In my previous column, I shared ideas on how Las Vegas venues can offer entertainment during the summer heat. One overlooked option was watching classic films in a cool movie theater. Imagine enjoying iconic Hollywood movies with a Vegas twist. Here are some examples of how classic films can be reimagined for a Vegas audience.
Cool Hand Luke (1967): Picture a version where prisoners must choose between staying in the cooler or building barricades for a famous Formula 1 race in Nevada.
Lawrence of Arabia (1962): Renamed Lawrence of Aladdin, this film follows a leader’s attempt to save the Aladdin Hotel from destruction, only to lose the battle and receive shares in Planet Hollywood.
Easy Rider (1969): Set at Hogs & Heifers Saloon in Downtown Las Vegas, this film features characters Wyatt and Billy spending their drug money at a music festival.
African Queen (1951): Titled African Queen of Hearts, this version sees Humphrey Bogart as a Venetian gondolier offering Kate Hepburn safe passage from excessive shopping on the Grand Canal.
12 Angry Men (1957): Renamed Five Angry Dealers, this Vegas adaptation follows craps dealers suing a casino over sharing tips with supervisors, with a jury ultimately ruling in their favor.
Some Like It Hot (1959): Transformed into Some Like It Vegas, this film follows two musicians fleeing Chicago to Las Vegas after witnessing a massacre, joining an all-girl band at the Silver Slipper.
These Vegas-themed adaptations of classic films offer a unique way to enjoy timeless movies in a comfortable, air-conditioned setting during the scorching summer days. So, why not beat the heat and indulge in some cool cinematic experiences this summer in Las Vegas? It’s a refreshing way to spend a hot afternoon in Sin City. Whether you prefer Viva Las Vegas or The Long, Hot Summer, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the world of Vegas cinema.