The Jersey City Independent "

Share/Save

The Landmark Loew’s Jersey Theatre is used to hosting classic films and the occasional concert, but this weekend, the Journal Square landmark will play host to something a little different — a horror convention.

“Saturday Nightmares” descends on the Loew’s Friday, March 19 through Sunday, March 21, with a frightful lineup featuring film screenings, dozens of vendors and appearances by a number of horror legends.

“As far as I know, this is the first time there has ever been a pop culture convention in Journal Square — and in that sense, this is another step by those of us working on the ground, so to speak, to bring some (good) character and life back to the Square,” Friends of the Loew’s executive director Colin Egan says. “It’s also another step in cementing the image of the Loew’s as one of the cooler places in the region to enjoy film and all things related to the medium.”

One of the main attractions of the convention for horror junkies and cinephiles alike will surely be the rare 35mm screening of George Romero’s 1968 classic Night of the Living Dead at 10:30 pm on Friday. His Creepshow (1982) will also be screened in 35mm the next day. Both are rarities for conventions, which usually feature screenings from DVDs. What’s more, Romero himself will be among the fan favorites in attendance at the convention; he will be there all three days.

And between the 35mm screenings, there will be tons of screening of other horror film and TV classics, as well as panel discussions, Q&As, autograph sessions and — on Sunday — a costume contest.

Admission to the convention is $20 per day or $55 for the entire weekend. For more information or a complete schedule, click here.