The annual Searching the Psyche Through Cinema series returns in January, February, and March with psychological studies of films helmed by female directors. Leading off: 2017’s acclaimed Lady Bird (R), the coming-of-age story of a California high school senior (Saoirse Ronan) and her turbulent relationship with her loving, deeply opinionated, and strong-willed mother (Laurie Metcalf). Directed by Greta Gerwig, it’s a rare big-screen look at teenage life that puts as much weight on the sad, dark, and difficult moments as the raucous and euphoric times.

A post-screening discussion is led by psychoanalyst Bonnie Buchele and Abby Olcese, vice president of the Kansas City Film Critics Circle.

Presented in partnership with the Greater Kansas City and Topeka Psychoanalytic Center.