Instant Classic

The heat is officially on. All through our gloriously mild spring, that notorious Texas summer -- with its sticky, swarming buzz -- had yet to peek its head in and ruin all our fun. It's been great, friends, but it can only last so long. In a matter of weeks, we'll be seeking cool shelter, throwing all thoughts of glamour aside, sobbing in our beers about the oppressive months ahead. Thank God, then, for the Paramount Summer Classics.

For over three months, the Paramount Theatre will run more than 80 classic movies in the comfort of its climate-controlled sanctuary. Although we know you may be gearing up for some of the season's blockbuster releases, this amazing series gives you something Hollywood (and Washington) doesn't always offer: a choice. Want a gladiator epic a bit more enduring than Ridley Scott's latest? Just wait till the Paramount unveils Spartacus in its 70mm widescreen format. Don't want to stand in line to see Tom Cruise charm and judo-chop his way through an impossible mission? Hey, check out Top Gun, where you can watch him ride into the danger zone with Goose and the Iceman. The lineup also offers more conventional classics -- like Casablanca, My Fair Lady, Lawrence of Arabia, and The Wizard of Oz -- those rare films that you can share with your parents and your children. In anticipation of the series (which has already begun) we asked some of our staff writers to contribute short pieces about films they hold dear. As you read over their contributions, we hope it prompts some memories of your own. So that when you're trapped in the steambath that was once your car, the backs of your legs making fart noises on the vinyl, you'll know exactly where you can head for relief -- that is, as soon as the blistering steering wheel cools down.