The Chestnut Hill Film Group (CHFG) kicks off its 53rd season with a major technological upgrade, introducing a new theatrical-level laser projector that promises to transform the viewing experience at Woodmere Art Museum. The free weekly screenings, every Tuesday at 7 p.m., showcase a diverse selection of classic and rare films on the big screen, creating a vital cultural hub for film enthusiasts throughout the Philadelphia region.
The volunteer-run organization has invested in cutting-edge projection equipment that delivers three times the brightness of previous screenings, along with enhanced color spectrum and contrast. A newly installed 4K processor ensures optimal picture quality, marking a significant advancement in the group's mission to present films "as they were meant to be seen."
"This technological upgrade represents a major step forward for our community screenings," said Ralph Hirshorn, a founding member of the Chestnut Hill Film Group. "The improved visual quality allows our audiences to experience these classic films with unprecedented clarity and vibrancy."
For cinephiles and casual moviegoers alike, CHFG offers a unique opportunity to explore film history in an engaging, community-oriented setting. The winter and spring 2024 program features a strong emphasis on British cinema, with six British films among the 17 films on offer. This international focus extends to several foreign language features, offering audiences access to diverse storytelling beyond mainstream Hollywood productions.
Every season's curated selection spans multiple decades and genres, from early silent films to contemporary independent productions. Weekly screenings include film noir, romantic comedies, crime thrillers, and character-driven dramas, carefully chosen to represent significant moments in cinema history. Each screening becomes a journey through film history, with audiences discovering hidden gems and revisiting beloved classics together.
A highlight of the upcoming season includes a special screening of Alfred Hitchcock's silent film "The Lodger: A Story of the London Fog," accompanied by live music performed by Not So Silent Cinema. This event exemplifies the Film Group's commitment to presenting cinema in its original format and celebrating the storied history of film.
The organization's longevity - now in its sixth decade - speaks to the enduring appeal of communal film viewing. Despite the proliferation of home streaming services, CHFG has maintained steady attendance by offering an authentic theatrical experience combined with thoughtfully curated programming. In an era dominated by digital streaming, watching these films in a theater setting, surrounded by fellow cinema enthusiasts, creates a unique atmosphere that can't be replicated at home.
Operating from Woodmere Art Museum, the Film Group continues its tradition of free admission and pre-show refreshments. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., allowing time for moviegoers to socialize before each screening, fostering conversations and connections among film lovers of all ages and backgrounds.
For film students, aspiring filmmakers, and cinema enthusiasts, CHFG serves as an invaluable resource, offering exposure to rarely screened classics and fostering appreciation for the art of filmmaking. The Film Group's winter/spring season demonstrates the organization's dedication to both preservation and innovation. While maintaining its focus on classic cinema, the technical upgrades ensure these historic films can be presented with modern clarity and precision.
Community members interested in attending screenings can find the complete schedule on the Woodmere Art Museum website (woodmereartmuseum.org). The museum's location in Chestnut Hill provides easy access for Philadelphia residents and suburban moviegoers alike.
As the Chestnut Hill Film Group enters its 53rd year, its combination of technical innovation, diverse programming, and community focus continues to attract both longtime supporters and new audiences to the weekly screenings. The organization's commitment to free admission ensures that these cultural offerings remain accessible to all members of the community, creating an inclusive space where the magic of cinema can be shared and celebrated together.
For additional information about upcoming screenings or to learn more about the Chestnut Hill Film Group, visit the Woodmere Art Museum website - Tuesday Nights At The Movies.
The winter/spring program starts with the 1950 classic "Sunset Boulevard" directed by Billy Wilder.
