Senior residents gather for a nostalgic movie night in tribute to Hollywood legend.
by Ross Williams
In a delightful celebration of cinema and the golden era of Hollywood, the residents of Ventura Townehouse Senior Living Community unveiled their much-anticipated movie event with a red carpeted grand opening ceremony. The inaugural screening honored the memory of the late actor Ernest Borgnine and his 1972 classic The Poseidon Adventure.
As I ascended to the magnificent Vista room, perched atop the seven-story building, the elevator doors gracefully slid open, and the delightful aroma of freshly popped popcorn enveloped the air, instantly transporting me to the enchanting world of movies. The grandeur of the occasion was evident as I stepped into a scene reminiscent of a glamorous red carpet event.
The hall buzzed with excitement and energy, elegantly decorated, tables adorned with a delectable array of hors d’oeuvres and mouth watering desserts. A photo wall, reminiscent of the glitz and glamor of Hollywood premieres, beckoned residents to capture the magical moments of this unforgettable evening. The ambiance was further enhanced by the transformation of the space into a full-fledged movie theater, complete duel grand pianos, glistening buckets of popcorn, and a mesmerizing big screen that hung tall and proud.
With anticipation building in the air, residents eagerly converged in the Vista room for the highly anticipated first screening. The staff of Ventura Townehouse, dressed in exquisite suits and elegant gowns, gracefully navigated the room, their warm smiles radiating genuine care and affection for those in attendance. It was a heartwarming sight to witness the staff members offering warm embraces, engaging in heartfelt conversations, and demonstrating their unwavering love and support for the residents. Their dedication and commitment to creating a memorable experience for everyone present was palpable, fostering an atmosphere of warmth, comfort, and a true sense of community.
Movie nights will provide the senior community with an opportunity to relive cherished memories and connect through the power of film. Ernest Borgnine, an Academy Award-winning actor known for his incredible talent and captivating performances, has a personal connection to Ventura Townehouse Senior Living Community. His daughter, Nancee, is one of the cherished directors of the community, and the event served as a heartfelt tribute to her late father’s cinematic legacy.
Residents and staff members expressed their excitement and gratitude for this new addition to their activities calendar. The movie events will feature a variety of classic films and modern favorites and is scheduled to take place every few days, providing a regular source of entertainment and camaraderie for the community’s residents. “Tuesday Romcom’s, Wednesday Westerns and Saturday Turner Classics are the plan,” said Nancee between salutations.
As the clock neared 7pm the soft piano music that had filled the air paused and a round applause filled the air. “That was great Barbara.” a resident shouted and I realized that the music that had been filling the hall was in fact being played by one of the residents.
The event commenced with a heartwarming speech by Nancee Borgnine, who shared fond memories of her father and the first time he took her to a red carpet. “It was the GodFather. And he told me to stay close and keep my mouth shut,” she expressed with a laugh and a smile.
The room fell silent as the movie began, the opening credits played and the staff walked through the rows of residents offering popcorn and flutes of champagne. Nancee stood proud at the back of the room, proud of the evening’s success and her dad’s legacy. By celebrating the timeless art of cinema and honoring the legacy of Ernest Borgnine, they have brought a touch of Hollywood glamor to the lives of their cherished seniors.
