The Blob Oozes into Film in the Fog at the Presidio

Presidio of San Francisco (September 8, 2003) — The San Francisco Film Society and the Presidio Trust present the 2nd Annual Film in the Fog outdoor film and music program, to be held on the lawn of the Main Post Theatre, 99 Moraga Avenue, in the Presidio. The free, all-ages picnic, concert, and movie screening on Saturday, October 4 at 5 pm, will feature the campy ’50s science fiction classic, The Blob, starring Steve McQueen. Last year’s event was attended by an estimated 1,500 people.

The independently produced thriller tells the story of a rebellious teenager who leads the fight to save his small town from being swallowed up by a gelatinous invader from outer space. The action climaxes in a truly marvelous scene, utilizing ingenious special effects in which the monster devours an entire diner. The Blob was made at the height of the red-scare era, but the filmmakers denied that there was a political subtext, even though the ever-redder blob insidiously attacked sacred American institutions. The movie launched the careers of antihero Steve McQueen and composer Burt Bacharach, and has become a cult classic with an enthusiastic following of websites and sci-fi fans. The Blob will be screened at 7 pm, preceded by a vintage 1959 newsreel and the classic 1953 Chuck Jones cartoon, Duck Dodgers in the 24 1/2th Century.

Visitors to Film in the Fog should bring lawn chairs and blankets, and arrive early to reserve a spot to enjoy live music. The SuperSonic Saxes and a brass quintet of the Air National Guard Band of the West Coast will entertain visitors with an outdoor performance of American standards beginning at 5 pm. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. The historic Main Post Theatre will be open for public tours at 5 pm.

For additional information go to www.atthepresidio.org or www.sffs.org, or call (415) 561-5500. If you need a photo or would like a screener tape, please contact Hilary Hart at publicity@sffs.org or (415) 561.5022.