Local Spotlight – Enzian Theater’s Special Programs

If you don’t know about the Enzian, WTF?  Maitland’s Enzian Theater is one of the best aspects of Orlando, if you’re a film geek.  The theater hosts the annual Florida Film Festival and, throughout the remainder of the year, hosts many independent and art house films.

In addition to their regular fare, Enzian also hosts a series of special themed programs.  Of late, many of the special programs have had a decidedly geeky focus.  The special programs feature four themes:

• Popcorn Flicks in the Park:  This series of outdoor films are shown for free in Winter Park’s Central Park along Park Avenue.  Personally a little warm right now for my tastes, but if you can stand the warm muggy July evenings, the Enzian will be featuring The Great Muppet Caper on Thursday, July 12th at 8:00pm.
• Cult Classics:  Twice per month, the Enzian will host a cult favorite – a movie that maintains a certain niche popularity despite its age.  While the upcoming slate of cult films wouldn’t necessarily fall into the “geek” territory, I am a fan of The Coen Brothers’ O Brother, Where Art Thou? which will be the featured movie on July 31st.
• Wednesday Night Pitcher Show:  Again, a little too warm this time of year for my tastes to spend outside (with Florida weather, I usually only leave the relative comfort of GGHQ three months out of the year – like a reverse bear), but grab some beers and watch a classic film on the lawn of the Enzian for the free Wednesday Night Pitcher Show.  Celebrating Independence Day, Enzian will be featuring the classic movie JAWS at 8pm.

• KidFest:  If you’re free on a Summer afternoon, check out the family-friendly KidFest program.  These movies aren’t just lame kiddie fare, but some iconic movies that appeal to those of all ages.  On July 26th, check out the ‘80s classic The Goonies.  If Anime is more your flavor, the following week Enzian will host Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away.

Refer to the Enzian’s website for more information on their special programs as well as possibly joining the Enzian Film Society to help support these free (or pretty darn cheap) films.