Tonight there will be a special screening of "Romeo & Juliet" at the Castro Theatre in San Francisco.
The stunning screen adaptation of Shakespeare's well-known stage play was lensed by Florentine director - Franco Zeffirelli - and is a modern interpretation of the classic yet tragic love story of the two "star-crossed lovers."
Filmed on location in Italy, it is a refreshing passionate tale about the trials and tribulations of young love.
The Theatre owners have managed to secure a gorgeous archival print for the celebrated occasion.
Romeo & Juliet won four Academy Award nominations which include those for Best Picture, Director, Cinematography (Pasqualino De Santis), and Costume Design (Danilo Donati).
The tale, as told by the award-winning Italian Director, galvanized a generation on the date of its release.
Zeffirelli took a gamble when he cast the two lead roles with two young unknown and fresh-faced teenage actors - Olivia Hussey as the beautifuldark-haired Juliet - and 17-year old blue-eyed Leonard Whiting as Romeo.
Wisely, Zeffirelli exalted the exciting feuding scenes between hot-headed members of the opposing families which became an exciting highlight of the big budget feature.
Unknown to many, Laurence Olivier served as an uncredited off-screen narrator.
The lush poetic production features exquisite visuals and a memorable soundtrack that have stood the test of time. In fact, at this evening's screening, Connie Champage will perform Nina Rota's haunting theme accompanied by Boris Goldmund on the harp.
Ms. Hussey is scheduled for an interview with Jan Wahl at the Castro and is expected to discuss the making of the film as well as other career highlights.
Afterwards guests are invited to to meet and greet Ms. Hussey in the Castro Mezzanine for an autograph signing.
No Romeo in sight, though.
Tickets are a bit pricey.
Adults: $25.00
Youths: $12.50 (under 16)
See, Film Release clip, below...