JASON REITMAN TO HOST LIVE COMMENTARY OF "THE PRINCESS BRIDE" AT THE ACADEMY

BEVERLY HILLS, CA – Oscar®-nominated filmmaker Jason Reitman will be joined onstage by director Rob Reiner and actor Cary Elwes for the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences’ first live commentary event, featuring a screening of the 1987 favorite "The Princess Bride," on Thursday, August 15, at 7:30 p.m. at the Samuel Goldwyn Theater in Beverly Hills.  The format, a live version of commentaries typically included on DVDs and other recorded media, opens the door to illuminating anecdotes, behind-the-scenes details and filmmaker insights in real time.

Adapted by William Goldman from his 1973 novel, "The Princess Bride" is an unforgettable tale of love and adventure told by a kindly grandfather to his ill grandson.  Featuring swordplay, an evil prince, a giant and a beautiful princess, the film showcases an ensemble cast including Elwes, Robin Wright, Mandy Patinkin, Wallace Shawn, Carol Kane and Billy Crystal.  It earned an Oscar nomination for the original song "Storybook Love," written and composed by Willy DeVille.

The Academy Film Archive created the print, courtesy of 20th Century Fox, as part of Project Film-to-Film, an initiative that accelerates the Archive’s efforts to acquire and create new film masters and prints from at-risk elements.

Tickets for "The Princess Bride" Live Commentary are $5 for the general public and $3 for Academy members and students with a valid ID, and may be purchased starting August 1 online at www.oscars.org, in person at the Academy box office or by mail.  Doors open at 6:30 p.m.  The Samuel Goldwyn Theater is located at 8949 Wilshire Boulevard in Beverly Hills.  Ticketed seating is unreserved.  For more information, call (310) 247-3600 or visit www.oscars.org.