The summer movie season is fun, but everyone gets tired of explosions and superstars sooner or later. When that happens, there are plenty of great retro screenings in Austin. Many are part of ongoing local screening series, and some are even free.
The Daily Texan has put together a short list of screenings this week that are worth checking out.
"Citizen Kane" and "The Third Man"
When: Monday 6/23-Tuesday 6/24, Double features begin at 7:00
Where: The Paramount Theater
Cost: $12.00
“Citizen Kane” is often cited as the best film ever made, and cemented Orson Welles’ spot in the pantheon of film legends. As part of its Summer Film Series, the Paramount will be screening “Kane” and “The Third Man,” another of his most celebrated films and a touchstone of the film noir genre. As a bonus, sister theater the Stateside will be screening another double feature of Welles classics, “Touch of Evil” and “Macbeth” at 7:15 Monday and Tuesday night.
"Wayne’s World Quote-Along"
When: Tuesday 6/24-Thursday 6/26
Where: see Drafthouse.com for showtimes and locations
Cost: $12.00
“Wayne’s World” is the exception to the rule when it comes to films inspired by “Saturday Night Live” sketches, still totally hilarious and surprisingly sharp 22 years after release. Attendees to the Drafthouse’s Quote-Along will receive a Wayne’s World hat and film-related props, but the joy of singing along to “Bohemian Rhapsody” with a crowd of Wayne and Garth enthusiasts is free.
"The Road Warrior"
When: Wednesday, 6/25-Thursday 6/26, 9:00 PM
Where: Blue Starlite Drive-In
Cost: $15 per car
There’s nothing quite as fun as watching cheesy post-apocalyptic flicks at a drive-in in the middle of the summer, and “The Road Warrior” is one of the stone-cold classics of the genre. Mad Max is the role that made a star out of Mel Gibson, and “The Road Warrior” has some of the best stunts ever put on film. The film screens alongside “Dead End Drive-In,” a fittingly titled dystopian sci-fi shocker. Visit bluestarlitedrivein.com for tickets.
"Monty Python and the Holy Grail"
When: Thursday, 6/26 – 8:30
Where: Republic Square Park
Cost: Free
Of all the great films screening in Austin every week, some of the best ones are completely free. This is the case with comedy classic “Monty Python and the Holy Grail,” presented by the Austin Parks Foundation and the Alamo Drafthouse as part of their Movies in the Park series. Viewers are encouraged to bring picnics – coconuts for making galloping noises optional.
"Breakfast at Tiffany’s"
When: The Paramount Theater
Where: Sunday 6/29, 2:00 and 6:00 PM
Cost: $12.00
Audrey Hepburn’s posters have been in many a UT dorm room, but nothing can compare to seeing the actress in her most iconic role, Holly Golightly. Adapted from Truman Capote’s novel, “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” is one of the great Hollywood romances, setting hearts aflutter for over 50 years. For an extra $13, attendees can get the full Golightly experience with a martinis and manicures combo.
