On Friday, April 13th, TCM and D23 screened “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea” at Grauman’s Chinese Theater. The screening was for TCM’s annual classic film festival and welcomed special guest, and star of the film, Kirk Douglas.
The experience started with picking up our media passes at the Roosevelt Hotel. I had always wanted to visit the Roosevelt, as it’s said to be haunted by Marilyn Monroe. (Visiting the Roosevelt was actually on my bucket list. Now I just need to stay the night!) The hotel was beautiful inside. I felt like a giddy little girl while we walked through it. Then it was time to head out and wait in the line that snaked down Hollywood Boulevard. It was raining outside, but the folks from TCM were kind enough to provide us with umbrellas to use while standing outside. (Thanks again!)
When we walked into the theater, I had to make sure I wasn’t leaving a trail of drool anywhere. It’s gorgeous in there. Absolutely gorgeous. Grauman’s Chinese Theater was another place on my bucket list to visit. (I got to cross off two things in one day. That’s pretty awesome.) When we were in the screening room, I couldn’t stop staring at the ceiling. It was so ornate and pretty. Next thing I knew Mr. Douglas was coming out onstage.
Photo by Jason Merritt, courtesy of TCM.
After a brief chat with Douglas, the film began. This experience was one of a kind for me. I had never seen the film prior to the screening. I remember loving the attraction at Disneyland as a child but I don’t recall ever seeing the movie. This first viewing experience for me was quite special — I was at the famous Grauman’s Chinese Theater AND Kirk Douglas was there. I’m pretty sure the only other experience that could even compare to this one was being at the film’s world premiere in 1954.
I’d like to say a big thank you to Chelsea Barredo and the rest of the staff at the festival for taking care of us. I enjoyed attending the festival and hope to be back next year.
Photos by Jessica Swaney unless noted.
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