44°
After “Meet John Doe,” will be: “You Can’t Take it With You” (1938) on March 10; and “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington” (1939) on May 12.
Longtime Journal News entertainment reporter and editor Peter D. Kramer will moderate the series. He'll introduce each film and lead a post-screening discussion that is sure to entertain.
Filmgoers who saw “It Happened One Night,” which opened the series, were treated to doughnut and coffee – in the film Clark Gable’s character teaches Claudette Colbert’s character how to dunk a doughnut!
“Peter made the whole thing feel homey. His commentary was interesting and gossipy – the fun kind. It felt like you were getting the inside scoop,” raved Schoolhouse manager Bridget Thorne.
“Meet John Doe" is Barbara Stanwyck and "The Coop" Gary Cooper at their irresistible best. A reporter (Stanwyck) writes a fictitious column about someone named "John Doe," who is distraught at America's neglect of the little people and plans to kill himself. The newspaper then hires a ballplayer-turned-hobo (Gary Cooper) to pose as John Doe.
In a series of radio addresses written by a publisher with a populist bent, Doe captures the public's imagination. When he finally realizes he has been used, Doe comes to his senses and becomes the man he never knew he could be.
Capra was born in Italy and settled in Los Angeles with his family when he was 5 years old. He didn't mind that his hopelessly sentimental films were written off by critics as "Capra-corn.”
“As a filmmaker, Frank Capra brought an immigrant’s perspective to 'The American Dream,'” said Kramer, a lifelong fan of the three-time Oscar winner - a dream that resonates still today.
Kramer is looking forward to the next group of “Capraphiles.” What treat might they be in for? Come and find out. Individual tickets are $10. Walk-ins are welcome.
To purchase tickets, go to www.schoolhousetheater.org or call 914-277-8477.
The screening for "Meet John Doe" begins at 7:30 p.m.
The Schoolhouse is at 3 Owens Road, Croton Falls, just off exit 8 on I-684.
Click here to follow Daily Voice North Salem and receive free news updates.
