**Movie Review: ‘Close Encounters of the Third Kind’ Still Available on TCM**
The 15th Annual Turner Classic Movies (TCM) Film Festival recently concluded, leaving attendees both physically exhausted and culturally rejuvenated. The festival, held in Hollywood, showcased a variety of classic films in historic venues, reminding everyone of the timeless power of cinema. Among the many highlights was the screening of Steven Spielberg’s sci-fi masterpiece, “Close Encounters of the Third Kind,” which remains available for viewing on TCM.
**A Star-Studded Festival**
The festival kicked off with a bang, featuring a 30th-anniversary screening of “Pulp Fiction.” The event saw the reunion of much of the original cast, including John Travolta, Samuel L. Jackson, Uma Thurman, and Harvey Keitel. Each actor shared their experiences working on the film, emphasizing its significance in their careers. The audience was thrilled, with many capturing the moment on their phones as the cast gathered on stage.
**Spielberg’s Sci-Fi Classic**
Steven Spielberg himself was present to introduce “Close Encounters of the Third Kind.” He shared anecdotes about the film’s evolution from a similar project he worked on as a teenager to the iconic sci-fi film it became. Spielberg’s stories about casting Richard Dreyfuss in the lead role were both insightful and entertaining, adding a personal touch to the screening.
**Other Notable Appearances**
Jodie Foster also made an appearance for a screening of “Silence of the Lambs.” She revealed that Gene Hackman was initially set to direct and star in the film. However, once Jonathan Demme took over, he intended to cast Michelle Pfeiffer as Clarice Starling. Foster recounted how she pitched herself for the role, a meeting that ultimately proved successful.
Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman reunited for a showing of “The Shawshank Redemption,” where they praised each other’s performances. Director David Fincher attended a screening of “Se7en,” sharing behind-the-scenes stories about the film’s production and its iconic opening credits sequence.
**A Celebration of Cinema**
The festival offered an eclectic mix of films, catering to a wide range of tastes. One of the standout screenings was the Barbara Stanwyck-Henry Fonda screwball comedy “The Mad Miss Manton” at the newly renovated Egyptian Theater. The venue, though smaller in seating capacity, has been restored to its original splendor.
The main auditorium at the TCL Chinese Theater was another highlight. With a seating capacity of nearly 900, the theater features sloping seats surrounded by 1920s décor and an ornate ceiling. The outside lobby, adorned with a red carpet and dragon statues, adds to the venue’s historic charm.
**Unexpected Encounters**
The festival’s Hollywood setting meant that attendees could run into celebrities at any moment. The author crossed paths with actresses Rosanna Arquette, Kate Flannery from “The Office,” and Elsie Fisher from “8th Grade,” all of whom were kind and welcoming.
**The Importance of Film Fans**
Perhaps the most impressive aspect of the festival was the gathering of classic film fans. Last year, when TCM faced the threat of being shut down, the outcry from the film community and loyal fans was overwhelming. In an era where many young people are unaware of film history, it was refreshing to engage with fellow cinema enthusiasts. Their passion for movies is what makes the festival possible, a sentiment echoed by the festival hosts. As long as viewers continue to attend, the TCM Film Festival is likely to grow and thrive for years to come.
**A Rich Tapestry of Events**
The TCM Classic Film Festival, now in its 15th year, continues to present a rich tapestry of classic films, panels, and personal appearances by industry legends. This year’s festival included appearances by John Travolta, Steven Spielberg, Mel Brooks, and Tim Robbins, among others. Jodie Foster even cemented her place in Hollywood history with a hand and footprint ceremony at the TCL Chinese Theatre.
Panel discussions at Club TCM, located in the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, added depth to the festival experience. One notable panel, “Reflections of the Thin Blue Line: The Police in Movies,” featured actor/director Mario Van Peebles, former NYPD officer Herman Weisberg, and Dr. Phillip Atiba Solomon from Yale University. Another highlight was Donald Bogle’s presentation of “The Mad Miss Manton,” where he discussed the representation of Black characters in Hollywood films.
**A Tribute to Hattie McDaniel**
Bogle’s presentation focused on Hattie McDaniel, the first African American to win an Oscar for her role in “Gone with the Wind.” He highlighted her ability to subvert stereotypes, even within the limited roles available to her. McDaniel’s sharp dialogue in “The Mad Miss Manton” showcased her talent for delivering zingers, despite the constraints of the era’s censorship.
**A Celebration of Diverse Cinema**
The festival also celebrated films that addressed social issues. “The Bingo Long Traveling All-Stars & Motor Kings,” a comedy-drama about Negro League baseball players, was screened with actor Billy Dee Williams in attendance. The film’s themes of class struggle and collective ownership resonated with the audience, highlighting the intersection of race and economics.
**A Fitting Conclusion**
The festival concluded with a Buster Keaton double bill at the Egyptian Theater, featuring “The Goat” and “Sherlock Jr.” The Mont Alto Motion Picture Orchestra provided live musical accompaniment, enhancing the experience. Keaton’s inventive sight gags and slapstick humor continue to captivate audiences, even 100 years later.
**Looking Ahead**
As the festival wrapped up, the sense of community among classic film fans was palpable. Despite challenges, such as technical issues with cable providers, the passion for cinema remains strong. The TCM Classic Film Festival is a testament to the enduring appeal of classic films and the dedicated fans who keep their legacy alive.
**Conclusion**
“Close Encounters of the Third Kind” remains a standout film in the TCM lineup, and its screening at the festival was a highlight for many attendees. The festival’s success underscores the importance of preserving and celebrating classic cinema. As long as there are fans who appreciate these films, the TCM Film Festival will continue to be a cherished event for years to come.
Source: Turner Classic Movies Film Festival
