Classic Films Under the Stars

Film Noir on the Streets of Los Angeles

Our series of monthly screenings under the stars in Glendale’s Brand Park continues on Saturday, July 13 with Warner Bros.’ Crime Wave, starring Sterling Hayden, Gene Nelson, Phyllis Kirk and relative newcomer Charles Buchinsky (Charles Bronson), who had worked with director Andre de Toth previously, playing Igor in House of Wax.

Filmed largely on location, in addition to being a riveting crime thriller, the film also serves as a travelogue of downtown Los Angeles and Glendale c. 1952, including shots inside City Hall, Chinatown, the pet hospital near Flower on San Fernando Road in Glendale [now the Angelus Pet Hospital], downtown Glendale along Brand Blvd., and a chase through Atwater Village and over the Hyperion Viaduct.

The film is often compared to The Naked City, which is noted for it’s Neo-realistic depiction of a murder investigation conducted largely on the streets of New York City c. 1947. In both cases , using actual locations adds a gritty immediacy to the already sensationalistic subject matter.

Crime Wave will be presented on the expansive lawn of the historic Doctors House in Brand Park. Admission is free. Gates will open at 5:30 to allow time for picnicking and socializing before the program begins at 7:00 PM. Please bring blankets, lawn or beach chairs for seating.

The series is a presentation of Alex Film Society, The Glendale Historical Society, the Northwest Glendale Homeowners Association, Brand Associates and G&C Properties, with generous support provided by the City of Glendale’s Community Services & Parks.

Introduction by Archivist Marc Wanamaker

Founder of the Bison Archives, a well-respected repository documenting the history of the motion picture industry as well as greater Los Angeles, Marc will provide insight into the Los Angeles locations used for Crime Wave in the early 1950s, as well as the history of the Brand estate, which is now Brand Park.

Plus Bugs Bunny in Bugs and Thugs

Inspired by the earlier 1946 cartoon Racketeer Rabbit, Bugs becomes embroiled with gangsters pulling off a bank heist, and must turn the tables on the crooks after being taken hostage.

Scenes From Crime Wave

Directions to Brand Park and The Doctors’ House

In Northwest Glendale, follow Grandview Ave. up the hill and into the park. Grandview can be accessed from San Fernando Rd., W. Glenoaks Blvd. and Kenneth Rd. Once in the park, follow the signs to the Doctors House or Brand Motorway. Note that vehicular access ends at the red barrier shown on the map below.