News Summary

On March 30, 2025, Coronado’s Public Library will host a screening of Alfred Hitchcock’s iconic film ‘Lifeboat’ as part of the Student Classic Film Series, celebrating the 80th anniversary of WWII’s end. Admission is free, with a Q&A session featuring insights from Robert Shields and filmmakers after the screening.

Coronado Prepares for Vintage Film Experience

Hey there, film buffs! If you happen to be in Coronado, mark your calendars for an exciting cinematic event coming to the Coronado Public Library. On Sunday, March 30, 2025, the annual Student Classic Film Series will be rolling out the red carpet for the iconic film “Lifeboat,” directed by none other than the legendary Alfred Hitchcock. This screening is not just a trip down memory lane, but a celebration as it coincides with the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.

Details on the Screening

So, what’s the scoop? The event is set to kick off at 1 PM and will run until approximately 3:45 PM in the charming Winn Room of the library. The best part? Admission is completely free! That’s right—no tickets, just come in, grab a seat, and soak up some classic cinema vibes.

About “Lifeboat”

For those who may not know, “Lifeboat” has quite an intriguing premise. The film is set entirely on a modest 36-foot lifeboat adrift at sea, cleverly showcasing themes of leadership, authority, morality, and justice. Picture this: seven American and British survivors of a torpedoed ship, along with a German survivor from the U-boat that sank it, all trying to navigate their perilous situation. The ensemble cast boasts talented actors like Tallulah Bankhead and Hume Cronin, bringing their characters’ struggles and dynamics to life in an extraordinary way.

One of the most unique aspects of “Lifeboat” is its total lack of a musical score, a daring choice that really sets it apart in Hitchcock’s filmography. It’s actually based on a short story by John Steinbeck, and it keeps audiences on the edge of their seats without the typical audio cues built into many films of that time.

Documentary Highlight: “Robert Shields: My Life as a Robot”

But wait, there’s more! After enjoying the classic thrill of “Lifeboat,” you can dive into the heartwarming documentary “Robert Shields: My Life as a Robot.” Directed by the talented duo Mark and Christine Bonn, this film offers an intimate look at the life of Robert Shields, a renowned mime who rose to fame through his unique artistry. The documentary is a delightful journey that took a decade to complete after the Bonns met Shields at an art fair.

Featuring interviews with well-known figures like Tony Orlando and Mac Davis, the documentary paints a comprehensive picture of Shields’ life. From his initial stardom to his evolution into the visual arts, audiences will laugh and reflect as they get a glimpse into his transformative journey. The film also highlights his partnership with the late mime Lorene Yarnell, offering insights into the collaborative nature of performance arts.

Q&A Session with Shields

As if that wasn’t enough, the screening will be made even more special with a live Q&A session! Robert Shields, along with the Bonns, will engage with the audience, answering questions and sharing stories that bring the film to life. This is a great opportunity for fans to connect on a personal level with the artist behind the magic.

Conclusion

The Coronado Island Film Festival (CIFF) continues its commitment to celebrating significant films and engaging the community with these remarkable events. It’s a chance for everyone to mark their calendars and partake in the rich history of cinema. Be sure to look for more details and the complete schedule on the CIFF website and don’t forget to bring your friends along for this unforgettable experience!