Critic’s Pick:  ‘Manhattan,’ ‘Annie Hall’ double bill honors Gordon Willis

A new Woody Allen film hits the screen just about once a year. But if like the super-intelligent aliens in 1980’s “Stardust Memories” you prefer the early, funny ones, the American Cinematheque at the Aero Theatre in Santa Monica features a double bill Friday of two of Allen’s best as part of a tribute to the late cinematographer Gordon Willis, who shot both of them.

Willis’ mastery of black and white is on display in 1979’s “Manhattan.” Allen co-stars in this tale of romance and longing with Diane Keaton, Meryl Streep and Mariel Hemingway as well as some gorgeous views of the city of New York.

Also playing is 1977’s “Annie Hall,” perhaps Allen’s best-loved film, which walked off with Oscars for best picture, director, lead actress for Keaton and original screenplay for Allen and Marshall Brickman. Also memorable is a movie line cameo from the one and only Marshall McLuhan. At 7:30 p.m. at the Aero, 1328 Montana Ave., Santa Monica.

— Kenneth Turan