The Mondavi Center announced that Paul Haggis’ In the Valley of Elah will open the spring quarter’s Focus on Film. (Elah takes the place of the previously announced Costa-Gavras’ Z.)

After Elah, on March 30, the series continues with three films selected by Haggis in conjunction with his May 11 talk in the Mondavi Center’s Distinguished Speakers Series.

Haggis was the creative force behind Million Dollar Baby and Crash, the Academy Award winners for best picture in 2004 and 2005, respectively. Haggis won the Oscar for best original screenplay for Crash and was nominated for the Oscar for best adaptation for Million Dollar Baby.

“We asked him to share with us those films that most influenced the way he makes movies,” said Don Roth, the Mondavi Center’s executive director. “We think his choices make for great viewing and give insights into his filmmaking philosophy, which will make Haggis’ talk even more fascinating.”

The Focus on Film lineup:

March 30 — In the Valley of Elah (2007), directed by Paul Haggis. Rated R, 121 minutes.

April 13 — Rashomon (1950), directed by Akira Kurosawa. Japanese with English subtitles, not rated, 88 minutes.

April 27 — Breathless (1960), directed by Jean Luc Godard. French with English subtitles, not rated, 90 minutes.

May 18 — Dog Day Afternoon (1975), directed by Sidney Lumet. Rated R, 124 minutes.

All films start at 6:30 p.m. in the Studio Theatre. A reception follows each film. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students and children for single films; and $27 for three-film plans.

More information on the films: www.mondaviarts.org (click on “08-09 Events by Genre,” then “Film”).