40th Anniversary screening of “2001: A Space Odyssey” at the Samuel Goldwyn Theatre

posted by JSA on May 2, 2008 at 7:42 am

BEVERLY HILLS, CA — I meant to post this earlier in the week, but was sidetracked. At any rate, the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences held a special 40th anniversary screening of “2001: A Space Odyssey” on Friday, April 25th. The sold out event took place at the Academy’s Samuel Goldwyn Theatre and was hosted by Tom Hanks. Mr. Hanks, who was introduced by Academy President Sid Ganis, offered personal remarks and perspectives on the film, and in turn introduced the evening’s special guests. These included cast members Keir Dullea (Astronaut Bowman), Gary Lockwood (Astronaut Poole), Daniel Richter (Moon Watcher), special effects master Douglas Trumbull and special effects artist Bruce Logan. Apollo 11 astronaut Buzz Aldrin was in attendance as well, and received a well deserved standing ovation. Other highlights before the screening included a pre-recorded message sent by astronaut Garrett Reisman from the International Space Station.

The 70 mm 6-track print was in a beautiful, near perfect condition, and was presented flawlessly. The screening was followed by a panel discussion with guests Dullea, Richter, Lockwood, Trumbull and Logan. Each offered their particular remembrances of this landmark film, and their experiences of working with Stanley Kubrick. A rare brief audio-visual clip with commentary on filmmaking by Kubrick himself was played during the discussion. Unfortunately, due to time constraints (read: babysitter), I had to leave before the discussion was over. But I could not help to think how strange that, 40 years after my first viewing of “2001”, I would be sitting with an audience that included some of the people (cast and crew) responsible for some of the most visually stunning images ever put on film.

For those who missed this event, the Academy will be continue its celebration of “2001” with a behind the scenes look on Wednesday, May 21, at the Samuel Goldwyn Theatre, featuring hosts Tom Hanks and Douglas Trumbull. For more info on these events, visit the Academy website.