CLASSIC MOVIE NIGHT at the Historic USO Building

For those of you who have fallen in love with the current smash hit “Wicked, Part One”, Classic Movie Night has a real treat in store on Wednesday, January 29.   The legendary Diana Ross heads a cast of iconic African-American performers in the 1978 film version of the award-winning Broadway hit musical based on the original “Wizard of Oz” tales.  Directed by the famed Sidney Lumet, the story is about Dorothy, (Ross) a 24-yea-old teacher from Harlem who finds herself magically transported to the urban fantasy Land of Oz. On her travels seeking help from the mysterious Wizard (Richard Pryor), Dorothy befriends a Scarecrow, (Michael Jackson), a robot called Tinman, (Nipsey Russell) and a Cowardly Lion (Ted Ross).She also encounters the Good Witch Glinda (Lena Horne) and, of course, the Wicked Witch (Mabel King). Her ensuing adventure follows the original story, but with a definite modern Black sensitivity. It is backed up with an exciting Motown Records musical beat. The final film product, however, was not reviewed in very high regard because of criticism for using the older Diana Ross in title role, rather than an 11-year-old child, as the original story intended. The negative reviews resulted in a tepid box office.  But, many years later, since Universal Pictures’ astonishing success with “Wicked, Part One,” the earlier musical is gaining new interest and is on its way to cult status. It seems that Universal has had the last laugh!  See it for yourself.    For title, check ou t our Events Board located at the front door of the Historic USO Building, or drop by to pick up a film schedule during Book/Gift Shop hours: Wednesday through Saturday from 11 am to 3 pm., or call  us at 760-375-8456 during those hours.   As a special treat, ou r very own “Good Witches,” Kim Metcalf and Karen Saaty will be on-hand serving up all kinds of wizardy goodies and helping us celebrate Classic Movie Night’s 15th anniversary. Come join the fun!