Mount Wilson Observatory: Matinees on the Mountain: Sci-Fi Silent Shorts

New this Season! On select Saturday afternoons this season, enjoy classic sci-fi, vintage silent films, and even a few family-friendly surprises in our 256-seat auditorium. Moviegoers can enjoy lunch at the Cosmic Cafe or picnic on the grounds, explore the Observatory’s rich history, and then settle in for a unique cinematic experience above the city! Movie snacks & drinks will be available for purchase.

Sci-Fi Silent Shorts with Joe Rinaudo and The Livonian Cinema: Come see a traveling show of silent films as they were shown over 100 years ago!

Mount Wilson Observatory and the Livonian Cinema welcome silent film historian and projectionist Joe Rinaudo, who will bring his 1909 hand-cranked 35-millimeter motion picture machine and a program of science fiction films, all from his personal collection. Movies will include Georges Méliès’ Trip to the Moon and Dave Fleischer’s Koko’s Earth Control, among other surprises. Ed Torres, house organist at the Bob Baker Marionette Theater, will provide music accompaniment on organ, and Gary Gibson will assist with film projection and the presentation of Magic Lantern slides prior to the show.

This matinee will include a brief intermission, during which movie-goers can see the projector up close. Don’t miss your chance to see these lovingly restored machines and movies up on the mountain!

The Livonian Cinema is a traveling movie theater that creates site specific events in collaboration with artists and communities throughout Southern California.