Chilly weather, cozy sweaters and warmly lit celebrations signal the start of holiday movie season, and the Southampton Playhouse is ready to screen a lineup of seasonal favorites.
The theater’s "Holidays on Hill Street" series runs now through December 24 with films that range from suspenseful noir to heartwarming romance, comedy and classic holiday tales.
Highlights include:
“The Third Man” (1949) – 35mm
Friday, December 5, 7:15 p.m.
Orson Welles stars as the elusive Harry Lime in Carol Reed’s postwar noir set in Vienna. Joseph Cotten plays pulp writer Holly Martins, who investigates Lime’s apparent death. Accompanied by an iconic zither score and a script by novelist Graham Greene, the film builds to a memorable climax in Vienna’s sewers. Presented in partnership with Rialto Pictures, this screening is also part of The Scorsese Family Experience.
“The Shop Around the Corner” (1940)
Tuesday, December 9, 5 p.m.
Ernst Lubitsch’s classic romantic comedy follows Budapest leather store coworkers (Jimmy Stewart and Margaret Sullavan) who unknowingly fall in love as anonymous pen pals. The film, celebrated for the “Lubitsch Touch,” explores the joys and struggles of working-class life through humor and heart.
“The Shining” (1980) – IMAX
Friday to Sunday, December 12 to December 14
Stanley Kubrick’s horror masterpiece follows Jack Nicholson as Jack Torrance, an alcoholic caretaker slowly descending into madness at the Overlook Hotel. Famous for its striking set design and iconic scenes, the film offers a chilling wintertime tale on the Playhouse’s IMAX screen.
“A Christmas Story” (1983)
Wednesday, December 17, 5 p.m.
Bob Clark’s adaptation of Jean Shepherd’s novel chronicles the holiday misadventures of young Ralphie Parker (Peter Billingsley) in a nostalgic midwestern setting. Narrated by the adult Ralphie, the film balances humor and heart, capturing the timeless spirit of the season.
“It’s a Wonderful Life” (1946)
Monday to Wednesday, December 22 to December 24
Frank Capra’s holiday classic follows George Bailey (Jimmy Stewart), a despondent man given a chance to see the world had he never been born. With guidance from his guardian angel (Henry Travers), George discovers the value of his life, offering a hopeful conclusion to the Playhouse’s series.
Southampton Playhouse is at 43 Hill Street in Southampton. Tickets and more information are available at southamptonplayhouse.com.
Staff Writer on Nov 28, 2025