July 21, 2023

Summer Movie Nights at “Old Ironsides” Returns on July 28

CHARLESTOWN, MA (July 21, 2023)—USS Constitution and the USS Constitution Museum will host a series of free public Summer Movie Nights alongside the Ship this summer, beginning Friday, July 28. The “Old Ironsides” crew will project each film to guests seated on the pier alongside the legendary Ship to deliver a one-of-a-kind experience.

Each of the four films features the beauty and strength of the sea. The first screening is Academy Award-nominated Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World. Starring Russell Crowe, shot on a replica frigate, the film authentically depicts life and war at sea during the early 1800s, drawing parallels to Constitution’s legendary service during the War of 1812.

Before the screenings, Museum educators will offer free, all-ages activities and discuss the Ship’s history related to the movie being shown that evening. The Museum’s president Anne Grimes Rand notes, “We’re excited to collaborate with Constitution’s crew for a second season of Movie Nights. We hope people in the community take advantage of the chance to see these popular films in this unique setting. On the edge of the harbor alongside this great Ship, with the beautiful Boston skyline as a backdrop, the setting will provide an experience to remember.”

All movie titles, dates, and times for the Summer Movie Nights are available on the Museum’s website. The events will be first-come, first-served due to space. General seating is available, and guests may bring chairs and blankets to use while viewing the movie. Guests ages 18 and up will be asked to show a photo I.D. and pass through a security screening.

About the USS Constitution Museum

The USS Constitution Museum serves as the memory and educational voice of USS Constitution by offering award-winning exhibits where all ages can have fun while learning and exploring history together. The Museum’s mission is to engage visitors in the story of Constitution to spark excitement about maritime heritage, naval service, and the American experience. The Museum is open seven days a week with a pay-what-you-wish admission policy, and the Virtual Museum is open 24/7. For more information, visit usscm.org.

About USS Constitution

USS Constitution is the world’s oldest commissioned warship afloat, and played a crucial role in the Barbary Wars and the War of 1812, actively defending sea lanes from 1797 to 1855. The active-duty Sailors stationed aboard USS Constitution provide free tours and offer public visitation as they support the ship’s mission of promoting the Navy’s history and maritime heritage and raising awareness of the importance of a sustained naval presence. USS Constitution was undefeated in battle and destroyed or captured 33 opponents. The ship earned the nickname “Old Ironsides” during the War of 1812 when British cannonballs were seen bouncing off the Ship’s wooden hull.

Photo Caption:  Russell Crowe stars in the Academy Award-nominated film Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World, showing at the free Movie Night at Old Ironsides on July 28, 2023.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Criterion Pictures

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