Cookeville Depot showing free classic films Fridays in October

COOKEVILLE – The beloved extraterrestrial with a glowing fingertip will charm moviegoers this Friday during Classic Cinema at the Depot.

“This is an opportunity for families to catch a free classic film on the Cookeville Depot grounds while enjoying the cooler fall temperatures under the stars,” said Beth Thompson, Cookeville museums manager. “We don’t show current blockbusters; we show the oldies.”

The series, presented by Cookeville Leisure Services, features a classic film each Friday in October at 7 p.m., starting with 1982’s “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” starring Henry Thomas and Drew Barrymore. It’s the story of a boy who befriends an alien who was left behind on Earth and wants to “phone home.” Admission is free.

Other movies to be shown include “Charade” (1963, Cary Grant and Audrey Hepburn) on Oct. 9; “The Inspector General” (1949, Danny Kaye) on Oct. 16; “Batman: The Movie” (1966, Adam West and Burt Ward) on Oct. 23; and “House on Haunted Hill” (1959, Vincent Price) on Oct. 30.

Thompson hopes those who enjoyed past Summer Cinema at the Depot movie offerings will also enjoy this fall version of the series.

“With summer’s busy schedules, we thought we’d try something different this year,” Thompson said. “Also, with the shorter days, we can start the films at 7 p.m. instead of 8 p.m., which is a better fit for families with kids.”

Attendees should bring lawn chairs and blankets. Popcorn and drinks will be available for $1 each. Social distancing will be observed, and masks are encouraged.

The Cookeville Depot Museum is located at 116 W. Broad St. For more information, call 528-8570. 

“With the light from the Cream City sign shining down and a film featuring the matinee idols of yesteryear, you’ll feel transported to a simpler time,” Thompson said. “Right now, we need that more than ever.”

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