December 6 - The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992), directed by Brian Henson, starring Michael Caine, Steve Whitmire (Kermit the Frog and Bob Cratchit), and Frank Oz (Miss Piggy).
The Muppet Christmas Carol offers something different for yuletide fare. The merging of Charles Dickens’ immortal tale of redemption with the musicalized Muppet universe is just right - making for a refreshingly offbeat, funny, and heartwarming take on a familiar tale. Michael Caine does a remarkably fine job of acting opposite a slew of wondrous puppets, bringing a genuine pathos and power to his interpretation of Ebenezer Scrooge. David Parkinson of Radio Times (UK) wrote: “Although the story has been Muppetised, no attempt has been made to water down the story, and the poignancy of the moral tale is as affecting as ever.”
Matthew Kennedy, CinemaLit’s curator, has written biographies of Marie Dressler, Joan Blondell, and Edmund Goulding. His book Roadshow! The Fall of Film Musicals in the 1960s, was the basis of a film series on Turner Classic Movies. His most recent book, On Elizabeth Taylor: An Opinionated Guide, examines the screen legend's entire career.
“I don't have a favorite film,” Matthew says. "I find that my relationships to films, actors, genres, and directors change as I change over the years. Some don't hold up. Some look more profound, as though I've caught up with their artistry. I feel that way about Garbo, Cary Grant, director John Cassavetes, and others."
“Classic films have historical context, something only time can provide,” Matt observes. “They become these great cultural artifacts, so revealing of tastes, attitudes, and assumptions.”
Mechanics' Institute Members Free
Non-Members $10
Cafe opens at 5:30 pm with wine, beer, sparkling water, juice, and fresh-popped popcorn for sale.
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Please note: Photos and/or video may be taken during this event.
CinemaLit Films
