Matinee

Set against the backdrop of the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, this film follows a young boy named Gene Loomis who finds solace in the world of cinema amidst the looming threat of nuclear war. The story unfolds as a flamboyant filmmaker, played by John Goodman, arrives in town to premiere his latest horror film, creating a buzz among the local community. Directed by Joe Dante, the movie cleverly intertwines the tension of the era with the escapism of B-movie horror, offering a nostalgic look at the power of film. While it didn’t receive major awards, it remains a cult favorite for its unique blend of comedy and historical context. For those interested, it can be viewed for free on Soap2day.