Rated G 
92 Min

A mysterious visitor from outer space comes to Cold War era Earth to deliver a crucial warning to humanity. When a UFO lands in Washington, D.C., bearing a message for Earth's leaders, all of humanity stands still. Klaatu (Michael Rennie) has come on behalf of alien life who have been watching Cold War-era nuclear proliferation on Earth. But it is Klaatu's soft-spoken robot Gort that presents a more immediate threat to onlookers. A single mother (Patricia Neal) and her son teach the world about peace and tolerance in this moral fable, ousting the tanks and soldiers that greet the alien's arrival.

The Day the Earth Stood Still received recognition from the American Film Institute and was selected for preservation in the United States Library of Congress' National Film Registry.

The film was acknowledged as the fifth best film in the classic science fiction genre by the American Film Institute.




For 21 years, The News-Gazette has sponsored monthly screenings of the most beloved classic films at the Virginia Theatre.

The News-Gazette Film Series is your ticket to Hollywood’s golden age! Add house organist David Schroeder performing on the Virginia’s historic Hope Jones II Wurlitzer pipe organ before many shows, and you have an evening of entertainment fit for the whole family.

News-Gazette film critic Richard Leskosky will be back this season following many 7pm News-Gazette screenings for a post-show talk about each film — in the Virginia lobby.

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FACE MASKS OPTIONAL
In accordance with guidance from Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Public Health, beginning February 28, 2022, the wearing of face masks is considered optional in Champaign Park District facilities, including the Virginia Theatre.

Patrons are still welcome to wear a face mask while at the Virginia, and the theatre will continue to provide complimentary masks to those who wish to wear them.

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Champaign Park District has implemented the following mitigation practices at the Virginia Theatre in accordance with guidelines set by federal, state, and local public health authorities:

• Additional cleaning and disinfecting, with a focus on touch surfaces, door knobs and push plates, railings, auditorium seating, restroom facilities, and countertops.

• Touchless hand sanitizing stations are located throughout the Theatre’s lobbies and work spaces for use by patrons, volunteers, staff, and production personnel.