The man who said, “Nobody trusts anyone, or why did they put tilt on a pinball machine?” will be honored with a retrospective of his arguably, finest films.
Steve McQueen’s career ran the gamut, from jewel-thief to poker player to race car driver, but his real life was all about martial arts (he was a pall 
bearer at Bruce Lee’s funeral), racing motorcycles and cars. His untimely demise in 1980 (due to -of all things!- mesothelioma from his asbestos-lined helmets and racing suits) at 50 years old, was a shock to all of his fans -and a blow to all things cool. Although he died almost 30 years ago, film-goers can’t seem to get enough McQueen. I don’t blame them, either. Coolness is in short supply these days.
Starting May 20, The Film Society of Lincoln Center will present twelve of McQueen’s best performances during their mini-film festival dedicated to “The King of Cool.” You can see The Cincinatti Kid, The Great Escape and The Thomas Crown Affair (my McQueen favorite) and many other films. And, for your added enjoyment, The Film Society invited a few co-stars, family members and directors to speak before several selected films. For example, on May 20 at 7 pm, Candice Bergen will be presentingThe Sand Pebbles. If you’ve never seen McQueen on the big screen, here’s your chance.
The festival runs from May 20th to the 26th at The Walter Reade Theatre, upper-level of The Film Society of Lincoln Center, 165 W. 65th Street. Each screening will set you back $11, but who can really put a price on cool?
For more information on schedule and tickets:
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