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In a galaxy far, far away, Case Western Reserve University’s first Science Fiction Film Marathon occurred in 1976.
Sponsored by the CWRU Film Society, this weekend of science fiction movies, trailers and surprises began its tradition in Strosacker Auditorium following a modest announcement from the university’s Office of Public Information.
“Friday, January 30 is the day the earth stands still, worlds collide and time stands still for Cleveland’s first 24-Hour Science Fiction Film Marathon…” the statement declared.
The weekend kicked off that Friday with a viewing of The Day the Earth Stood Still and ended with a screening of Dark Star on Saturday. Other movies in the original lineup included West World, Fahrenheit 451 and Time Machine.
In the nearly five decades since the marathon began, an impressive variety of films have been shown—including The Lost World, The Walking Dead, Night of the Living Dead, Avatar, Total Recall and Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home—while members of the Case Western Reserve and Cleveland communities and individuals from around Ohio and the U.S. have taken part.
KRASH, a local artist from Conneaut, Ohio, demonstrated his enjoyment of the annual event by creating a mural, which was revealed during the 25th anniversary in 2000. Before its grand reveal, 24 sections included in the mural were printed on T-shirts and sold at the marathon.
Typically, the marathon takes place every spring semester, starting the Friday after the first day of classes. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, this year’s festivity was rescheduled for April 22-24.
The 47th Annual Sci-Fi Marathon is scheduled to kick off at 8 p.m. Friday, April 22, with a viewing of the Oscar-winning film Dune, starring Timothée Chalamet, Oscar Isaac, Jason Momoa and Zendaya (among others). Space Battleship Yamato, The Iron Giant and Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith also join the lineup of films that sci-fi lovers can expect throughout the weekend.
Food from local dining options will also be available for attendees.
Presale tickets will be sold in the Tinkham Veale University Center from Monday, April 18, through Friday, April 22. A $25 pass will be available to CWRU faculty, staff and students, and employees of University Circle businesses; other community members will be able to purchase passes for $30.
More information regarding the 47th annual Sci-Fi Film Marathon is available at the CWRU Film Society website.