Lights, camera, (old) action!

This historic theater is a real Austin gem. It originally opened in 1915 and was created for vaudeville type entertainment. Small and intimate, ornate and fancy decor...amazing. Something about the atmosphere is magical.

Over the summer they run a film series of about 30 or so old movies from the 1950's, 60's, etc.

Some titles from the 2011 season included:
The Apartment (directed by Billy Wilder and with Jack Lemmon, Shirley MacLaine)

Batman (Adam west and Burt Ward)

The Pickpocket

Paper Moon (Ryan and Tatum O'Neal)

Laurence of Arabia

To Catch a Thief (directed by Alfred Hitchcock: with Grace Kelly, Cary Grant)

Last night was Giant (James Dean's last film; Elizabeth Taylor, Rock Hudson and a very young Dennis Hopper). A tale of Texas culture that really made so much sense with this movie.

I now have a new appreciation for the older movies. Simple yet a complex look at human interactions, smart and witty storylines, plots and acting. It is what movies should be all about.

These days, movies are all about the senses rather than intelligence. Movies that win awards are all about the best effects and explosions, graphics, raunchiest kiss, etc. We're all turning into a bunch of morons with current entertainment and media. They are entertaining in that they take our minds off of everyday life and put brain waves on autopilot, but that's about it. I literally feel my brain collapsing and melting into itself as I watch some of the pop culture entertainment.

...but these older movies....I actually walk away feeling a little more in touch with humanity, having fallen in love with some characters and loving to hate others. Now THAT's what movies should be all about, real acting!

I look forward to next summer's film series, if I'm still living in Austin. I adore this theater and the new world it has opened me up to. Its a real shame I have just now come to appreciate this place....

Location: Paramount Theater (Austin, Tx)