Lincoln Theater 4 is proud to present Steven Spielberg’s latest epic, “Lincoln,” on Friday, Nov. 16. This movie, which was more than 10 years in the making, stars Daniel Day- Lewis as U.S. President Abraham Lincoln and Sally Field as Mary Todd. Evening shows and activities are planned for opening night, allowing the community named for Lincoln by Lincoln to come out and enjoy history as it comes alive on the big screen.
The star-studded cast also includes Tommy Lee Jones, Hal Holbrook and John Hawkes, the latter portraying Robert Latham. Robert Latham was an original developer of the town of Lincoln, working side by side with Lincoln during the plotting of the town, and the christening of Lincoln. Latham was also one of the primary developers of Lincoln College, and the town of Latham in Logan County bears his namesake. His portrait is located in the rotunda of the historic Logan County Courthouse, along with the other founding fathers.
The film is based on “Team of Rivals” The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln,” a biography by Doris Kearns Goodwin. The movie covers a four month period at the end of Lincoln’s life as the President attempts to get Congress to pass the 13th Amendment abolishing slavery. The film’s release coincides with the 150th anniversary the issuance of the Emancipation Proclamation.
The opening night of “Lincoln” in Lincoln, Ill. will be a grand red carpet affair, as movie goers attending the 5:00 p.m. show are greeted by Lincoln and the Lady, portrayed by Chris Hotz and Deborah Senger with Timeless Presentations. Timeless Presentations was created by Chris and Deb in 2008, originally as Abe and Mary Lincoln featuring walks, step-on tours, presentations and appearances as an avenue to provide historic entertainment for central Illinois. Together they share a striking resemblance to the famous couple, greeting guests as they enter the historic Lincoln Theater 4. Everyone is invited to dress in period attire, with photo opportunities available with President Lincoln and the First Lady along the red carpet, prior to their entrance into the theater to enjoy the movie. Lincoln and the Lady will also be on hand to greet guests and snap photos prior to the 8:00 p.m. showing as well.
Lincoln Theater 4 was built in 1923, having multiple owners over the years, until Lincoln native, David Lanterman purchased it in January 2011. The largest of the four theaters seats about 175 with the others approximately 130. Lanterman has been busy changing the theater technology from 35-millimeter film into a digital format, which was completed in March of 2012.
Patrons of the Nov.16 showing at Lincoln Theater 4 can receive that night information detailing the unique connection of Abraham Lincoln to the city of Lincoln, and obtain special gift offers courtesy of the Lincoln Heritage Museum and Postville Courthouse.
Lincoln Heritage Museum will also be handing out information regarding their upcoming event on November 28th. As a follow-up to the weekend premiere of the movie’s release, they are offering an opportunity to further explore the film’s historical merit and accuracy. Local Abraham Lincoln historians, Paul Beaver, Ron Keller and Anne Suttles will hold a panel discussion on Wednesday, Nov. 28th at 7 p.m. at the museum for a reflection and discussion of the “Lincoln” film. This question and answer session will give movie goers an opportunity to discuss and dissect this film masterpiece. That event is free and open to the public.
Show times of 2:00 p.m, 5;00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. will be highlighted in local media listings or Lincoln Theater 4 online at www.lincolntheater4.com. For additional information or questions, contact the Abraham Lincoln Tourism Bureau of Logan County at 217-732-8687 or online at admin@abe66.com.
