Crave Relative Respite? Do a Double Feature

Sometimes, the day after a big get-together, two or three hours away from the house isn't quite enough. We need a long stretch to clear the mind (and stay away from the fridge); we're thankful, for that reason, that the New Beverly and American Cinematheque are both screening classics that make skipping leftovers the right thing to do.

Shiny Happy People: Jaw-dropping, tightly choreographed numbers complete with girls in glittery costumes, smiling placidly and tap-tap-taping America back to better times? Busby Berkeley specialized in over-the-top, dance-filled spectaculars that brightened theaters during the Depression. Should you need a bit of peppy, spirit-lifting eye-candy at the moment -- and who doesn't? -- Busby's the man. Catch "42nd Street" and "Gold Diggers of 1933" on Friday, December 26 (and Saturday, December 27). $7. New Beverly Cinema, 7165 W. Beverly Boulevard, Los Angeles. 323-938-4038

Paul Newman Memorial Tribute Weekend: American Cinematheque spools up several Paul Newman greats throughout the December 26-28 weekend, starting with "Cool Hand Luke" on Friday night. "Cool Hand Luke," of course, is one of the most famous jailhouse films to come out of the '60s, and maybe the entirety of cinema. "WUSA" follows, and should be noted is shown less often -- Newman plays a disc jockey who lands at a conservative radio station -- so this is the time to catch it on the big screen. Friday, December 26 (check the schedule for the full tribute run-down). The Egyptian Theatre, 6712 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood. 323-466-3456

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