This past Sunday, October 6th, 2024, the Palace Theater hosted a special screening of The Addams Family as part of its ongoing Classics Series. The event began at 3:00 PM SLT and brought together a lively mix of attendees, including: students from Woodcrest University, faculty members, community leaders, and residents. The theater, usually a space for reflection and engagement with classic films, took on a different tone this weekend.
While the movie itself—a 1991 cult classic that celebrates the quirky, macabre Addams family—played on the big screen, the atmosphere inside the theater leaned more toward a social gathering than a focused film viewing. Laughter, chatter, and the occasional popcorn toss punctuated the event as students took advantage of the opportunity to connect with friends and enjoy the casual vibe of the screening. The audience, more preoccupied with mingling and catching up, seemed less engaged with the dark humor and iconic characters. There were few audible gasps or laughter at the oddball antics. For many, the movie served as background entertainment to an evening of lighthearted interaction. As the credits rolled, guests filed out quickly, the usual post-film buzz noticeably absent. There was scant discussion of The Addams Family itself as guests hurried off to their next evening’s plans.
Despite the lack of enthusiasm for the film, the Palace Theater Classics Series remains a gathering place for students and locals, creating a space for entertainment and community building. Though The Addams Family may not have captured the full attention of its audience, it certainly brought people together. The Classics Series at the Palace Theater remains an excellent opportunity to explore beloved films. With more screenings planned throughout the year, there will be plenty of chances to engage more deeply with future screenings—and perhaps toss a little less popcorn next time!
