Daily Loaf

I’m going to let you in on a secret: I’ve never seen “To Kill A Mockingbird.”
I know; it’s a classic with a compelling message and memorable characters. I know it’s supposed to be great. I just never got around to seeing it. I could just go rent it and watch it, of course. But I have a much better idea: I’m going to see it today at Tampa Theatre, 711 N. Franklin St., as part of their Summer Classic Movie Series. That way I’ll see it on the big screen with other people who already love the movie. The theater itself is a pretty special place (I’ve mentioned the tours they offer regularly) so why not see a classic movie in a classic setting?
In addition to seeing a famous film each weekend (the series runs on Sundays until August 23) you also get a few other nice bonuses. Each movie starts at 3 p.m., but if you get there an hour early you can participate in a mini-tour of the theater. About 20 minutes before the movie starts you’ll also enjoy a demonstration of the restored Mighty Wurlitzer Theatre Organ. And for select movies (including To Kill A Mockingbird) you can stay afterward and participate in “Cinema Chat,” where a film expert provides insight into the film, offers background information and leads an interactive discussion. If you really love these movies, it’s a nice extra and all included with your paid admission.
That admission, by the way, is $8. That’s probably less than seeing a non-classic movie in a multiplex that you might end up hating. Throw in the tour, the Mighty Wurlitzer and the discussions and you have a great deal. Other movies in the series include Casablanca, Citizen Kane (both of which I saw for the first time at a previous Summer Classic Series), and Blazing Saddles (which I’ve seen about a hundred times, thank you very much). “To Kill A Mockingbird” plays today. For a complete movie listing and Cinema Chat schedule visit www.tampatheatre.org.

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