Movie Night at the Museum

Join Andy Hardy for a story about the complexities of teenage love this February!

Love Finds Andy Hardy is one of 16 films that feature the Hardy family. In this film, Andy, played by Mickey Rooney, must decide on a date to the country club party of the year: the Christmas Eve Ball.

Andy is excited to take his girlfriend (Ann Rutherford) as his date, especially since he has just bought his first car, but conflicts arise in the form of scheduling, matters of health, and matters of the heart. Add an out-of-town friend, a neighbor’s granddaughter (Judy Garland), young love, and you’ve got yourself a story.

The Andy Hardy series started with a theater production in 1928. The initial Hardy film debuted in 1937 and the last was released in 1958.

Though actors came and went throughout the series, Rooney played Andy Hardy in each film. Rooney enjoyed a long and successful career (he is credited in more than 300 titles), from his first in 1926 (a short titled Not To Be Trusted) to the Night at the Museum series (2014).

The screening takes place 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 24, in the Swanberg Classroom at the Northwest Montana History Museum, 124 Second Ave. E., Kalispell. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Host and educator Jacob Thomas will provide prescreening remarks.

Admission and popcorn are free, with soda, water, beer, and wine available for purchase. Seating is provided, but guests are welcome to bring their own cushions or chairs for added comfort.

The Northwest Montana History Museum brings the past alive through exhibits, artifacts, educational programs, and events. Regular museum hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays at 124 Second Ave. E., Kalispell; nwmthistory.org; 406-756-8381.