TCM Classic Film Festival 2023: Michael Mann, Rob Reiner, Paul Schrader, Kathy Bates, and Aaron Sorkin Set to Attend

Exciting Lineup for the 16th Annual TCM Classic Film Festival

This month, Hollywood will welcome a plethora of cinematic talent as Michael Mann, Rob Reiner, Kathy Bates, Aaron Sorkin, Keir Dullea, Sean Young, Barry Bostwick, and Eric Braedon join the festivities at the 16th annual TCM Classic Film Festival.

Panel Discussions and Screenings

Reiner is set to engage in insightful discussions with Kathy Bates and Aaron Sorkin, leading up to screenings of his iconic dramas: Misery (1990) and The American President (1995). The festival will conclude with a special presentation of Mann’s acclaimed film Heat (1995), featuring memorable performances, including one by the late Val Kilmer.

The festival runs from April 24 to 27, 2024, in Hollywood, promising an enriching experience for film enthusiasts.

Film Presentations

Additional presenters highlighted in a recent announcement include:

  • Keir Dullea discussing 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)
  • Barry Bostwick for The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975)
  • Sean Young sharing insights on Blade Runner (1982)

Furthermore, Danny Huston will introduce the classic Heaven Knows, Mr. Allison (1957), a film directed by his father, John Huston. Alexander Payne will energize the audience for Ben-Hur (1959), while Paul Schrader will set the stage for Hud (1963). The dynamic duo of sound master Ben Burtt and visual effects expert Craig Barron will discuss and present Colossus: The Forbin Project (1970) alongside Eric Braedon.

Innovative Film Showings

This year, for the first time since the 1950s, TCM will screen films in the VistaVision format. This innovative format, which captures images horizontally across two 35mm frames, will enhance the visual experience of classic features.

In a collaboration with Paramount, two VistaVision films being showcased are We’re No Angels (1955) and Gunfight at the O.K. Corral (1957). Using special projectors, the films promise stunning visuals and audio, thanks to the renowned Perspecta sound system. Lol Crawley, who recently took home an Oscar for Best Cinematography for his work in The Brutalist, will be present to add expert commentary.

From left: Leo G. Carroll, Basil Rathbone and Humphrey Bogart in 1955’s We’re No Angels.
From left: Leo G. Carroll, Basil Rathbone, and Humphrey Bogart in 1955’s We’re No Angels.
Courtesy Everett Collection

Celebrating Film History

The festival will also mark the 90th anniversary of the British Film Institute’s National Archive with a series of screenings, including:

  • The Private Life of Henry VIII (1933), introduced by BFI’s head of conservation, Kieron Webb
  • To Be or Not to Be (1942)
  • Blithe Spirit (1945), with commentary from Christine Ebersole
  • Mildred Pierce (1945), presented in a rare nitrate print
  • Edge of the City (1957)
  • Jaws (1975), in Technicolor, featuring an appearance by Lorraine Gary

Club TCM Conversations

Conversations at Club TCM, located within the Hollywood Roosevelt, will include appearances by BFI CEO Ben Roberts, previously announced honoree Michael Schultz, and celebrity-cemetery experts Karie Bible and Steven Bingen.

Opening Night Festivities

The festival will kick off at the TCL Chinese Theatre with a screening of The Empire Strikes Back (1980), featuring the presence of George Lucas. Attendees can also look forward to a handprint and footprint ceremony with Michelle Pfeiffer, as well as the presentation of the Robert Osborne Award to George Stevens Jr.

Notably, films will return to the El Capitan Theatre after several years, offering guests an immersive film experience. For further details on the festival, visit here.

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