Blood Simple (40th Anniversary Screening)

This razor-sharp modern film noir, the first film by Joel and Ethan Coen, introduced the brothers’ inimitable black humor and eccentric sense of character, a sensibility that has helped shape the course of contemporary American cinema. Deep in the heart of Texas, a sleazy bar owner suspects his wife of having an affair and hires a private detective to confirm his suspicions—only to have the crosshairs turned back on himself. Playfully shot by Barry Sonnenfeld and featuring a haunting score by Carter Burwell and a cunning performance by Frances McDormand, Blood Simple was a career-launching film for this ensemble and the first articulation of the precision of style that has defined the Coens’ work ever since.

“Blood Simple” becomes a dazzling comedie noire, a dynamic, virtuoso display by a couple of talented fledgling filmmakers who give the conventions of the genre such a thorough workout that the result is a movie that’s fresh and exhilarating.” (Los Angeles Times)

“What holds up best about ‘Blood Simple,’ besides its vice-tight plotting and the rotten charisma of M. Emmet Walsh’s evil, manipulative private eye Visser, is the sheer exuberance of the Coens’s visual style.” (The Ringer)

“A gripping, drum-tight noir masterpiece to compare with ‘Touch of Evil.'” (Guardian UK)

Sunday, December 28
Doors 6:30 pm | Movie 7:00 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.
Holiday Pricing! All tickets $10 HERE

BLOOD SIMPLE (Joel  & Ethan Coen, 1984 / 97 mins / 14A) The owner of a seedy small-town Texas bar discovers that one of his employees is having an affair with his wife.

*Our box office is typically open 30 minutes before showtime. Please arrive 20-30 minutes prior to showtime to ensure great seats, and time for treats at concession.
*All Park Theatre tickets are final sale. No refunds, exchanges, or transfers.