You don't have to visit the West Shore to go bowling this weekend, or wait until Art of the Cocktail to sip White Russians.
You guessed it: The Dude is back, and he will abide at the Vic Theatre on Saturday night.
"This is what happens, Larry, this is what happens when VFF takes over the Vic," quipped Victoria Film Festival spokeswoman Colleen Hildebrandt, dishing up a twist on one of many memorable lines from The Big Lebowski.
The Coen Brothers' R-rated comedy classic, starring Jeff Bridges as the amiable, bathrobe wearing slacker mistaken for the millionaire of the title, is making a comeback for a revival of the festival's popular Quote-Along Classics screening series.
Last year's sellout was another reminder audiences can't seem to get enough of the Dude's wacky adventures with bowling buddies Walter (John Goodman) and Donny (Steve Buscemi) as they seek restitution after thugs pee on his beloved rug.
"Well, sir, it's this rug I had. It really ties the room together," said Bridges, unleashing a line that would be quoted endlessly.
In addition to getting the chance to recite the Dude's response when asked what he does for recreation - "Oh, the usual. I bowl. Drive around. The occasional acid flashback" - you can enjoy beverages and win themed prizes.
The film was booked to tie into the festival's Cocktail Series screenings at the Vic.
The series includes Sex and the City (Sept. 21), accompanied by Flirtinis and Cosmopolitans; Casablanca (Sept. 28), pairing French 75s and Champagne cocktails; and Gold finger on Oct. 5, to celebrate James Bond Day.
Vodka martinis and mint juleps will be available at that event, as well as a Gold finger prize package worth more than $800.
The Big Lebowski showtime is 8 p.m., with doors opening at 7 at the Vic, 808 Douglas St.
Tickets are $10 and available at the door (cash only). Admission is restricted to film-goers ages 19 and older.
For more information, visit victoriafilmfestival.com.
