PARADISE THEATRE presents THE DAMNED

THIS APRIL- The Paradise is going back to basics with nine films that tell thee story of our founding decade: the drama, the depression, and the design. The Paradise Presents DIRTY DECO: an aesthetic journey through the 1930s. From subversive pre-code productions, to later works that recapture the sordid underbelly of the era from a contemporary political lens- all through the sheen of glorious art deco. Step back in time and join us in Paradise as we travel back to the dirty decade...

HE WAS SOON TO BECOME THE SECOND MOST POWERFUL MAN IN NAZI GERMANY. For the grand finale of our series- we are proud to present Luchino Visconti's epic melodrama that captures the era in decadence and decay- The Paradise Presents: 1969's THE DAMNED!

The most savagely subversive film by the iconoclastic auteur Luchino Visconti employs the mechanics of deliriously stylized melodrama to portray Nazism’s total corruption of the soul. In the wake of Hitler’s ascent to power, the wealthy industrialist von Essenbeck family and their associates—including the scheming social climber Friedrich (Dirk Bogarde), the conniving matriarch Sophie (Ingrid Thulin), and the cruelly deviant heir Martin (Helmut Berger, memorably donning Marlene Dietrich–like drag in his breakthrough role)—descend into a self-destructive spiral of decadence, greed, perversion, and all-consuming hatred as they vie for power, over the family business and over one another. The heightened performances and Visconti’s luridly expressionistic use of Technicolor conjure a garish world of decaying opulence in which one family’s downfall comes to stand for the moral rot of a nation.

Door tickets are available for purchase on the day of screening. Refunds can be requested up to 12 hours before the screening. All refunds must be requested and processed through eventbrite.

Looking for more deco? These films pair perfectly with our newly reopened Bar Biltmore! Join us Thursdays through Saturdays in our intimate narrow speakeasy-style bar accented with antique brass and Art Deco patterned tiles. Bespoke leather stools and cushions beside our wide windows offer luxuriant spots to sit, chat, and drink. The seasonal outdoor patio balcony overlooks Bloor Street West and our landmark Paradise sign. The views towards downtown and the crisp design make this cocktail bar the perfect place for a drink before a dinner, a show, or an intimate setting for a raucous celebration lasting until the small hours. Visit barbiltmore.com to reserve a table!