Reel World

Heartbroken—If you're one of those cynical, unromantic types, then I'm afraid there's a reason to be even more cynical this coming holiday. Despite a certain amount of ballyhoo last week, the Alibi's Midnight Movie Madness screening of My Bloody Valentine scheduled for Feb. 13 and 14 has been cancelled. Though we had hoped to provide a romance-free zone this Valentine's Day with a showing of the classic 1981 slasher flick, Paramount Pictures determined that their last surviving print of the film was unsuitable for public viewing. (Would have been nice if they'd figured that out when we booked it a couple weeks ago.) Digging up these old film prints is a difficult and often frustrating task. It's downright scary to find out that these films may soon be unavailable. Seems that the print of My Bloody Valentine has been trashed over the years and Paramount just doesn't want to let it out the doors. It's a shame, and we're sorry to have raised the hopes of all you moviegoers looking for a good old-fashioned pickaxe murder to help coax your date into your lap this Valentine's Day. Looks like you're on your own now. Again, we're very sorry for the cancellation, but we'll be back in a week or so with a new Midnight Movie Madness offering.

Oscar Outing—Long-time local movie fans may remember the legendary annual Oscar Night Charity Gala at the old Lobo Theater. The good news is that the popular event will be back this year and (hopefully) better than ever. In addition to watching the Academy Awards broadcast on the big screen, you'll be able to dine at an exclusive Oscar night dinner buffet next door at Zinc Bistro. There will be movie-related door prizes and a silent auction of items donated by local merchants. You can dress casual or you can dress up, but you should note that there will be a costume contest and prizes will be awarded to the best movie/movie star outfits of the evening. Alibi film editor Devin D. O'Leary (that's me!) will be performing hosting duties, and heckling will be quietly tolerated. This special event will take place from 5 to 10 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 29. Tickets go on sale Feb. 13 at Louie's Rock 'n' Reels (located next door to the historic Lobo Theater in Nob Hill). Tickets are $20 for the event or $45 for event plus dinner. All proceeds will go to benefit the local chapter of P.A.W.S. (Pets Are Wonderful Support), a charity helping critically ill/HIV patients with pet care/companionship.