
MOM AT THE MOVIES: The Films of Eileen Heckart
Hosted by her son, Luke Yankee
Character actress. Scene stealer. Oscar, Emmy, Tony and Golden Globe winner. Eileen Heckart built a five-decade career on nuance, timing, and an unerring instinct for truth — whether playing a sharp-tongued mother, a confidante, or a woman with secrets of her own. Hosted by her son, Luke Yankee, this retrospective offers an intimate portrait of a consummate performer whose fifty-year career bridged film, television and theatre.
Make it a full evening at the Palm Springs Cultural Center — come early for Foodie Fridays (5–8 PM) and enjoy local bites and live music. Each screening includes a 6PM pre-show of rare television appearances and commercials, followed by the main feature at 7PM on the Historic Camelot Theatre’s big screen. A witty, heartfelt journey through Hollywood’s golden decades — seen through the eyes of her son as he celebrates the mom, the wife, and the actress who never missed her mark.
Starring Paul Newman, Pier Angeli, Sal Mineo & Eileen Heckart | Dir. Robert Wise
Robert Wise directs this brisk, compassionate biopic of boxer Rocky Graziano, tracing his rise from street kid to world champion.
As Graziano’s long-suffering mother, Heckart offers fierce moral clarity and emotional heft — a portrait of love, exhaustion, and endurance.
LUKE YANKEE is an award-winning playwright, director, producer, actor and author of the critically acclaimed memoir, Just Outside the Spotlight: Growing Up with Eileen Heckart. After each screening, Mr. Yankee will share personal anecdotes and behind-the-scenes stories about the making of these classic films. He will also have personally autographed copies of his book available for purchase.
PRE-ORDER DRINK SPECIAL | Save $4
Elevate your movie night and select one of our classic cocktails! We offer a full range of fine wines, craft beers, and premium well drinks. Pre-order on Eventbrite and save $4 on two drinks with our exclusive pre-show drink special. Sip, relax, and enhance your cinematic experience with a touch of sophistication.