Films at the Museum: "Only in Theaters" Screening

In 1938, two European immigrant brothers (who happened to be the cousins of famed movie mogul Carl Laemmle, founder of Universal Pictures) escaped fascist Germany right before World War II. They came to America and opened a movie theater. By the 1960s, the dynamic Laemmle family owned and operated 6 theaters in Los Angeles, developing an outsized influence on cinema. Over four generations, the Laemmle family has dedicated themselves to supporting, innovating, and elevating the art of filmmaking. Responsible for bringing foreign film to Los Angeles, popularizing independent films, documentary films, and their makers, the Laemmle Theatres’ impact on Hollywood and world cinema cannot be overstated. Today, in a world of conglomeration and streaming, as well as a pandemic, the Laemmle circuit of beloved theaters has faced unprecedented challenges. Filmed over two years, director Raphael Sbarge was given complete access, and editorial control, over this family's most turbulent time in 85 years of doing business.