About the history & legacy of cinema in Kansas City

Most people on the coasts know about Kansas City's musical heritage.  They've heard about the barbecue.  They have a vague recollection that someone once told them it's a nice town.  But it's still a "flyover," one of the places they see from the airplane window while traveling between New York and L.A.  The idea that this Midwestern city has a rich cinematic heritage would likely never occur to them.

It doesn't always occur to people who live here, either, and the History & Legacy page is designed to change that.  This area has produced famous actors and groundbreaking directors, as well as major advances in film exhibition and distribution.  There are a remarkable number of historic buildings in Kansas City associated with the industry, including some of the country's most beautiful theaters.  And, of course, there's a tradition of both independent and Hollywood-based filmmaking here, going back to the silent era.

Ideas and information are always welcome.  There are hundreds of stories to tell, and we look forward to sharing some of them with you. - Loey Lockerby, Heartland Critic and Past President of the KC Film Critics Circle