In collaboration with the Cinémathèque suisse, the ECAL Cinema Department organises a masterclass by director Joe Dante, a leading figure in 1980's fantasy cinema.
Joe Dante, born in 1946, is a major American filmmaker trained at Roger Corman's New World Pictures. He made a name for himself with Piranha (1978), a film that blends satire, fantasy, and a tribute to B-movies.
He achieved international success with Gremlins (1984), produced by Steven Spielberg, which has become a classic of fantasy cinema. His extensive filmography includes The Howling (1981), Explorers (1985), Innerspace (1987), and Looney Tunes: Back in Action (2003), revealing a childlike imagination that remains critical of American society. With his blend of cinematic references and affection for outsiders, Joe Dante is a director capable of entertaining while questioning the world.
From March 21 to April 29, the Cinémathèque suisse is presenting a retrospective dedicated to Joe Dante at the Capitole cinema in Lausanne. The director will be in attendance on April 15 for a special evening featuring a screening of Gremlins.
Discussion moderated by Lionel Baier.
14.04.2026
6pm
Free entry
IKEA Auditorium
ECAL
Avenue du Temps 5
1020 Renens, Suisse
