'Metropolis' takes over Seaholm

AUSTIN (KXAN) - A classic-of-early film is now being seen like never before after missing footage from 1927's "Metropolis" was discovered gathering dust two years ago.

Now, the Alamo Drafthouse is bringing the restored version to Austin.

"If we didn't get this place, we wouldn't be involved," said Alamo Drafthouse owner Tim League.

The place League's talking about is the Seaholm Power Plant, which has become the hot spot for all sorts of events.

Yet, the Alamo may have found one of the most perfect uses for the space.

"We're opening the first Southwest screening of the newly restored print of 'Metropolis,' which many people consider to be the most important film of all time," said League. "The movie centers around an art deco power plant, and here we are at an art deco power plant."

League, the founder and CEO of Alamo Drafthouse Cinemas, found a version most have never seen.

"Just last year in Argentina, they found a cut of that film that was 30 minutes longer than any known cut of 'Metropolis,' so this is going to be the first time ever in this part of the country it's shown," said League.

And in the history of film, "Metropolis" was the starting point for the way movies would be produced for years to come.

"There were techniques that were developed for this film that were staggering," said League. "In 1927, there really had been nothing like it, and there was nothing like it for 20 years to come."

"Metropolis" will screen at the Seaholm Power Plant on Sept. 11. Some 700 people are expected, and only 100 tickets are left .