.

As admission is FREE, seats may not be reserved in advance, but we’ll run some holiday cartoon favorites from 1 – 2 pm, so line up early to get your seats! Only main floor seating will be available for this show.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM THE PALACE!