Weekend Guide
Some of the hottest events in Halifax this weekend, as suggested by readers. Know something we should add? Post a …
What about Bill?
By Nicole Trask | Jul 26, 2011Every summer I tell myself that I am going to partake in the alFresco filmFesto and every summer it slips through my fingertips. But not this time! Especially, once I learned that it is officially the Summer of Murray. Meaning, the good folks at Atlantic Film Festival have organized this year’s festival to be a quirky slew of Bill Murray classics screened on the waterfront boardwalk. Bill Murray had me hooked the first time I watched him shock that airhead in one of the opening scenes of Ghostbusters, and it’s been pure infatuation ever since. So, it was an absolute no-brainer to hop on my bike last Friday night with a gaggle of friends and peddle down to the waterfront for the opening alFresco screening of Meatballs, circa 1979.
Organizers have launched a campaign to try and get the notorious actor to visit our fair shores (hilariously entitled – Bill, will you MURRAY us?). Their goal to garner over 2000 likes on Facebook was achieved last week, but so far it has been unconfirmed as to whether Mr. Murray has been reached. I’m dying to know if there’s a chance he might actually make an appearance. How cool would that be?
Celebrity sightings aside, on a mild evening, an outdoor screening is a delightful way to spend your time. My friends and I managed to get a spot right up front to spread our blanket out near the large inflatable screen and get comfy. I noticed that there were reserved seats available but bringing your own works just fine, too. There’s also an opportunity to win one of I Heart Bikes lovely city bicycles as well as a trip for two anywhere in North America, so I was sure to fill out a ballot. Stretched out on the boardwalk, watching a young Bill Murray keeping the rival Camp Mohawk on their toes, made me feel happy as a clam. Exactly the way I want to feel in summer! Ahhhh, simple pleasures…
Murray memorabilia is cropping up that I wouldn’t mind getting my hands on. Green t-shirts with that iconic face smirking away are apparently selling like crazy. Additionally, Argyle Fine Art and Inkwell Boutique have Summer of Murray postcards for sale designed by artist Soraya Etemad (a golden stencil of the forlorn looking actor gazing off into the distance).
Taking inspiration from Groundhog Day, I might have to make a few repeat appearances to the alFresco screenings this summer. Viewing the beloved and side-splitting flicks in an outdoor venue is enough of an attraction for me. If there’s a chance to catch a glimpse of Bill Murray himself, well, that would be the cherry on top of an already delicious sundae.
- Nicole
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AlFresco has definitely made my top 10 list of summer things to do! An amazing evening spent overlooking the harbour, cozied in a blanket, and enjoying another Bill Murray masterpiece!
Thanks for the story