Oscar-winning classics, free theater treats
The Waupaca Area Public Library has announced the roster of films in its Winter/Spring 2016 First Thursday Film Series.
All movie programs will begin at 1:30 p.m. in the lower level of the library and are free and open to the public.
Dr. Jack Rhodes will provide a brief overview of each film before the screening. Free popcorn, sodas and theater treats will be provided.
The schedule is as follows:
Jan. 7: “The Black Swan” (1942) stars Maureen O’Hara and Tyrone Power in a Technicolor adventure of pirates and marauders in the Caribbean of the 17th century. Award-winning color cinematography enriches this romantic swashbuckler, selected by Rhodes and the library in memory of Maureen O’Hara’s long film career. Also in the cast are George Sanders, Thomas Mitchell and Laird Cregar as the real-life buccaneer Sir Henry Morgan.
Feb. 4: “Rear Window” (1954) stars James Stewart and Grace Kelly in a classic thriller from director Alfred Hitchcock, based on a famous short story by Cornell Woolrich. Also in the cast are Thelma Ritter, Raymond Burr, Wendell Corey and Judith Evelyn. This movie will be the lead picture in the February Every Thursday Series that will highlight Hollywood classics derived from short stories. Watch the Waupaca County Post for more information about the February series.
March 3: “A Thousand Clowns” (1965) is a madcap comedy with bittersweet overtones starring Jason Robards and Barbara Harris, based on a popular play of the era by Herb Gardner. When a charming loafer quits his job in order to enjoy his lighthearted lifestyle, humorous complications ensue. Martin Balsam won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor in this whimsical tale of responsibility versus escapism. Also featured are Barry Gordon, Gene Saks and William Daniels.
April 7: “Chariots of Fire” (1981) won the Academy Award for Best Picture in the year of its release. Based upon actual incidents track events at an Olympics competition, the film features solid performances from Ben Cross, Ian Charleson and Ian Holm, as well as an Oscar-winning musical score by Vangelis.
May 5: “The Desert Fox” (1951) boasts a star turn by British actor James Mason as Rommel, the German general in charge of Hitler’s North Africa Korps. Based on the biographical memoir by Brigadier Desmond Young, the movie follows the fate of General Rommel as he begins to lose faith in the leadership and strategies of Adolf Hitler. Jessica Tandy, Sir Cedric Hardwicke and Luther Adler head a strong supporting cast. This movie will be shown, as is customary each May, in honor of all veterans.
For more information, call the library at 715-258-4414.