“Matinees on the Mountain” Film Series at Mt. Wilson Observatory

100-inch telescope (Photo – Mount Wilson Observatory)

Enjoy classic sci-fi, vintage silent films, and even a few family-friendly surprises in Mt. Wilson Observatory’s 256-seat auditorium.

By Katlyn Ong

Moviegoers can enjoy lunch at the Cosmic Cafe or picnic on the grounds, explore the Observatory’s rich history, and then settle in for a unique cinematic experience above the city. Movie snacks and drinks will be available for purchase. All showings will be from 3:00 pm – 5:30 pm.

Mount Wilson Observatory and the Livonian Cinema welcome silent film historian and projectionist Joe Rinaudo, who will bring his 1909 hand-cranked 35-millimeter motion picture machine and a program of science fiction films, all from his personal collection. Movies will include Georges Méliès’ Trip to the Moon and Dave Fleischer’s Koko’s Earth Control, among other surprises. Ed Torres, house organist at the Bob Baker Marionette Theater, will provide music accompaniment on organ, and Gary Gibson will assist with film projection and the presentation of Magic Lantern slides prior to the show.

Matinees will include a brief intermission, during which movie-goers can see the projector up close. Don’t miss your chance to see these lovingly restored machines and movies up on the mountain.

The Livonian Cinema is a traveling movie theater that creates site specific events in collaboration with artists and communities throughout Southern California.

Movie Lineup

• June 21: Sci-Fi Silent Shorts
• July 26: Contact (1997)
• August 23: Astronomical Short Films with LA Filmforum
• September 27: Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977)
• October 25: To Be Announced

For more information and to purchase tickets, click here.