Every month, we present Staff Picks at the Oriental Theatre - crazy classics, obscure delights, and cinematic masterpieces curated by the incredible Milwaukee Film and Oriental Theatre staff! Before each film screens, we're having a brief chat with each staff member about their selection. Next up in this series? Our incredible Chief Operations Officer, Kristen, telling you why you should obey and see They Live! Read on...
What's your name?
Kristen C. Heller.
What's your job title at Milwaukee Film? What does that entail?
I'm the Chief Operating Officer. That means I get to oversee the amazing teams that make our cinema, office, and film festival, run. I'm also the lead on all of the capital improvement projects done to the spaces we occupy, so I get to work with some great architects and construction leads.
What's your favorite place to sit in a movie theater?
Towards the back, usually on an aisle.
What's your favorite theater snack?
Popcorn, of course!
What movie did you pick?
They Live, which is a movie from 1988, written and directed by John Carpenter.
When did you first see said movie?
My freshman year of college (just shy of 20 years ago). It was the final screening to a series of screenings a group of students were showing, and it just happened to the only one I went to. I had a blast.
In ten words or less, tell us why we HAVE to see this movie!
It is insanely fun.
Okay - expand on that - why did you make this your staff pick?
Thematically, it has a very interesting story, that is often described as being a politically subversive blend of horror and science fiction. It deals with subliminal messages, mind control, and the desire to subvert those who try to shape and control the world we live in. So, it has these serious, intriguing themes, but then has this way about it that weaves fun throughout; for instance, the only way to see the world as it truly is, is to don a cool pair of 80s sunglasses, so our heroes wear them for the entire film, because why not. It also has one of the funniest/greatest 6-minute fight scenes of all time.
Any parting words you'd like to impart?
This film is screening on Friday, September 13th. I think anytime a Friday the 13th rolls around, you owe it to yourself to do something fun and out of the ordinary. This is one outing I'd recommend to take a chance on.
Extra special thanks to Kristen for taking the time to participate! See They Live Friday Septmber 13 - 9:30 PM at the Oriental Theatre. TICKETS AVAILABLE HERE.
Posted by: Milwaukee Film