As a seasoned cinephile who has spent countless nights huddled in darkened theaters, from the grungy indie joints of my youth to the plush seats of modern multiplexes, I must say that this year’s National Film Preservation Board selections are nothing short of a cinematic smorgasbord. From the teeth-rattling terror of “The Texas Chain Saw Massacre” to the tech titan tale spun by David Fincher in “The Social Network,” these films not only represent the diverse tapestry of American cinema but also serve as time capsules, capturing moments in history that continue to resonate.
At the end of the year, it has been disclosed that 25 movies have been selected to join The Library of Congress this year, thanks to the National Film Preservation Board’s decision. Since the National Film Preservation Act was passed by Congress in 1988, establishing the National Film Preservation Board within the Library of Congress, a diverse selection of 25 films spanning various eras and genres is reviewed annually for inclusion into the Library. These movies are regarded as having cultural or historical significance, ensuring they will be preserved by the Library, thus making them more accessible to the public in the United States.
This year, the Board has decided, much as they typically do, to select a diverse assortment of films to be included among the nearly 900 historical cinematic pieces. These range from the groundbreaking 1974 horror movie “The Texas Chain Saw Massacre” to David Fincher’s contemporary masterpiece “The Social Network.
As a passionate cinephile myself, I’d like to share some insights I picked up from Turner Classic Media’s esteemed host and film historian, Jacqueline Stewart. In her recent statement, she shed light on the intriguing process behind the decisions made by the board at TCM.
Jacqueline Stewart shares that the National Film Registry now encompasses 900 titles, and what stands out to her is the fact that each year, as the board deliberates on films and their importance, they discover additional titles worthy of inclusion. The rich tapestry of American cinematic history can be overpowering, leading people to ask: how do you suggest one film over another? Her response: it’s through extensive research, dialogue, and a dedication to reflect the full spectrum of filmmaking.
Even Student Films Are Recognized by the Board
2024’s selections for induction span from classic movies to contemporary blockbusters, mirroring the evolution of filmmaking over time. This year’s list encompasses popular favorites such as “Dirty Dancing,” “Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan,” and “Beverly Hills Cop.” However, it also includes lesser-known films like “Powwow Highway,” “The Chelsea Girls,” and the student works of black filmmaker Zora Lathan from 1975 and 1976. Stewart emphasized the diversity in film genres that they acknowledge for their cultural, historical, and artistic significance in cinematic history.
Jacqueline Stewart is excited to announce that a variety of film genres will be acknowledged this year: student movies, indie productions, animations, documentaries, and experimental pieces. Additionally, we’ll be recognizing feature-length narrative dramas, comedies, horrors, and science fiction on our registry!
Apart from honoring films for their significance to American viewers, the Board is also acknowledging the contributions of American filmmakers. This year’s selections, which include notable films such as “Up in Smoke,” “Mi Familia,” and “Compensation,” create a vibrant mosaic spanning the annals of American cinema. These chosen works will be preserved for upcoming generations of filmmakers to study and appreciate.
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2024-12-17 23:34