Bit to Do

My friends, it is hot outside. Whoever decided that summer entertainment belongs predominantly outside is an idiot. Outdoor sports, outdoor concerts, outdoor festivals – it’s too hot! Sweating is decidedly not fun – or sexy. The only thing that makes sense is swimming, for those of us lucky enough to have access to a pool.

Luckily, the Louisville Palace has the right idea, as we are now in the third week of their summer film series, during which they screen films inside the beautiful venue for the affordable price of $5. For those just tuning in, this year’s theme is “The Directors Series: Hollywood’s Golden Age,” and thus far we have seen masterpieces by the likes of Orson Welles, Howard Hawks, and Charlie Chaplin.

Normally films screen every Friday and Saturday, but this weekend there will only be a film shown on Saturday, as Barry Manilow will grace the stage with his presence this evening. (I’d rather have more Chaplin films, but that’s just me.)

So: tomorrow, Saturday, the Directors Series continues with Alfred Hitchcock’s 1959 classic North By Northwest, starring Cary Grant, Eva Marie-Saint, and James Mason.

Grant plays Roger Thornhill, an advertising executive who is mistaken as a government agent and framed for murder. While most people would calmly talk to the police and try to clear everything up, that wouldn’t make for an interesting film, and this is Hitchcock, so Thornhill goes on the run in an attempt to clear his name, find the truth, and bring the real villains to justice. Featuring famous scenes such as the bi-plane attack and the exciting climax atop Mt. Rushmore, this is Hitchcock at his most iconic.

North By Northwest plays at the Louisville Palace tomorrow, Saturday, at 8:00. The Palace is located at 625 S. 4^th Street. Further venue information, as well as advance ticket sales, can be found at the Palace website.

Image: Internet Movie Database