"A Face in the Crowd" starring Andy Griffith and Patricial Neal, Directed by Elia Kazan.

From 1957, a powerful drama that showcases the talents of a remarkable cast, led by Andy Griffith in his screen debut, as you’ve never seen him before,  and the great Patricia Neal.  The story centers on Larry "Lonesome" Rhodes, a drifter who is discovered by the producer of a small-market radio program in rural northeast Arkansas, and who rises to great fame and influence on national television.  In vividly illustrating the impact that TV can have on politics, the film is truly visionary in predicting the expanding nature of that power, and warning the viewer to be on guard for the future. Among the wonderful supporting players are Walter Matthau, Anthony Franciosa, and Lee Remick. The screenplay is by Budd Schulberg, based on his own short story, and is directed by Elia Kazan -  known so well for “A Streetcar Named Desire” and “On the Waterfront” - at the height of his enormous directing skill. Len Simon will provide some background on the film before the screening and moderate a discussion after.