Cinematheque offers something old, something new

Three upcoming showings by Cinematheque span nearly 100 years of film history, showcasing a full range of techniques developed around the world. All shows begin at 7 p.m. in Cinematheque, 4070 Vilas Hall, and are free and open to the public.

On Saturday, April 23, a pair of silent film restorations make their debut with live piano accompaniment by David Drazin. Presumed to be lost forever, “When Lincoln Paid” and “Upstream” by brothers Francis and John Ford (yes, THAT John Ford) have been recently rediscovered and are presented here in new 35mm prints courtesy of the George Eastman House and Academy Film Archive.

“When Lincoln Paid” re-creates an episode from the life of our 16th president — played by Francis Ford, who frequently assayed the role. “Upstream” is a multi-character entertainment about a group of performers in a theatrical boarding house and the developing love triangle between a knife-thrower, his pretty target, and the hammy Shakespearean actor she adores.

On Friday, April 29, Cinematheque presents the final installment in its series of Anthony Mann’s Westerns with “Man of the West.”

For more, visit Cinematheque.