Classic Tuesdays
This series gives you a chance to experience classic film at its best – including behind-the-scenes stories of the legendary films, stars and creatives who left their mark on Hollywood history.
Mr. Blandings Builds His Dream House with Special Guest Illeana Douglas
- Sun, Apr 27
Director: H. C. Potter Run Time: 94 min. Rating: Not Rated Release Year: 1948
Starring: Cary Grant, Melvyn Douglas, Myrna Loy, Reginald Denny, Sharyn Moffett
New York adman Jim Blandings is ready to say goodbye to his cramped city apartment and build from the ground up a Connecticut home with room enough for his growing family and dreams. All it will cost him is his time and money ... and perhaps his job, marriage, happiness and what's left of his sanity. Goodbye, Manhattan. Hello, comedy. Following the film, renowned actress and author Illeana Douglas will discuss her book “Connecticut in the Movies: From Dream Houses to Dark Suburbia” and take questions from the audience. A copy of the book is included with each ticket.
Inherit the Wind
- Tue, Apr 29
Director: Stanley Kramer Run Time: 128 min. Rating: Not Rated Release Year: 1960
Starring: Dick York, Donna Anderson, Fredric March, Gene Kelly, Spencer Tracy
Two-time Best Actor Oscar winners Spencer Tracy and Fredric March face off in this gripping courtroom drama about one of the most famous trials of the 20th century. When a teacher is put on trial for teaching evolution, attorney Henry Drummond (Tracy) and fundamentalist leader Matthew Harrison Brady (March) engage in a fierce battle of opposing beliefs. As the town watches, sparks fly in this powerful clash over science, faith, and freedom.
Bad Day at Black Rock
- Tue, May 27
Director: John Sturges Run Time: 81 min. Rating: Not Rated Release Year: 1955
Starring: Dean Jagger, Lee Marvin, Robert Ryan, Spencer Tracy, Walter Brennan
One-armed stranger John J. Macreedy (Spencer Tracy) arrives in a small town, where the locals make it clear he's not welcome. Despite threats and violence, the World War II veteran keeps his calm as he unravels the town's dark secret. Directed by John Sturges, the film builds tension while revealing Macreedy’s mission and his unyielding toughness.
A Night at the Opera
- Tue, Jun 24
Director: Sam Wood Run Time: 96 min. Rating: Not Rated Release Year: 1935
Starring: Allan Jones, Chico Marx, Groucho Marx, Harpo Marx, Kitty Carlisle
In this grand comedy, Groucho, Chico, and Harpo Marx disrupt opera star Lasparri’s plans while helping two young hopefuls get their big break. Packed with gags, one-liners, and musical riffs, they stow away on a ship, outsmart city hall, and wreak havoc to save the opera. This may just be the best Marx Brothers movie ever.
Lost in America
- Tue, Jul 29
Director: Albert Brooks Run Time: 91 min. Rating: R Release Year: 1985
Starring: Albert Brooks, Garry Marshall, Julie Hagerty, Maggie Roswell, Michael Greene
Stalled in his company's pecking order, ad man David Howard (Albert Brooks) failed to land the Senior VP slot he wanted. He quits, convinces wife Linda (Julie Hagerty) to do the same, sells their house and stocks and buys a Winnebago to roam the USA. Though they feel they're easy riders, they're actually Born to Be Mild. With their $145,000 nest egg tucked reassuringly within reach, they make their first stop: Las Vegas. Goodbye, nest egg. Greetings, hilarity. Director/co-writer Brooks memorably bonds with Hagerty as a couple spinning along on wheels of misfortune. Their comic plight speaks to anyone who's ever dreamed of chucking it all.