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LAist Goes To The Movies: Nacho Libre
Even though the Arclight is modern-day movie-viewing perfection, sometimes you want to step back into the past and enjoy a film in a classic theatre.
LAist screened Jack Black's Nacho Libre at the Los Feliz gem Vista Theatre. Known for its unbelievable leg roo, the Vista is a hidden treasure in LA - one of the few last standing single screen movie palaces - their bargain price for showtimes before 6pm is $5.
A short walk from the Vermont and Sunset Metro station, The Vista opened in 1923 and was designed by legendary L.A. Smith. Over the years its shown all types of film, even porn for a short time in the 70s, what the The Vista lacks in its lobby or food choices (or even cash-only box office) it makes up in charm and spacious leg room.
Critics have argued that Jack Black can't carry a movie. They say he's great as a side-man, but wanting in the lead. Although perfectly cast in "School of Rock", Jack Black IS Nacho Libre. In a melding of the typical over-the-top acting by Black and typical heavy-handed stylings from director Jared Hess (Napolean Dynomite), Nacho Libre works - it's funny, sweet, and the little ninos are adorable.
Because the Vista is classy as hell they even ran a Looney Tunes reel of Speedy Gonzales before the feature just like they used to do in olden times. Nacho Libre, A-
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Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive before year-end will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
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