The free invitation-only screening was hosted by the classic film website The Black Maria. (2020 Update: The Black Maria website no longer exists, and I have removed the non-working links.)
Black Maria's Jill Blake, Carley Johnson, and Wade Sheeler were on hand to greet guests and share the news that they hope this inaugural screening will be the first of several around the country in the months to come.
As explained on the website, "each screening promises a film with special significance to Black Maria staff, as well as featuring food, drink, music, local artists, writers and more!" The next Black Maria screening will be later this year in Atlanta.
Classic film fans from around the country had donated to help make the evening's festivities possible, and it was a class affair all the way, starting with free popcorn and sodas for all and ending with a reception on the theater patio featuring food, drink, and terrific music from swing violinist Elana James and her combo.
Jean Harlow expert Darrell Rooney, co-author of HARLOW IN HOLLYWOOD, introduced the movie with a brief talk. I had seen him speak at UCLA in 2011, and it was great to see him again.LIBELED LADY is one of my all-time favorite comedies, which I reviewed when I saw it at UCLA in 2012. It is never too soon to see it again, particularly in the company of such an appreciative audience! The entire cast, which includes Harlow, William Powell, and Spencer Tracy, is wonderful, but on this viewing I was particularly struck by just how amazing Myrna Loy is, wearing fabulous gowns designed by Dolly Tree.
Matt Patterson was present representing the Warner Archive, handing out free DVDs to the guests, and Turner Classic Movies also helped sponsor the event, providing items for the fantastic gift baskets which were raffled off at the close of the evening. It's always great having the chance to catch up with fellow classic film bloggers. I enjoyed seeing many old friends as well as renewing my acquaintance with Emily of The Vintage Cameo and finally meeting Kim of I See a Dark Theater in person for the first time. Everyone was having such a great time that the theater finally had to kick us out so that the crowd could file in for the Friday night midnight movie!
Many thanks to everyone at the Black Maria, as well as their donors, for a marvelous evening enjoying film and friendship!
2020 Update: LIBELED LADY is now available on Blu-ray from the Warner Archive. My review of the Blu-ray is here.
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