The Park Ridge Public Library Classic Film Series returned for its 13th season on March 2, 2023, with a screening of Rosita (1923), starring Mary Pickford as a street singer in early 19th century Spain. This was the first film in a three-month program dedicated to director Ernst Lubitsch. Rosita attracted a full house– 84 in attendance– which was the largest crowd for a classic film in five years. Fans were no doubt drawn in by special guest Jay Warren, who provided the musical accompaniment on his digital organ. (This instrument is specifically tuned to sound exactly like a Wurlitzer theatre organ.)
To get 80+ patrons for a film that is a hundred years old is heartening to see in this day and age when the majority of audiences are staying home and streaming more modern content. The library series, however, makes a point to showcase the artistry of cinema in the best possible context; that is, with an audience.
There was a noticeably wider demographic of patrons with several new faces and a few who didn’t exactly live next door. One gentleman drove in from Evanston just to be there. The response to the film was overwhelmingly positive. One of our patrons, Nancy, commented on the various twists and turns of the film’s plot, which dealt with Rosita’s entanglements with the king and other court intrigue. Overall, she thought the screening was particularly apropos for Women’s History Month. (The film features two strong-willed characters. One of whom, of course, is played by Mary Pickford, who was a powerful figure in Hollywood at a time when the industry was dominated by men.) Another patron pointed out the opera-like elements of Rosita and how it could almost have been a Puccini opera (save for the ending).
We thank everyone who came out to support our first show of the new season. “The Lubitsch Touch” continues on Thursday nights at 7 PM through May.
~MCH
Program Host Matthew C. Hoffman
A full house for Season 13 Opening Night!
Introducing the film and Ernst Lubitsch…
(Left to Right) Edward Knoblock [who co-wrote the screenplay for “Rosita”], Douglas Fairbanks Sr., Ernst Lubitsch [Director] and Mary Pickford. (Photo is courtesy of film historian Kendall Miller.)