The New Beverly Cinema located on (you guessed it) Beverly Blvd in Los Angeles, California, has been owned by Quentin Tarantino since December of 2007. He's been quoted as saying, "As long as I'm alive, and as long as I'm rich, the New Beverly will be there, showing double features in 35mm." Obviously the man has a lot of love for the theater, as well as the formats he chooses to screen, as every feature is shown exclusively in 35mm (or 16mm if applicable). Tarantino has taken over primary programming duties since September of last year and today, on the 14th anniversary of the terrorist attack on the World Trade Center, he's chosen a double-feature that includes AIRPLANE! and USED CARS.
People will inevitably reflect on the horrific events that transpired, but Tarantino has been given a unique opportunity with the New Beverly. Films can reflect our society and dive into issues that everyone's talking about, but they can also provide a means of escape and connect strangers in a way that few art forms can. The genre that arguably connects an audience the most is comedy, and I think it's important some levity be offered for those who need it. At the end of the day, sometimes laughter is a well-needed slap (or two) to the face!