Spooky Season Delights: A Cinematic Celebration of Halloween in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a city that thrives on creativity and a deep appreciation for the art of storytelling, and this is never more evident than during the spooky season of Halloween. From the historic Gardena Cinema to the iconic New Beverly, the city's movie theaters are gearing up to offer a diverse array of horror, suspense, and supernatural delights that are sure to captivate audiences of all ages.

Unraveling the Mysteries of "Anora" and the Allure of Independent Theaters

The release of Sean Baker's neo-screwball comedy "Anora" in Los Angeles marks a significant moment for cinephiles. The film, which won the Palme d'Or at Cannes, is described as having a "secret, sad loneliness about it," with lead actress Mikey Madison delivering a "star-making performance" that is sure to leave a lasting impression. Director Sean Baker's affinity for independent theaters, such as the historic Gardena Cinema, further underscores the importance of these intimate, community-driven spaces in shaping the cinematic landscape of the city.

Embracing the Communal Experience of Horror

As the spooky season approaches, Los Angeles' vibrant moviegoing scene comes alive with a diverse array of horror-themed screenings. From the super-spooky to the ultra-rare, the city's theaters offer something for every horror enthusiast. Vidiots, a beloved independent theater, has curated an impressive lineup that includes classics like "Nosferatu," "Poltergeist," and "Tales from the Hood," as well as the Blaxploitation-horror mash-up "Sugar Hill." The American Cinematheque, meanwhile, is spotlighting the work of Brazilian director José Mojica Marins, whose character Coffin Joe has become a national boogeyman akin to Jason or Freddy in the United States.

Unearthing Rare Gems and Rediscovering Classics

The city's movie theaters are also offering rare and rediscovered gems for the Halloween season. The Vista Theater's Video Archives Cinema Club is showcasing some of the biggest rarities, including "From Beyond the Grave" and "The Skull." The New Beverly, a beloved institution, is presenting a fantastic double bill of the recent horror hits "Longlegs" and "The First Omen," both in 35mm. Additionally, the New Beverly will screen a 35mm print of the underrated "Halloween III: Season of the Witch" and "Trick 'r Treat," providing a unique opportunity for fans to experience these films on the big screen.

Celebrating the Legacy of Horror Icons and Pioneering Filmmakers

Los Angeles' movie theaters are also honoring the legacies of iconic horror figures and pioneering filmmakers. The Academy Museum will host 4K screenings of George Melford's Spanish-language 1931 "Drácula," starring Carlos Villarías and Lupita Tovar, which was notoriously shot during the evenings on the same sets as Tod Browning's version starring Bela Lugosi. The LA Opera has commissioned a new score from two-time Oscar winner Gustavo Santaolalla to accompany the screenings of Melford's "Drácula." Additionally, the LA Philharmonic will present a screening of F.W. Murnau's classic 1922 "Nosferatu" at the Walt Disney Concert Hall, with a live performance by organist Clark Wilson.

Elevating Diverse Voices and Perspectives

Amidst the spooky celebrations, the Micheaux Film Festival, named after pioneering Black independent filmmaker Oscar Micheaux, is providing a platform for diverse voices and perspectives. The festival, which runs from October 21-27, will feature a range of thought-provoking films, including Sandrine Orabona's documentary "A Radical Act: Renee Montgomery," Lovell Holder's "Lavender Men," and Nida Chowdhry's dark comedy "Anxious." The festival's mission to "lead with help, elevate with value, and close the knowledge gap between indie and industry" underscores the importance of fostering inclusive and empowering spaces within the film industry.As the spooky season descends upon Los Angeles, the city's movie theaters are poised to offer a cinematic experience that is both thrilling and enriching. From the rediscovery of rare gems to the celebration of iconic horror figures and pioneering filmmakers, this Halloween promises to be a truly unforgettable celebration of the power of storytelling and the magic of the silver screen.