The SHSU Department of Fine Arts and Mass Communication and Assistant Professor of Film Grant Wiedenfeld are putting on the Old Town classic movie screenings series in downtown Huntsville starting on Sept. 29 at 6 p.m. and will continue with viewings in October and November.
The first movie featured in the series will be the 1938 film “Port of Shadows”. The film, a French picture directed by Marcel Carné, follows an army deserter falling for a runaway teen with a mysterious and treacherous past. This classic narrative of hasty love, obsession, betrayal and murder presents students and members of the community a unique look at foreign cinema here at home.
This film is not only a great source of entertainment, but also an enjoyable opportunity for both film majors and the general public to learn about the intricacies of French cinema.
After the movie ends, Professor Wiedenfeld will lead a discussion with the audience about the film, sharing his knowledge and fielding questions.
The second instalment of the series at Old Town, on Oct. 18 at 6 p.m., is the movie “Bicycle Thieves”. Another foreign film, this time set in Italy, it’s a heart-breaking story of a poverty-stricken father on a search for his stolen bike set against the backdrop of devastation in post-World War-II Europe.
“Love and Basketball” is the last film that Bearkats will get a chance to see on the silver screen at the Old Town Theatre, on Nov. 29 at 6 p.m. The final film explores the strains that love can face when circumstances and priorities change whilst in college. The specific topic matter makes the film one every student can relate to.
The Old Town Theatre itself was remodeled in 2001 before reopening to the public in hopes of creating a quality experience for families and a venue for education in the arts. The theatre offers opportunities year-round to get involved in the arts of Huntsville.
Tradition is something that’s important not only to SHSU, but also to the town of Huntsville. The Old Town Theatre has been a part of this historic town for years, and the screenings offer a remarkably similar atmosphere to what would have been present when these movies were first released.
The screenings will be open to the public and free, the SHSU Film Society will also be hosting a fundraiser at the event with concessions.