Members of "The Last Picture Show" cast and crew were in a nostalgic mood Wednesday night about the contributions of Gary Essert and Gary Abrahams to the film scene in Los Angeles.
The two men were remembered at the kickoff of a retrospective honoring their contributions to the American Cinematheque and as founders of the Los Angeles International Film Exposition (Filmex).
"This brings back a lot of fond memories. The Garys were always great supporters of 'The Last Picture Show.' Gary even built the projection room at (production company) BBS. So, he had a hand in this from the beginning," said filmmaker Peter Bogdanovich. "I just wish they could be here tonight to share in the celebration."
Bogdanovich and actors Jeff Bridges and Sam Bottoms spoke for the launch of the Cinematheque's "More Than a Festival: A Tribute to Gary Essert, Gary Abrahams & Filmex" at the Directors Guild of America.
"The Last Picture Show" reunion hit a special note as it was the opening night presentation at the first Filmex in 1971.
Following a screening of "Last Picture Show," the actors and filmmakers joined for a discussion remembering the film and the early days of Filmex.
In addition to the film's principals, the start of the five-day, 15-film retrospective also brought together dozens of ex-staffers and volunteers. The memory of Essert and Abrahams, who both died late last year, was recalled fondly , emotionally and with humor.
City proclamation
The night featured the presentation of a City of L.A. proclamation citing Essert and Abrahams' contribution, vision and expansion of the filmgoing experience.
More recently, Essert and Abrahams created the American Cinematheque, which hosts the annual Moving Picture Ball and a monthly series at the Directors Guild of America. The search committee of that org is expected to name a new artistic director by May.
The tribute series continues through Sunday at the DGA.
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