Has anyone been to any of the free movies hosted by Lin-Manuel Miranda? Is there are any organization to being seated there, or do you just sit wherever you want, first come first served, and how was the experience in general (audience behavior, etc.)? I have a ticket to Raiders of the Lost Ark tomorrow with the post-show Spielberg interview, and trying to decide whether or not to make the trip.
I have not attended any of Lin's movies but grew up in that hood and went to movies there as a kid. I think that theater in it of itself is worth the trip. It is truly one of the old palaces.
Been to all of them this year and it’s one of the last surviving Golden Age movie palaces. It’s GORGEOUS and yes, the films are shown on a huge classic silver screen.
Seating is not assigned but once inside, it’s well organized and not chaotic. There are 2 lines that form outside: Orchestra tickets and Balcony tickets. Due to COVID, it’s not filled to capacity so even though it’s sold-out, there are rows of empty seats so it’s not a cluster-ph-**k. The line(s) to get in for the Hugh Jackman/GREATEST SHOWMAN were beyond insane (it wrapped around like 4 blocks), but they move so it’s tolerable. I suggest you arrive an hour or so earlier so you have a decent spot in line when the doors finally open. I expect this Spielberg/RAIDERS screening to have the same insane lines outside but again, once you’re inside the building, you can enjoy yourself. Keep in mind, sitting up close you’ll see Lin and Spielberg great but it’s horrible being up close for the actual movie. I learned this mistake for the ALL ABOUT EVE screening. Loved being close to the stage during the pre-film chat with Bebe Neuwirth and Laura Benanti but when the film started, it was mostly Bette Davis’ lips in my face. This RAIDERS screening, the chat is afterwards so keep this in mind.