See you at the movies all summer long at outdoor, historic settings

| June 28, 2018 | 0 Comments

ENJOY a summer evening on the Colorado Street Bridge.

Movies are in our DNA. Los Angeles would not be what it is today physically, economically or philosophically had it not been for the advent of motion pictures and the people who made them who put down roots here over a century ago. Many of the physical plants associated with the industry have been identified as historic resources. One, the Charlie Chaplin Studios (now the Jim Henson Company Lot) is HCM #58 and is celebrating its 100th anniversary.

Just as the Los Angeles Conservancy wraps up another year of its very successful “Last Remaining Seats,” showcasing classic films in historic theaters, a new crop of venues aims to enhance the tradition through new technology, resulting in a “movies-without-walls” experience.  Movies have been shown outdoors for awhile now, but this year’s offerings bring attention to a variety of historic sites in our area in a new way.

In the garden: Historic Descanso Gardens plans a showing of Disney’s “Coco” on Family Movie Night Fri., Aug. 3 for members at the Family Plus level and higher.

At the ranch: The Paramount Ranch will be the site of the Silent Society’s screening of “Show People,” starring Marion Davies and William Haines, Sun., July 15 at 8 p.m. “Flesh and the Devil,” starring Greta Garbo and John Gilbert, will be screened Sun., August 19 at 7:30 p.m.

At the cemetery:  The historic Hollywood Cemetery, where luminaries of the industry are interred, is now known as Hollywood Forever. Cinespia has partnered with the location since 2002, and this year offers “Thelma & Louise” Tues., July 3 and “Footloose” Wed., July 4, both screenings beginning at 9 p.m. In addition to showcasing the best of cinema, Cinespia cemetery screenings feature pre-show DJs, themed photo booths, a picnic at a gorgeous Hollywood landmark, and even occasional visits by stars, directors and filmmakers.

On the roof: Columbia Square hosts Rooftop Cinema Club in an outdoor space at Neuehouse. “We are hugely excited to be teaming up with this incredible venue. As the former CBS studios, this building formed a part of Hollywood history, and we are excited to create more history at our new home in the future,” Rooftop Cinema Club said on its move to this new venue. Visit timeout.com for a list of dates and movies being screened.

At Pasadena’s finest Craftsman: Meet the scholars in residence at the Gamble House before the screening of “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes.”  Marilyn Monroe meets Greene and Greene. Who could ask for more?

One more way to enjoy a summer evening: Pasadena Heritage’s Bridge Party. Set in a historic venue Sat., July 14 from 6 to 11:30 p.m. If you have never attended this amazing event on the Colorado Street Bridge, this should be the year. You can stroll its entire length without dodging cars, have dinner, dance, and admire the views and architecture of the Arroyo.

See you at the movies this summer.

By Christy McAvoy

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Category: Entertainment

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