Matinees on the Mountain: Sci-Fi Silent Shorts

On select Saturday afternoons, enjoy classic sci-fi, vintage silent films, and even a few family-friendly surprises in Mount Wilson Observatory's 256-seat auditorium. Moviegoers can enjoy lunch at the Cosmic Cafe or picnic on the grounds, explore the Observatory's rich history, then settle in for a unique cinematic experience above the city!

Mount Wilson Observatory and the Livonian Cinema welcome silent film historian and projectionist Joe Rinaudo, who will bring his 1909 hand-cranked 35-millimeter motion picture machine and a program of science fiction films, all from his personal collection. Movies will include Georges Méliès’ Trip to the Moon and Dave Fleischer’s Koko’s Earth Control, among other surprises. Ed Torres, house organist at the Bob Baker Marionette Theater, will provide music accompaniment on organ, and Gary Gibson will assist with film projection and the presentation of Magic Lantern slides prior to the show.