The 2024 TCM Classic Film Festival: Day Two

As usual for me, Day Two of the 2024 TCM Classic Film Festival on April 18th kicked off with breakfast with friends at Mel's on Highland.

After breakfast I strolled down Hollywood Boulevard and took a couple snapshots of the preparations for that evening's Opening Night red carpet ceremony.

Among the festival guests on the red carpet that evening would be former child actress Cora Sue Collins, who turned 97 that week! (Press photo courtesy of Turner Classic Movies.)

The festival opened with a trivia game hosted by Bruce Goldstein of New York's Film Forum. Actor-dancer-singer George Chakiris of WEST SIDE STORY (1961) was a surprise guest!

The empty courtyard at the Egyptian Theatre, which would soon be packed with throngs of fest-goers.

I had initially thought I might start off the festival with Doris Day and Rock Hudson in SEND ME NO FLOWERS (1964) at the Multiplex, but friends persuaded me that seeing WHITE HEAT (1949) in 35mm at the Egyptian was the way to go, and I'm glad I went!

WHITE HEAT was the first of three films I saw introduced by Eddie Muller during the festival. (Press photo courtesy of Turner Classic Movies.)

I'd planned to head back to the Multiplex for Powell and Pressburger's THE SMALL BACK ROOM (1949) but spontaneously decided to relax at the Egyptian and see world premiere of a new digital restoration of GAMBIT (1966) starring Michael Caine and Shirley MacLaine.

GAMBIT was introduced by the engaging Sloan De Forest, the author of THE ESSENTIAL DIRECTORS. (Press photo courtesy of Turner Classic Movies.) Other than her intro, I saw GAMBIT "cold," knowing absolutely nothing about it beforehand. Although it was slightfly confusing and I admit I faded a bit mid-film due to the long day, I found it amusing and was glad I opted to see it.

Coming soon: Day Three.

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