May 20th, 2025 – Bedford Playhouse welcomed film lovers and history buffs alike for a remarkable evening honoring one of Hollywood’s most influential directors—George Stevens. The event featured a special one-night-only screening of George Stevens: A Filmmaker’s Journey, the beautifully restored documentary chronicling the extraordinary life and career of the man behind timeless classics like Shane, Giant, The Diary of Anne Frank, Swing Time, and A Place in the Sun.
Following the screening, the audience was treated to an unforgettable live conversation with the documentary’s director, George Stevens Jr.—a renowned filmmaker in his own right, founder of the American Film Institute, and creator of the Kennedy Center Honors. Joining him on stage was celebrated film critic Janet Maslin, who led a thoughtful and intimate discussion reflecting on the legacy of Stevens Sr., the evolution of American cinema, and the powerful father-son connection that shaped the film.
Guests had the opportunity to purchase signed copies of Stevens Jr.’s acclaimed memoir, My Place in the Sun, a deeply personal narrative of growing up in the golden age of Hollywood and forging a path of creative excellence.
This special evening wasn’t just a film screening—it was a rare glimpse into the history of cinema, guided by those who have lived it, preserved it, and continued to shape it for generations to come.