“Free Movies After Dark,” the series of classic family films that had become a summer tradition in Hartford parks, will not be held this year, a victim of the city’s budget cuts. When the city’s Marketing, Events and Cultural Affairs Division was dismantled, “Movies After Dark” went with it.
Brett Broesder, a spokesman for Mayor Luke Bronin, said shutting down MECA saved the city $270,000 a year, which included two positions and all MECA programming. The movie series cost $19,000 a year, which was spent on outdoor screens and video ($4,655), fliers and brochures ($3,750), media production ($1,350), consulting and public relations ($7,500) and other miscellaneous expenses ($1,745), says Broesder.
Bronin told The Courant that he regretted the loss of MECA and its programs, adding “we are working with potential funders and arts philanthropies to see that the city remains a center for the arts and culture.”
Riverfront Recapture helped to present the film series, but the group’s events director, Josh Urrutia, says they don’t have the budget to do outdoor films without MECA funding. He called the series “a very desired event” and said Riverfront Recapture is considering reviving it in the future.
“I don’t know about this year, though,” he said.
Hartford parents looking for free kids movies can go to Spotlight Theatres at 39 Front St. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at 10 a.m. through Aug. 11. Also Bow Tie Cinemas at 330 New Park Ave. offers free family films on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 10 a.m. from June 21 to Aug. 17. More cheap or free movies in Connecticut here, and in the photo gallery at the top of the page.
