Classics Films in Movie Theaters
Like most films, the classics are best viewed as they were intended: on the big screen.
It’s not just the elitist opinion of film snobs; there is a logic to the preference. After all, filmmakers of yesteryear had no idea that films would ever be presented other than by projection on a large screen in a movie theater. With that in mind, every shot was composed to fit the existing format.
As screens grew in scale over the years to suit Cinemascope and other wide screen formats, composition became more elaborate, specifically designed for the final presentation.
Today, filmmakers make allowances in framing to suit multiple formats knowing that the product will eventually end up on television through DVDs and other media.
Although many people have gotten use to the square look of a TV screen, full screen by its nature eliminates part of the picture so carefully constructed. So, naturally, a film can only realize its full value by being projected on screen. Seeing a classic film any other way is truly a compromise.
Surprisingly, there are a great number of venues that cater to the classic film fan, including multiplexes.
In addition, there are numerous film societies that organize public screenings in parks and other outdoor locations. A simple Internet search will yield a wealth of options from which to choose.
The links presented here represent the more prominent possibilities available in the Los Angeles area.
“Cinema Paradiso”, 1988
FEATURED THEATRE THIS MONTH: THE EGYPTIAN
The Egyptian Theatre's Giant Screen will be used to its full potential this month with the American Cinematheque's Widescreen Wednesdays. This means that all month long the film society will be presenting films in Cinemascope, VistaVision or 70MM every mid-week day. To quote the presenters, “While a film on the big screen is perfection for movie lovers, a film on the extra big screen is a must-see, visually redefining experience”. I really couldn’t have said it any better. The lineup includes two James Dean films, “Rebel Without A Cause” and “East of Eden”, and one of the most high spirited musicals of all time, “Oklahoma!”. Clink on this link to see the “Rebel Without A Cause” Trailer. Click on this link for the “East of Eden” Trailer . And click here to Buy Tickets. The Egyptian Theatre is located on Hollywood Blvd. just East of Highland in Hollywood.
