Boston’s Brattle theater, Kendall Square Cinema & Somerville Cine-Club Usher in the New Year with Film Classics and Bold New Visions
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A vibrant slate of cinematic offerings is set to captivate Boston audiences this January, with repertory screenings, new releases, and tributes to departed screen legends taking center stage at the Brattle Theatre, Kendall Square Cinema, and Somerville Cine-Club. From the anarchic comedy of the Marx brothers to gripping contemporary dramas and beloved 1970s blockbusters, local film enthusiasts have a wealth of options to explore.
Marx Brothers Marathon Kicks Off the new Year at the Brattle
The Brattle Theatre will ring in 2025 with its annual New Year’s Day tradition: a marathon dedicated to the comedic genius of the Marx Brothers. As the theater has done for years, the event promises an all-day celebration featuring Groucho, Harpo, Chico, and Zeppo. This year’s lineup includes four classic comedies from the brothers’ Paramount era: “The Cocoanuts” (1929), “Animal Crackers” (1930), “Monkey Business” (1931), and “Duck Soup” (1933). “Duck Soup,” widely considered the Marx Brothers’ masterpiece, will bookend the marathon with both matinee and evening screenings, allowing audiences to experience Groucho and Harpo’s iconic mirror routine in all its glory. “Whether you’re a dyed-in-the-wool Marxist or just looking to laugh through your post-New Year’s hangover delirium, you’re not likely to be disappointed,” a Brattle spokesperson quipped.
kendall Square Cinema Celebrates 1970s Blockbusters
Kendall Square Cinema is offering a double dose of 1970s cinematic history. On Tuesday, the theater will screen Richard Donner’s groundbreaking “Superman” (1978), the original blockbuster adaptation of the iconic comic book. The following day, Wednesday, the focus shifts to Stanley Kubrick’s controversial and influential adaptation of Anthony Burgess’ “A Clockwork Orange” (1971).
Despite their vastly different tones and subject matter, both films left an indelible mark on popular culture. As one observer noted, the films are instantly recognizable for their iconic visuals – Superman’s cape and tights versus Alex DeLarge’s white jumpsuit and bowler – their memorable music – John Williams’ rousing score versus Wendy Carlos’ synth interpretations of Beethoven – and their unforgettable performances, featuring Christopher Reeve and Malcolm McDowell, respectively. Together, they represent the diverse cultural landscape of the 1970s.
Somerville Cine-Club Offers Sci-Fi Delights and a Retro Treasure
On Thursday, the Somerville Cine-Club will host a free screening at the Somerville public Library central branch.The featured film is Roger Vadim’s “Barbarella” (1968), a campy and visually striking sci-fi epic adapted from a risque French comic book. Starring Jane Fonda as the titular spacefaring heroine, the film follows an interstellar voyage of sexual discovery. While not considered a masterpiece on the scale of “2001,” “Barbarella” retains an undeniable charm and aesthetic appeal.
The screening will be preceded by a rare treat: an original, silent, black-and-white 8mm print of a condensed version of “Star Wars” (1977), a relic from the era of home movie sales before the advent of VHS.
Brattle Honors Lost Screen Giants
Acknowledging the passing of numerous film industry luminaries in 2025, the Brattle will launch a “Cinematic Tribute” series on Wednesday.The series will begin with a 35mm print of Francis Ford coppola’s “The Godfather” (1972), frequently enough cited as one of the greatest American films ever made, and featuring a memorable early performance by Diane Keaton. It will be followed by Perry Henzell’s “The Harder They come” (1972), a genre-defining crime film starring reggae legend Jimmy Cliff. The Brattle encourages audiences to “watch this space next week” for further additions to the series, offering a chance to revisit classic films and celebrate the legacies of beloved actors and filmmakers.
