The holidays are in full swing and many people have already experienced the height of the gift giving season. However, there are still plenty of days before the start of the New Year. So, if you still have a few tough-to-buy-for relatives on your list, or would like to reciprocate the generosity of an unexpected gift giver, or you simply didn’t get what you wanted this year, here are some terrific end of the year presents that will satisfy the classic film fan in your life.
Film Society Memberships: For those who like to watch the old classics on the big screen I recommend purchasing a membership to the American Cinematheque. Not only does this film society offer two locations for your classic movie viewing pleasure (Hollywood and Santa Monica), but from now until January 31, 2012 the Cinematheque is offering a special deal in celebration of its 30th anniversary. Purchase a membership at ANY level and get 30% off! That’s a savings at minimum of $16.50 up to $800. Now that’s a
bargain! Just use the picture of the Egyptian marque above as a link to the membership page, but be sure to mention the “30% off” membership deal when buying via PayPal, fax, or email. And check out the rest of the sight while you’re there. You’ll see that The American Cinematheque offers unique movie going opportunities throughout the year, including in-person visits by stars and filmmakers as well as sneak-peek screenings of the latest Hollywood has to offer. The basic benefits of membership include ticket discounts, free tickets, two free admissions the month of your birthday, a tax-deduction, and invitations to private member screenings all year long. Whatever your cinema passion, the American Cinematheque will more than easily satisfy it.
If you or your gift recipient have an interest in preserving the past, then becoming a member of the American FIlm Institute (AFI) is an ideal investment. In addition to the many events and screenings sponsored throughout the year by the AFI, the Institute is a leader in the world of cinema preservation. Membership starts at just $60, and in addition to knowing that you’ve contributed to restoring and protecting the past for future generations you’ll have some nifty bonuses for joining the ever growing populace of cinephiles - including movie tickets, a year’s subscription to Entertainment Weekly, and exclusive advance opportunity for seats at the annual AFI Film Festival. And so much more! Just use the above picture as a link to learn more about everything the AFI has to offer the true classic film fanatic.
After Christmas Sales: If you’re looking for a deal on those classic films you didn’t find in your stocking be sure to check out the so-called Giant Movie Blowout Movies Unlimited is having right this very moment. The savings are quite substantial, up to 80%, and there’s FREE shipping with all purchases of $50 or more. Classic films on DVD also make the perfect thank-you gift. You may not have been prepared on the day, but everyone will enjoy the thoughtfulness of a thank-you they can experience again and again. And if you’re not sure exactly what to buy, Turner Classic Movies (TCM) offers Gift Cards in various amounts that can be used to purchase anything available on their shopping site. And you can email them directly to the recipient just like iTune cards.
For the Person Who Didn't Get The "Write" Gift This Year: Still not satisfied? The Writer’s Store in Los Angeles has a unique gift item that is sure to bring a sigh to the heart of even the most nostalgic person you know. Now on sale at 20% off you can get a Vintage Typewriter Key Charm Necklace. That’s right, it’s an old typewriter key (any letter of your choice) set in silver and strung on a silver chain. It’s a lovely and simple piece of jewelry that reflects the wearer’s appreciation for a more romanticized time.
There you have it. If you’re still looking for something a little more specific to the interest of an individual contact me directly and I’ll see what I can do. You may be surprised, but even in the smallest of towns, in the most remote areas, seemingly untouched by the world of classic cinema, there are possibilities for celebrating our passion to the fullest. You just have to know where to look for it, but you just might need the help of a film geek like me to do it.
Here’s to the Happiest of New Years!