On August 8, 2024, the San Francisco International Film Festival (SFIFF) kicked off its highly anticipated “Golden Age of Cinema” retrospective, a celebration of the classics that defined the film industry. This year, the festival focused on reviving some of Hollywood’s most iconic films from the 1930s to the 1950s, giving new audiences the opportunity to experience these masterpieces on the big screen once again. The event was held at the historic Castro Theatre, one of the city’s most beloved venues for cinematic events.
The festival’s opening night featured a restored 4K version of Gone with the Wind (1939), which drew a packed house of film enthusiasts, many of whom had never seen the film on the big screen. Film critics, including Sarah Heller, praised the restoration for its remarkable clarity and color accuracy, calling it “a monumental achievement that allows modern audiences to see the film in a new light, retaining the magic of the original while making it more accessible.” Along with the screening, the event featured a panel discussion about the legacy of Gone with the Wind in cinema history, with scholars and filmmakers reflecting on both its cultural impact and its controversial portrayal of race.
SFIFF Director, Lisa Green, shared her excitement about bringing the classics back to the forefront. “Our mission is to celebrate the art of cinema in all its forms, and these timeless films represent the very best of filmmaking craftsmanship. With advancements in technology, it’s a privilege to restore and share these films with a new generation,” Green remarked.
Other films in the “Golden Age” series included Citizen Kane (1941), Casablanca (1942), and Singin’ in the Rain (1952), each drawing large crowds of both seasoned cinephiles and younger audiences curious to experience the magic of these legendary films. Film historian and curator, Jack Morrow, noted the importance of reviving these classics: “Classic films are the foundation of modern cinema. By revisiting these works, we can learn about the evolution of filmmaking and the social issues of their time.”
Throughout the festival, various film seminars and workshops were held, where attendees could engage with experts on topics like the role of women in early Hollywood, the golden age of musicals, and the rise of film noir. For many, this was a rare opportunity to learn about film history while celebrating the artistry that continues to influence the movie industry today.
As the festival continues through the month, its celebration of cinematic history has sparked conversations about the importance of preserving classic films and making them accessible for modern audiences. The success of Golden Age of Cinema proves that, even in a world dominated by streaming services and digital releases, the magic of classic films remains alive and well in the hearts of film lovers everywhere.
