Hasta La Ideas

As we once reported, Orson Welles’ epic 1941 riff on William Randolph Hearst has screened previously on the grounds of the Hearst Castle. But tonight’s $1,000-a-ticket showing is an entirely different Citizen Kane story.

For the first time, the movie will be enjoyed within the walls of Hearst’s palatial estate, in the private screening room, as part of the 2015 San Luis Obispo International Film Festival. TCM’s Ben Mankiewicz will introduce the film to an audience group topping out at the intimate total of around 50. From the program notes:

Before the movie, two exclusive Hearst Castle party packages will be live auctioned. One is a Movie Night for 10 that includes a sunset reception. Within approved parameters, the winning bidder would choose the movie, date and invited guests.

The second is a Pool Party for 10 in the spectacular indoor Roman Pool, famous for its exotic tiles inlaid with real gold. The swimming party would include a poolside reception and the use of the historic dressing rooms next to the pool. Bidding for both packages will begin at $10,000 each, the proceeds of which will directly benefit Friends of Hearst Castle and conservation treatments for the castle’s collections, with the remainder designated for the San Luis Obispo International Film Festival.

Mankiewicz is the grandson of Citizen Kane co-writer Joseph Mankiewicz. In attendance tonight also will be director John Milius, born three years after the Kane’s release. Milius is receiving the festival’s 2015 Spotlight award.

I’m intro’ing CITIZEN KANE tonight INSIDE @HearstCastle – 1st time ever. Thanks to #SLOIFF for making it happen. Now, what to say? @TCM

— Ben Mankiewicz (@BenMank77) March 13, 2015