Hollywood’s Greatest Year: 1939

This summer, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences will be running a film series on Monday nights showcasing the ten (yes, 10) Best Picture nominees of 1939. It’s the 70th Anniversary of what many consider the Hollywood’s greatest year. The celebration will include restored prints of such films as Mr. Smith Goes To Washington, Stagecoach, Gone With the Wind and of course, The Wizard of Oz.

In addition to the feature films, each week will include a chapter of Universal’s Buck Rogers serial with Buster Crabbe (surely this must be the first time a serial is screened at the Academy!) and a 35mm print of a select 1939 cartoon. The cartoon line up hasn’t been announced, but it is sure to include Disney’s The Pointer (above), The Ugly Duckling, MGM’s Peace on Earth and Warner’s Detouring America. I believe the restored Popeye two reeler Aladdin and his Wonderful Lamp will also be screened.

When I get the get the cartoon schedule I will post an update. In the meantime, mark your Monday’s from May 18th through August 3rd. The series ticket is $25. for all ten films – that’s $2.50 per screening! For more information check the Academy website. See you there!