Rejoice, lovers of cult films and darkened theaters: After a 10-year break, WMSE‘s once-mighty Friday Night Freak Show is returning to the Times Cinema. Hell yes.
The original incarnation of the midnight-movie series rose from the grave in 1997, bringing films like A Clockwork Orange, Reservoir Dogs, and The Boondock Saints to the cozy confines of the Times. After a nine-year run, however, it returned to the spectral plane in 2006, citing dwindling attendance and changing viewing habits. But now, 10 years later, WMSE General Manager Tom Crawford sees a perfect opportunity to reanimate the series.
“The culture of cinema, especially cult films, runs deep in Milwaukee” Crawford says in a press release. “WMSE’s Friday Night Freak Show is back and better than ever. The long history we share with the Times Cinema makes this more than perfect. We plan on making each movie an event with music and film and WMSE DJs.”
Not only will WMSE DJs be involved in the new monthly Freak Show, they’ll be responsible for choosing the films. The rebooted series will now begin at 8 p.m. (as opposed to the old midnight start-time), giving the DJs a chance to spin music and explain their film choices.
Things kick off Friday, August 19, when DJ Marty from Tuesdays With Marty presents the 1969 counter-culture classic Easy Rider. Tickets ($5) can be purchased here. Future films will be announced monthly at wmse.org.
“We are thrilled to bring the beloved tradition of the Friday Night Freak Show back to our neighborhood,” says Times Promotions Specialist Mark Strube. “Over the years, many customers have asked us if the FNFS would be returning one day. We heard you, and we’re excited to say, that day is here.”