This Coming Weekend at the Packard Campus (August 23-24, 2024)

Who couldn’t use a hero? From the comic pages they came to entertain us on the big screen. This month, the Packard Campus shows some of our favorite comic book creations who got brought to life in the movies.

Ron Perlman as title character lifts a mighty big gun. — “Hellboy” (2004)

Hellboy (Revolution Studios, 2004)

Friday, August 23 @ 7:30 PM

At the end of WWII, Nazi soldiers conjure a baby demon, who is subsequently rescued and raised by the Allies. Despite his dark origins, Hellboy (Ron Perlman) joins the Bureau of Paranormal Research and Defense, teaming with other unique and powerful creatures to protect America from the forces of evil. Directed by Guillermo del Toro (The Shape of Water, Pan’s Labyrinth). Color, 122 min. (35mm)

Bold yellow and red graphics and, in front, a pensive looking Colleen Moore, the film's star — “Ella Cinders” (1926)

Ella Cinders (First National Pictures, 1926)

Saturday, August 24 @ 2:00 PM

This archetype of 1920s comedy was the first feature-length adaptation of a comic strip! After winning a beauty contest, Ella Cinders (Colleen Moore) leaves behind an abusive family to seek stardom in Hollywood. Added to the National Film Registry in 2013. Featuring a new digital restoration made from the only surviving tinted 16mm print. Live musical accompaniment by Andrew Simpson. Black & white, 75 min.

Sam J. Jones as titular hero as Ming looks on with menace from over his shoulder. — “Flash Gordon” (1980)

Flash Gordon (Universal Pictures, 1980)

Saturday, August 24 @ 7:30 PM

Evil alien emperor Ming the Merciless targets Earth for destruction! Who can stop this tyrant and protect the universe? Flash! He’ll save every one of us! Based on the King Features space adventures by Alex Raymond, this campy cult classic inspired a generation of filmmakers and comic book artists alike. British rock band Queen composed and performed the electrifying score. Color, 110 min. (35mm)

Buster Crabbe and other actors from the classic sci-fi serial pictured among robots and rockets. — “Flash Gordon” (1936)

ALSO THIS MONTH…

Flash Gordon (Universal Pictures, 1936)

At every screening during the month of August, the Packard will show an installment from the 1936 Buster Crabbe serial “Flash Gordon”! Will Flash and Dale survive the latest peril inflicted on them by Ming! You’ll have to keep comin’ back to find out! This “Flash” was added to the National Film Registry in 1996. To learn more about the serial, see this link.

For more information on LC screenings, see this link.

Who couldn’t use a hero? From the comic pages they came to entertain us on the big screen. This month, the Packard Campus shows some of our favorite comic book creations who got brought to life in the movies.

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