My Favorite Films: The Long, Hot Summer (1958)

Martin Ritt, 1958
155 minutes

Handsome vagabond Ben Quick (Paul Newman) returns to the Mississippi town his late father called home, but rumors of his dad’s pyromaniac tendencies follow him as soon as he sets foot there. The proud young man’s determination eventually wins over civic leader Will Varner (Orson Welles), who decides Ben might be just the man for his daughter, Clara (Joanne Woodward)—much to the displeasure of Will’s gutless son (Anthony Franciosa) and Clara’s society boyfriend (Richard Anderson).

“My Favorite Films” features tales of romance, humor, suspense, satire, and heroism with films since 1945. This series may hold special memories for you—no matter how many times you see them, they continue to draw you in. While many of these films are available through streaming, it’s always more fun to see them in the theater.

Make a day of it at the Modern and include extra time to visit the galleries and our special exhibitions. Enjoy lunch in Café Modern and then settle in for an afternoon screening, or plan for a coffee break afterwards with fellow film enthusiasts.

Screenings are most Wednesdays at 2 pm in the Modern’s auditorium. Tickets are $5 (FREE for Modern members), available at the museum’s admission desk. Click here to purchase tickets online.