🛣️ Road Trip! 20th Century Theater

I have a deep appreciation for vintage movie theaters and murals. Growing up in the 1970s and 80s, my local cinema was The Loews Paradise in The Bronx, NYC. This enchanting venue created the ambiance of an outdoor villa courtyard beneath a starlit sky. I cherished the starry ceiling while enjoying some of my favorite films from that era. Now residing in Ohio, I often discover similar classic theaters that occasionally and not often enough screen timeless films. While trying to burn off some of the delightful ice cream from Aglamesis Bro's in Cincinnati, I stumbled upon a massive classic film mural just a block away. Is that Rosemary Clooney? Indeed it is! To my astonishment, the mural was situated above a theater marquee. The theater? The 20th Century Theater.

The 20th Century Theater stands as a charming historic landmark in Cincinnati, Ohio, designed by Fred W. Stritzel and inaugurated in 1941 as an opulent movie house. The inaugural film was Blood and Sand, featuring Rita Hayworth and Tyrone Power. Today, it serves as a versatile venue for a range of events, catering, and concerts. In 1993, it earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places.


Photos Courtesy of www.the20thcenturytheater.com

As I approached, I admired the stunning Neoclassical Moderne architecture. Getting closer, I spotted a mural of Sophia Loren right next to the marquee.

Turning to the left, I found an even more exciting mural in the parking lot, featuring iconic figures like Humphrey Bogart, Marilyn Monroe, Judy Garland, Sidney Poitier, James Dean, and John Wayne.

If you venture around back, there's another mural of Sylvester Stallone and Harrison Ford, plus a tribute to film critics Siskel and Ebert.

During my brief visit, I admired the theater's exterior and caught a glimpse of the lobby through a closed door, which displayed vintage movie posters. I had hoped for classic film screenings, but it seems they primarily focus on hosting events now.

I couldn't help but snap a few photos before departing, shaking my head in disbelief. While the theater leans towards profit-driven events, I felt grateful to discover such a beautifully preserved treasure.

As I strolled away, I pondered the mural and why a local Cincinnati figure wasn't represented on the facade. But as the legendary Doris Day once sang, Que Sera, Que Sera! I think I might need more ice cream! 😄

Aglamesis Bro's

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