Celebrate New Year’s with Exciting Films Playing in L.A.
As 2023 draws to a close, cinema enthusiasts in Los Angeles can look forward to a variety of films celebrating the New Year. Among the most anticipated is Josh Safdie’s “Marty Supreme,” which follows the journey of Marty Mauser, a shoe salesman in 1950s New York who dreams of becoming a champion table tennis player. The film has generated significant buzz, in part due to the energetic promotional efforts of its star, Timothée Chalamet. Critics have praised Chalamet for his commitment to challenging roles that reflect his own ambitions.
In a review, Amy Nicholson highlighted the film’s engaging spirit, stating, “The movie’s moxie makes it impossible not to get caught up in Marty’s crusade.” “Marty Supreme” is one of several films arriving in theaters just in time for the festive season, showcasing a range of themes and storytelling styles.
Notable Releases This Week
Another significant film this week is Jim Jarmusch’s “Father Mother Sister Brother,” which recently won the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival. This enigmatic film, featuring a star-studded cast including Adam Driver and Cate Blanchett, explores familial relationships across three different narratives set in New Jersey, Dublin, and Paris. In his assessment, Tim Grierson noted the film’s melancholic undertow, inviting viewers to delve into the complexities within guarded families.
Additionally, Daniel Blumberg, an Oscar-winning composer, discussed his work on “The Testament of Ann Lee,” a film by Mona Fastvold that examines the founder of the Shaker religious movement. Blumberg emphasized the importance of music in the film, as singing and dancing were integral to the Shakers’ spiritual practices.
New Year’s Eve at the Movies
While holiday films often evoke Christmas, several cinematic gems capture the essence of New Year’s Eve. Kathryn Bigelow’s “Strange Days,” a techno-thriller set during the last days of 1999, will be screened at the New Beverly on December 29. The film climaxes with a massive New Year’s Eve party in downtown Los Angeles, making it a fitting choice for the season.
On January 1, 2024, Paul Thomas Anderson’s “Phantom Thread” will be shown in 70mm at the Aero Theatre. This film features a poignant New Year’s Eve moment when fashion designer Reynolds Woodcock, played by Daniel Day-Lewis, races to reunite with his muse after a misunderstanding.
Other notable screenings include “Boogie Nights,” also by Anderson, which will be shown in 35mm at Vidiots on December 31. The film features a memorable New Year’s party sequence that transitions from 1979 to 1980, highlighting the complexities of relationships and ambition.
Additionally, Billy Wilder’s “The Apartment” will be screened at the New Beverly and the American Cinematheque’s Los Feliz Theater, showcasing Jack Lemmon and Shirley MacLaine in a story that reaches a turning point on New Year’s Eve.
Fans of romantic comedies can enjoy “When Harry Met Sally…” at the New Beverly, which features two iconic New Year’s Eve scenes. The film, starring Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal, will have multiple screenings between December 30 and January 1, offering viewers a chance to reflect on love and friendship.
For those seeking something different, Doug Liman’s “Go” will screen at Vidiots on December 31. While not explicitly a New Year’s film, it captures the chaotic energy of holiday partying through its intertwining storylines and relatable characters.
As the year comes to a close, theaters across Los Angeles are embracing tradition by screening classic works from the Marx Brothers. Vidiots will feature “A Night at the Opera” and “Duck Soup,” while the Aero will show “Animal Crackers” on New Year’s Day, ensuring that audiences can enjoy timeless humor during this festive season.
In conclusion, Los Angeles offers a diverse lineup of films for New Year’s celebrations, ranging from avant-garde storytelling to classic comedies. Whether viewers are interested in new releases or beloved classics, the city’s theaters provide ample opportunities to ring in the New Year with cinematic flair.
