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Looking back on 30 years of Nfocus, we have seen a lot of parties. A lot of parties. We have been honored to be in the room to witness the creativity of themes that have been the foundation for both intimate private parties and large-scale galas — and we have enjoyed them all. 

Since the early days of film, we have seen the world in a different light. Movies touch our hearts and expand our minds through their narrative and creative cinematography. And (spoilers) who didn’t cry when E.T. died? Or cheer when Rudy sacks the Georgia Tech quarterback and is carried off the field? To give a little inspiration to your next gathering — and ahead of next week’s Dinner & a Movie fundraiser at Belcourt Theatre — we looked to the cinema and movies that turn 30 this year to make your next event red-carpet worthy. 

Jurassic Park

Everyone’s favorite prehistoric thriller may turn 30 this year, but it lives on through its cult following… and its seven sequels. Host a paleontology party inspired by Jurassic Park, complete with dinosaur-shaped cookies, egg-shaped crispy rice treats or these adorable fruit skewers to stay on theme. For even more fun, draw straws to see who will don this inflatable dinosaur costume, and yes, it is sized for adults — life finds a way.

Nightmare Before Christmas

The Halloween x Christmas hybrid film following Jack Skellington as he attempts to take over Christmas will forever be a holiday favorite — both holidays. A perfect party theme during winter gatherings (or whenever you’re feeling spooky), keep decor and food items on-theme by sticking to a black and white color palette, throwing in pops of purple or a spooky green when needed. Have fun with your food labels, too — why merely make a margarita when you can make a “deadly nightshade?”

Hocus Pocus

Oh look! Another glorious morning… makes me sick! The classic Halloween film celebrated the launch of its 30th birthday with a long-awaited sequel, though the original is sure to still be replayed time and again. The Sanderson Sisters’ quest to turn back the clock on age is full of clever party ideas. Think: a giant smoking cauldron filled with a boozy “brew,” lots of candlelight and a color scheme matching the sisters’ iconic red, blonde and black hair. Not to mention, the film’s soundtrack makes the perfect spooky party playlist!

Groundhog Day

You may have to set an end time for a Groundhog Day-themed party so you don’t get stuck in a time loop, but the classic film starring Bill Murray can serve as creative inspiration for a party on February 2 or beyond. Start by serving a café-style breakfast spread, complete with pancakes, donuts and a boozy cappuccino, laugh along as the classic movie plays (on a loop) in the background, and take a party-wide wager on whether or not an object of choice will see its shadow by the end of the night. 

Sleepless in Seattle

The classic 1993 rom-com starring Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan is the perfect inspiration for a Valentine’s Day soireé, engagement party, bridal shower, or even a speed-dating event. Get your guests extra vulnerable by encouraging them to share what they love about someone else in the room or pen handwritten love letters to that someone special.