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 the grandeur of Cinemascope and other wide screen formats, composition became even more elaborate and 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 repeated broadcast, 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
THE AERO THEATRE: Located in Santa Monica, the Aero is LA’s Westside arm of the American Cinematheque. All this February the Aero is presenting some fantastic retrospectives and unique screenings with some special in person guests. Included in this month’s lineup is a couple of Arthur Hiller double features, the Lord of the Rings trilogy, a Jennifer Jones tribute, an Elia Kazan retrospective, a special Valentine’s day double feature, and Bob Newhart in person! For more information on the scheduled screenings use the Aero Theatre’s website link at the right.
