Mystic Theater to host "The Last Ride"

RUMFORD -- Classic meets modern when a new film about country music legend Hank Williams premieres at The Mystic Theater at 49 Franklin.

"The Last Ride" chronicles the events that may have occurred during the late country star's mysterious final three days.

Hosting a new release of a major motion picture is a first for the Mystic Theater, which typically hosts live performances and private events.

"Premiering the film is exciting because it's unique and different for us, and the River Valley" said Cindy Grassette, co-owner of the turn of the century Mystic Theater which is a performance space within the former Methodist Church on Franklin Street in Rumford. "We have not shown a first-run feature-length film and we're exploring the possibility to have more, depending on the turn out of this film. That is not the type of theatre that we are now."

Although the theater won't be showing new releases on a regular basis, Scot and Cindy Grassette couldn't pass this opportunity to be a part of movie history.

"It shows the diversity of entertainment that the Mystic Theater can bring to our community" Scot said.

Avid television viewers and movie watchers will recognize several faces in the film. The film stars Henry Thomas, who portrayed Elliott in "ET: The Extra-Terrestrial" and appeared in roles in other movies and television shows, such as "CSI," "Without a Trace" and "The Mentalist;" Jesse James, who has appeared in many television shows, including "Bones," "ER," "Angel" and "The X-Files;" Fred Dalton Thompson, who plays D.A. Arthur Branch on "Law & Order" and appeared in small roles in many movies, including "Die Hard 2"; and Kaley Cuoco, who is best known for her portrayal of Penny on "The Big Bang Theory."

The film is directed by Harry Thomason, who has directed episodes of "Emeril," "Evening Shade" and "Designing Women."

After a limited engagement at select historical theaters, the film will open widely across the country in early July. "The Mystic Theater is thrilled to be one of very few theaters nationwide to premiere this film," Grassette said. "It will be a great opportunity for our community to experience something very special."

Unlike most theaters, The Mystic Theater will be able to add atmosphere to the experience through music. "Our pre-show music will feature Hank Williams' songs," Grassette said. There will be typical movie snacks, along with a full cash bar, popcorn and drinks.

For more information about the film, visit www.thelastridefilm.com or the Internet Movie Database, www.imdb.com, where the trailer can be viewed. More information on the Mystic Theater can be found at www.49franklin.com

The film is rated PG-13 for some language, a fight, and smoking. Tickets are $7 general admission at the door. The 102-minute film will be shown at 7 p.m. Monday June 25 through Saturday June 30, and at 1 p.m. Sunday July 1. Doors will open one hour before showtime.