Austin Celebrates 51st Summer Classic Film Series

News Summary

The Paramount Theatre in Austin kicks off its 51st Summer Classic Film Series on May 22, 2023, featuring iconic films like ‘Casablanca’ and ‘Breathless.’ This event will showcase over 90 classic films throughout the summer, inviting families and film lovers to enjoy diverse screenings and special programming while celebrating the theater’s significance in the community.

Austin is set to celebrate its rich cinematic history as the Paramount Theatre’s Summer Classic Film Series kicks off its 51st season beginning in late May 2023. This beloved event will showcase a variety of classic films and special programming, providing an engaging experience for both film enthusiasts and the local community.

What Happened

The Summer Classic Film Series will commence with an exciting opening night on May 22, featuring two iconic films: “Casablanca” and “Breathless” at 7 p.m. The following days boast a variety of events, including a special screening of “Jaws” on May 24 at 3 p.m. This screening is particularly notable as it marks the film’s 50th anniversary. Later that day, attendees can look forward to five double features selected by acclaimed filmmaker Robert Rodriguez, showcasing titles such as “After Hours” and “Into the Night” starting at 7 p.m.

On May 25, the theater will screen “Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back” at 3 p.m. and “There Will Be Blood” at 7 p.m. The opening week will culminate on May 28 with a double feature of “Best in Show” and “Waiting for Guffman” at 7 p.m. Overall, the series will feature over 90 films throughout the summer, including both classic cult favorites and recent releases.

Who Is Affected

The Summer Classic Film Series is expected to attract a diverse audience, including local residents, families, and film aficionados. Adults will pay a regular admission price of $15, while tickets for children under 12 will cost $9. Film Fan Club members can purchase tickets at a reduced price of $11. Additionally, the series will offer Flix-Tix, which includes 10 tickets valid for the entire summer for $90 (or $75 for members), making it accessible for individuals looking to enjoy multiple screenings.

Official Response

The Summer Classic Film Series has historical significance; it began in 1975 as a means to revitalize the Paramount Theatre and attract audiences during a time of declining business. This initiative played a pivotal role in preserving the theater from possible demolition. The program has evolved into a cherished tradition among the Austin community, drawing crowds year after year.

Impact

With its roots deeply embedded in the local cultural landscape, the Summer Classic Film Series serves as more than just a film festival; it is a celebration of community and artistic expression. Special events planned during the series will spotlight local filmmakers and organizations, with groups such as Hyperreal Film Club and Austin Film Festival participating in the festivities. The camaraderie fostered by this event enhances the city’s cultural fabric and invites collaboration among creatives.

What’s Next

As the series approaches, the comprehensive film schedule will be released later this spring, providing additional details on the hundreds of screenings to enjoy throughout the summer months. The anticipation is building as Austinites prepare to gather, revel in film history, and strengthen their community bonds at the iconic Paramount Theatre.

The Summer Classic Film Series is not merely an entertainment option; it represents Austin’s collective commitment to preserving its cultural legacy and honoring the art of film.

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Additional Resources

• Spectrum Local News: Casablanca and Jaws to Premiere
• Wikipedia: Paramount Theatre
• Austin Film Festival: AFF Digital Series
• Google Search: Summer Classic Film Series
• CBS Austin: TBT Paramount Theatre’s Classic Series
• Google Scholar: Summer Classic Film Series
• Austin Chronicle: To The Front Film Series
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Austin Film Festival
• KVUE: Paramount Theatre Summer Celebration
• Google News: Paramount Theatre Summer Classic Film Series