Curated from the best of classic Hollywood from the 1930s to 1960s, you screen and discuss films that represent multiple genres, including film noir, thrillers, musicals, comedies, Westerns, and war movies. Each genre has its own unique charm and has contributed significantly to Hollywood’s legacy. Discuss each film’s rich tapestry of storytelling and cinematic artistry. Your active participation is invited in this entertaining monthly gathering!
Sept. 17: Sabrina (1954) Romantic comedy. Starring Humphrey Bogart, Audrey Hepburn and William Holden. Directed by Billy Wilder. Two very different brothers compete for the attention of their chauffer’s daughter, an awkward girl who returns from Paris as a graceful, captivating woman. Hepburn sparkles. The New York Times called it “the most delightful comedy-romance in years.” It remains a timeless classic.
Oct. 15: White Heat (1949) Crime. Starring James Cagney and Virginia Mayo. Directed by Raoul Walsh. Cagney is astonishing as a psychotic gangster with a serious mother complex in one of his most iconic roles. Roger Ebert described it as “a ruthless tale, ruthlessly told.”
Nov. 19: Touch of Evil (1958) Film noir. Starring Orson Wells, Charlton Heston and Marlene Dietrich. Directed by Wells. Police corruption, drugs and murder play out in a Mexican border town. Salon.com asserted it “may be the sleaziest good movie ever made.”
Dec. 10 (please note – second Weds.): Miracle on 34th Street (1947) Comedy. Starring Maureen O’Hara, Edmund Gwynn and Natalie Wood. Directed by George Seaton. Beloved Christmas classic. Kris Kringle comes to New York City at Christmas and teaches a single mother and her precocious daughter about faith and joy. Three Oscars including Gwynn (Kris) for best supporting actor.
