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The brainchild of producer Ely Landau, The American Film Theatre was a bold and revolutionary enterprise dedicated to the belief that a great segment of the movie audience do not want "to escape into sex and violence but want to think and feel."

The great talents of Broadway and Hollywood were enticed to join him and the result was fourteen magnificently crafted film productions based on the best plays of the 20th century. They represent a treasure trove of provocative stories, brilliant cinematography, and towering performances from the most important film directors and biggest stars of the period.

Long unavailable, all fourteen American Film Theatre productions have now been rediscovered, restored, and are ready for a new generation of theatre and film lovers.

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Rhinoceros

The film version of Eugene Ionesco's absurdist play tells of a French city where the citizens begin to turn mysteriously into rhinoceroses. Zero Mostel creates his Tony-winning Broadway role. Includes the marvelous Karen Black. more info

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The Maids

Two maids, in a sinister bond of roleplaying, take turns acting out an abusive employer-servant relationship. Adapted from Jean Genet's absurdist play, itself inspired from a true life case.

more info

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Luther

John Osborne's play is a fascinating and powerful psychological study of the Augustinian monk Martin Luther, examining his central role in the birth of Protestantism and revolt against the Roman Catholic Church.

more info

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The Iceman Cometh

Considered the definitive film version of one of Eugene O'Neill's greatest plays, this simple tale of a birthday celebration at a saloon takes a devastating look at disillusionment and dashed hopes. more info

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Butley

Alan Bates turns his Tony-winning role into one of his greatest film performances as a lecturer who experiences a truly awful day. more info

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