Turner Classic Movies invites fans to join the Network in Hollywood in Spring 2010 for the first-ever TCM Classic Film Festival. This should be very cool!
Turner Classic Movies (TCM), the authority in classic film, will stage the network’s first film festival April 22nd through 25th, 2010, in the heart of Hollywood, CA. The Festival will be a landmark celebration of the history of Hollywood and its movies, presented in a way that only TCM can, with major events, celebrity appearances and screenings of classic movies. This is a brilliant idea a long time in the coming, and if anyone is to do it well, it’s the folks at TCM.
Of course, Robert Osborne, TCM’s primetime host, will be the official host of the festival. “Classic movies are something that link the past to the present and form a vital part of our culture,” Osborne said. “This new festival will give those who love movies a way to connect with each other. It is a first-of-its-kind chance for TCM fans to experience the network in-person, meet others with the same interests and immerse themselves in a wide array of classic films.”
Included in the scope of the festival will be a celebration of Hollywood and its history. In addition to screening classic films, scheduled events include newly restored masterpieces, silent classics and undiscovered gems. The festival aims to tell the story of Hollywood through films, guests and special events throughout the weekend. All screenings – more than 50 in all – will include special introductions to provide context for each film (this is a huge selling point for me). Specific details will be announced in the weeks and months and I can’t wait to find out just who the actors, actresses, directors, producers and other key figures will be to tell behind-the-scenes stories of many of Hollywood ’s greatest films.
And one of the greatest aspects of the planned festival will involve many historical venues in the heart of old of Hollywood, including screenings at Grauman’s Chinese Theatre and the Egyptian Theatre. The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, which has a longstanding role in movie history and was the site of the first Oscar ceremony, will be the official hotel for the festival as well as a key venue for festival pass holders. Festival passes will go on sale Wednesday, Nov. 18, at tcm.com/festival. Prices will range from $500 to $1,200 for four-day passes. If you ask me, I think tickets are going to sell out fast so don't wait a minute longer than you have to to nab yours.