News Release

50th Anniversary of “The Italian Job” to be Celebrated at the LBJ Ranch in “Movies Under the Stars” Series

Visitors prepare to enjoy a movie at the LBJ Ranch

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News Release Date: July 16, 2019

Contact: Antoine Fletcher, 830-644-2396

Johnson City, Texas -- Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park continues its popular summer “Movies Under the Stars” series on Saturday, July 27, with the screening of “The Italian Job.” Starring Michael Caine in the leading role, this action comedy delighted audiences 50 years ago—including an audience at the LBJ Ranch. On August 7, 1969, former President and Mrs. Johnson screened this film for friends and neighbors in their airplane hangar, which they periodically turned into a movie theater. On July 27, the film will start at dusk and will be presented on an outdoor screen at the LBJ Ranch near Stonewall. Access to the ranch begins at 7:00 pm.
 
This year marks the 50th anniversary of “The Italian Job.” Released in 1969, the film is full of comedy, action, and suspense—with a dash of 1960s style. It tells the story of professional criminal Charlie Croker (Michael Caine) who embarks on a dangerous mission. Recently released from prison, Charlie learns one of his friends attempted a high risk job of hijacking gold bullion in Turin, Italy. Unfortunately, the mafia found out what Charlie’s friend was up to, and killed him. Charlie then decides to take over the heist himself. He orchestrates a traffic jam in Turin, steals the gold, and attempts to escape. Co-stars include Noel Coward, Benny Hill, Raf Vallone, and Margaret Blye.
 
The Johnsons enjoyed inviting guests to their ranch to show some of the biggest films of the 1960s and early 1970s. For modern visitors, the Movie Under the Stars series is a great way to enjoy timeless classics while enjoying a night of family fun on the LBJ Ranch—just like friends of the Johnsons experienced.
 
Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and refreshments. The program is offered free of charge. The entrance to the LBJ Ranch is located north of US Highway 290, just off of Ranch Road 1. Parking is available near the movie site.
 
The LBJ Ranch hangar visitor center will be open from 7:00 pm through the end of the film. Visitors are welcome to explore the interactive exhibits and shop the Western National Parks Association sales outlet. A movie trivia contest will precede the film.
 
The documentary “Apollo 11” will be the next film in the Movies Under the Stars series. The park will screen that film on Saturday, September 7.  
 
Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park is open seven days a week from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. For more information call 830-868-7128 ext. 231 or 244, or visit www.nps.gov/lyjo and www.facebook.com/LBJohnsonNPS.

More than 20,000 National Park Service employees care for America’s 419 national parks and work with communities across the nation to help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities. Visit us at www.nps.gov, on Facebook www.facebook.com/nationalparkservice, Twitter www.twitter.com, and YouTube www.youtube.com/nationalparkservice.

 

 

 

 



Last updated: July 20, 2019

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