The Alamo Drafthouse, known for its unique movie-watching experiences, is embarking on a year-long program called “Time Capsules.” This program aims to bring back the magic of curated films from the years 1974 to 1999. Unlike traditional lists of best movies, Alamo Time Capsules will take audiences on a journey through significant years in cinema, culture, and history.
Throughout the year, Alamo Drafthouse will showcase nearly 150 different film selections, each representing a specific year. These curated collections, spanning six to eight weeks, will feature both beloved box office hits and hidden gems that have been overshadowed by time. Audiences can expect a mix of familiar classics and lesser-known treasures.
The first Time Capsule collection kicks off with the year 1999, a highly memorable time for cinema. Films like “Being John Malkovich,” “The Iron Giant,” and “The Matrix” captured the imagination of audiences in that era. This collection aims to transport moviegoers back to that transformative year and remind them of the magic that unfolded on the big screen.
The minds behind this program are passionate about preserving and exhibiting the rich history of cinema. Senior film programmer, John Smith, reminisces about his early days working in a movie theater in 1999, where he witnessed the diverse range of films that graced the silver screen. Now, twenty-five years later, he takes pride in the Alamo Drafthouse’s ability to reintroduce these films to new generations across the country.
Jake Isgar, another Alamo Drafthouse programmer, emphasizes the importance of exhibiting a diverse array of films for the betterment of film culture as a whole. The tireless work put into restoring and unearthing cinema treasures highlights the significance of sharing these cinematic gems with audiences.
The Time Capsule program will continue throughout the year, with each collection shedding light on a different era. In March and April, audiences can revisit the memorable films of 1994, including Quentin Tarantino’s “Pulp Fiction” and Kevin Smith’s “Clerks.” May and June will transport viewers back to 1989, featuring iconic films such as “Do the Right Thing” and “Batman.”
As the summer approaches, the Alamo Drafthouse will dedicate July and August to films from 1984. This collection will give audiences a chance to relive the magic of movies like “Purple Rain” and “The Neverending Story.” September through November will showcase films from 1979, including “Apocalypse Now,” “The Deer Hunter,” and “Stalker.” The program will come to a close in October through December, with a nostalgic look back at 1974, featuring masterpieces like “The Godfather Part II” and “Texas Chainsaw Massacre.”
The Alamo Time Capsules program is the brainchild of John Smith, Jake Isgar, and Jenny Nulf from the company’s Alternative Content department. This ambitious project has garnered support from various distribution partners, including Janus Films, Kino Lorber, Lionsgate, Paramount, and Warner Bros. Classics, among others. Through their combined efforts, these organizations aim to ensure that these cinematic treasures continue to inspire and captivate audiences for years to come.
For cinema enthusiasts and those yearning for a journey back in time, the Alamo Drafthouse’s Time Capsules program offers a unique and nostalgic movie-watching experience. Each collection serves as a reminder of the impact and influence these films had on their respective years and the cinematic landscape as a whole. So, grab your popcorn, settle into your seat, and get ready to relive the magic of cinema’s most iconic moments.