Now just a fading memory for many residents, Buffalo’s famed War Memorial Stadium, originally dubbed Civic Stadium and later affectionately known as “the Rockpile,” stood proudly for nearly half a century at the corner of Jefferson and Best. Built in 1937 as a Public Works project, the stadium housed the original AAFC Buffalo Bills, stock car racing and the Buffalo Bisons over the course of its memorable history. So in 1983, when filmmakers were scouring the country for the perfect backdrop for Barry Levinson’s screen adaptation of The Natural—Bernard Malamud’s acclaimed baseball novel—they chose War Memorial, and began filming (the Stadium itself was demolished in 1988). The Natural is a classic, heavily-themed film about magic, inspiration and the “American Dream.” Oscar-nominated for cinematography, supporting actress (Glenn Close) and original score (Randy Newman), the movie has been lauded by critics as one of the most beautifully filmed of its time. This screening is part of the Riviera Theatre’s “Filmed in WNY Movie Series.” Director and Buffalo native John Takacs will start the show with a screening and discussion of his short feature, Tiny Magic (G), making the evening a double-feature of local interest cinema that’s perfect for all ages.

Thursday, July 20 at 7:30pm. Riviera Theatre, 67 Webster St,

North Tonawanda (692-2413). $3