On its 31st and last birthday, the Haight Street independent cinema has chosen to mark its closing with an apropos 1970s black comedy that toys with death.
"Harold and Maude" is one of the theater's most popular films, according to the movie house. Morbid teenager Harold, who drives a Jaguar converted into a hearse, stages suicides and hangs around cemeteries, will learn to appreciate life from the high-spirited 79-year-old Maude.
The Red Vic Movie House first opened its doors on Jan. 25, 1980 at its original location at Haight and Belvedere streets as California's only worker-owner and operated cinema, according to the theater. About 10 years ago, it moved to its present location on Haight Street between Cole and Shraeder streets.
Tonight's sold-out shows will begin at 7:15 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. and will give patrons one last opportunity to sink into a classic in the movie house's legendary couches.
