Free movies in Key West: M 3 M at B’nai Zion

Free movies in Key West: M 3 M at B’nai Zion - Marvin Hamlisch holding a book - Marvin Hamlisch: What He Did For Love

When Maxine Makover unexpectedly came across some extra money earlier this year, she knew she wanted to do something good with it. She has a passion for movies, as an executive producer of two successful independent movies: “Any Day Now” with actor Alan Cumming, a movie that went on to be the number one independent film in Japan, and “The Space Between,” which was picked up by USA Network for its 9/11 storyline.

“I secretly have always wanted a movie theater,” she said. So, she donated her newly acquired movie equipment to Congregation B’nai Zion, 750 United St., and started the M 3 M movie series. “I get to pick some really wonderful movies to show the community.”

On Tuesday, March 21 at 7:30 p.m., the 2013 documentary “Marvin Hamlisch: What He Did For Love,” will be shown. It chronicles the life and music of Hamlisch, and features Woody Allen, Barbra Streisand and Ann-Margret. Waterfront Playhouse Artistic Director Danny Weathers, who was in “A Chorus Line,” will be on hand to talk about his experiences with Hamlisch.

On Tuesday, April 18 at 7:30 p.m., “Morgenthau,” winner of a New York Emmy for Best Historical Program, will be shown. The documentary follows three generations of a Jewish-American family’s dynasty at the forefront of the 20th century’s most dramatic social and political moments. The film includes former President Bill Clinton, Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor, former New York mayors Rudy Giuliani and Ed Koch, and journalist and author Tom Brokaw.

Man is born to seek power, yet his actual condition makes him a slave to the power of others.” – Hans Morgenthau

Since being founded in 1887, Congregation B’nai Zion has been a vital part of Key West. With this new outreach initiative showing films that enrich, educate and entertain, Makover, who has vacationed in Key West for 23 years, and moved permanently in 2006, wants to help continues the synagogue’s long history of community involvement. 

Reservations are not required, but seating is limited. Refreshments and desserts will be served after the screening. The series is open and free to anyone. Donations are welcome. For more information, visit bnaizionkw.org, or call 404-274-3217.  

M 3 M stands for Movies on the Third Monday, but the next two showings are actually on Tuesdays. After April, the series will resume in November.

Kristen Livengood is a Marathon High School and University of South Florida grad, mom of two beautiful little girls, and wife to some cute guy she met in a bar. She enjoys red wine, Tito's, Jameson, running (very, very slowly), and spearfishing.