TCL Chinese Theatre (formerly Grauman’s Grauman’s Chinese Theatre) should be on the bucket list of anyone who is a fan of classic Hollywood films (especially silent film).
While there are many shops and restaurants nearby and the Hollywood Walk of Fame is all around the area, to see the handprints/footprints and messages from celebrities of yesteryear is simply amazing.
In fact, the highlight of my Hollywood trip is probably seeing these.
It’s important to note that I prefer to go early in the morning. Just drive, find a parking garage and avoid the huge crowds and craziness.
Before unveiling the Chinese Theatre in January 1926, Sid Graumann financed and owned a one-third interest in the Chinese Theatre and his partners Mary Pickford, Douglas Fairbanks and Howard Schenck were the other part owners.
The location still has Hollywood film premieres and serves as a first-run movie theatre to this day.
As for the handprints and footprints, there are over 200 Hollywood celebrity handprints, footprints and autographs in concrete in the front court with some being alternated overtime.
A special committee chooses which celebrities, based on their contributions to Hollywood cinema, are showcased.
