Wild for Wilder

Why God, why? Why, knowing full well that I am a financially-unsound college student stranded in the westernmost of these United States, do you put on fantastical film festivals such as these way out in the Big Apple? Did I do something to deserve this?

Yes, New York's Film Forum is hosting a special double-event this summer, screening the films of Ernst Lubitsch and of Billy Wilder in two separate, incredible affairs. This may be the only time in my life I've wanted to be just another face in the hustle and bustle of NYC. I've always joked about selling my possessions to get enough cash for something extravagant and spontaneous like this - but I truly do wonder what I could pawn to afford a ticket out there...?

If you as a poster/reader happen to screen a piece of classic cinema in an authentic theater setting, let me know where, when, and what you saw, and I'll be sure to post it here. I've had a few e-mails regarding our favorite genre of movies on the big screen, but to the best of my knowledge, there is no definitive search engine, directory, or website that lists such events...and I, for one, am exasperated by continually finding out about such events after they've already occurred. Chicago, New York and L.A. can't be the only cities that host classic movies - they just can't!

Come on now, people, this woman is not joking when she says she needs to see Ball of Fire on the big screen! Sugarpuss O'Shea working her innuendo on Professor Potts in all her 35mm glory? I am SO IN!

Brilliant on the Big Screen

I have just found the most incredible website ever. Hollywood Blvd, a unique cinema/restaurant establishment just outside of Chicago, features a silver-screen showing every month, complete with any of the original cast members they can round up. This month's screening? Gone With the Wind, resplendently shown in all of its cinematic glory, will also be attended by the actress who played little Bonnie Blue Butler, Scar & Rhett's pride and joy, who meets her fate with...well, in case you haven't seen the film, I'll save the spoilers. (Then again, if you haven't seen Gone With the Wind...what are you doing on this site in the first place?!) Check out their Now Playing guide to see what else they have in store for the spring.
Great...Hollywood Blvd is just one more thing that makes me regret moving away from home; how did I not know about this years ago? Oh well, you Chicagoans take advantage of this opportunity - just know that it's your responsibility to let me watch these films vicariously through your attendance!

In an extension of those thoughts, I've been searching with much futility for movie theatres that do show classic films on a regular basis - you know, Breakfast at Tiffany's, Ben-Hur, The Wizard of Oz. Where are all of these fabulous films being shown in darkened movie houses, and why can't I find them? If there are any near where you live, posting information here might be of a great help to others (or give me a jumpstart on planning my summer vacation, hmmm....). And remember, we're not constrained to the U.S. either - I'll take my classic cinema where I can get it.