When the Walker-sponsored “Movies in the Park” announced their 2009 Summer theme of the films of Paul Newman, I have to tell you I was beyond giddy. A steadfast attendee to the annual outdoor film series, I’ve been rather disappointed with the movie choices over the last few years. With the exception of “Film Noir” and “the films of Nicholas Ray,” nothing has really captured my attention. Oh, I’ll go, plant a blanket down on the green Loring Park grass, discreetly sip wine out of a nondescript container, but sooner or later my eyes start to wander on the attractive bunch of locals gathered around. Or I’ll get involved in mindless conversation. My heart’s just not in it. Come on. Last year’s politico-theme? I’m sorry but YAWN. Don’t get me wrong; I’m all for the Manchurian Candidate, but in an outdoor park setting, it just loses it’s punch.

Even if 2009′s theme was based on sentimentality alone – entirely possible considering Newman’s death late last year – there’s no going wrong with a film starring this amazing actor. Is my bias showing yet? Throughout his incredible acting career which spans from the early 50′s to the early 2000′s, his dedication to quality rather than quantity was apparent and refreshing. Gracefully, taking on his role of Hollywood’s blue-eyed heartthrob, Newman created countless iconic and quotable classics (“nobody can eat 50 eggs,” anyone?). If you haven’t seen the timeless gems on the schedule, I can’t think of a better way to see them than on a gorgeous Summer night, in beautiful Loring Park. And a sexy Newman on the big screen, need I say more?

The Walker movie series opens with my ultimate Newman favorite, 1958′s Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, based on the screenplay by the brilliant Tennessee Williams and directed by Richard Brooks. In this brilliant and edgy drama, Newman was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actor but lost to David Niven in Separate Tables. A total travesty. Who even remembers that movie?! The film’s homosexual under-themes, steamy tensions and references to alcoholism, made it a controversial film for it’s time, but it’s all-star leads – featuring the sensual Elizabeth Taylor as “Maggie the Cat” – left audiences enraptured. I won’t add any major details for fear of spoiling the film for newbies, but let’s just say the film’s Southern setting isn’t the only thing “hot” about this movie.

Needless to say, the legendary auto racer, actor, food entrepreneur, director and humanitarian, Paul Newman, will always live on in our hearts, our minds and basically every time we fix ourselves a salad.

If the film line-up wasn’t enough, this year’s pre-screening music features a near perfect selection of bands: Halloween, Alaska, Roma di Luna, Gospel Gossip, and Times New Viking, plus sets from local DJs from 89.3 The Current.

Cat on a Hot Tin Roof is paired with local atmospheric electronica-pop band, Halloween, Alaska and DJ Steve Seel. Check out the video for Halloween, Alaska’s “Hot Pink”:

“Hot Pink” – Halloween, Alaska from Tim Morgan, Adam Celt on Vimeo.

Food vendors from Lunds will be set up prior to the showings. In the event of rain, the films will be moved into the limited seating, first come-first serve, Walker Cinema. Music starts at 7 p.m. with screenings scheduled for dusk (approximately 8:45 p.m.).

“Movies in the Park” 2009 Schedule

Monday, July 20th – Cat on a Hot Tin Roof with Halloween, Alaska
Monday, July 27th – Hud with Roma di Luna
Monday, August 3rd – Cool Hand Luke with Gospel Gossip
Monday, August 10th – The Hustler with Times New Viking