The Coolidge mourns the loss of David Kleiler, film aficionado, teacher extraordinaire and, after leading the charge to save the Coolidge in 1989, our first Executive Director.
To borrow a phrase from the great filmmaker Werner Herzog, David was a true soldier of cinema. In addition to spearheading the grassroots movement to save the Coolidge from demolition and redevelopment, he was a tireless champion of film as an art form, an advisor to several filmmakers and film festivals, and a fixture on Boston's art house scene. His curatorial skills were impeccable, and he was a virtual encyclopedia of film.
David's passion for the Coolidge never wavered, and we are forever grateful for his wisdom, generosity, and support. Rest in peace, dear friend.
