The Digital Collegian - Published independently by students at Penn State
OPINIONS
[ Tuesday, Jan. 11, 2005 ]

Letter to the Editor
Classic movie option needed on campus

I support the university's educational objective on cable television broadcasting, but I notice a lack of channels to fully appreciate the art of classic film.

Must one mention that fine movies exist before 1990, that we must be given the chance to tune in and immerse ourselves in these cultural landmarks? My own passion for writing and cinema grew through the limited chances I once had to view these timeless pictures on stations such as American Movie Classics and Turner Classic Movies, and now that feeling of admiration wanes.

I refer to one of my classes, where of twenty-some particularly bright moviegoers, I was the only one to recognize the milestone picture "Taxi Driver."

This presents another lesson to lecture: Although we are educated to strengthen our knowledge of essential literature, so too must the windows of opportunity be opened for one to invest in classic film on television right alongside the MTVs and ESPNs of the entertainment world.

I should not offer in great detail the obvious benefits with viewing those movies like "Lawrence of Arabia," the enjoyment that arises like opening an aged but lively book. My irked attitude may result from just the mere absence of AMC and TCM. Let it be known that old cinema, unseen by young eyes, and not just new-age and new-idea cinema, can still be loved on daily television.

Matt Lavelle
freshman-English
 



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