National Classic Movie Day

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“May the Force be with you." – Han Solo, "Star Wars: A New Hope" (1977). Lights, camera, action! Movies have always been more than just entertainment. In fact, movies have impacted our culture. Additionally, pop culture has also been impacted by movies. Those of us who are older will fondly recall Sundays, when the Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation (JBC), the only television station at that time televised Sunday Matinees. It was a time for families to watch a movie and have a family conversation. This was the era before the advent of social media. Many are unaware that there is in fact a National Classic Movie Day. National Classic Movie Day is observed on May 16th. The day is set aside to celebrate the film industry and put spotlight on iconic movies that remain favorites through the years. Many critics define a classic movie as any movie that is memorable or makes an impact on society. A true classic movie impacts pop culture, influences society, and remains a part of our lives. In fact, a classic movie is one that has or will withstand the test of time and remain memorable through generations. When we think of a classic movie, we often think of a movie in black and white. National Classic Movie Day is a day dedicated to honoring the timeless films that have entertained us for decades. Whether it is an iconic black and white film or a colourful musical extravaganza, classic movies hold a special place in our hearts. This national day has its roots in the love and nostalgia people feel for the golden age of cinema. From the silent films of Charlie Chaplin to the romantic comedies of Cary Grant, classic movies continue to captivate audiences of all ages. However, many movies of modern times have become classics. Not many critics can deny that movies like: The Sound of Music, High Noon, Gone With the Wind, To Kill A Mockingbird, The Wizard of Oz, Jaws, Star Wars, Breakfast at Tiffany’s, To sir, with Love and Casablanca, Spartacus, The Godfather and Cleopatra are all classics. However, there might be more controversy among critics regarding the more modern day movies concerning those which meet the standards of being a classic. Every classic movie contains pieces to a large puzzle. As a result joining these pieces together takes time, dedication, vision, and creativity beginning with the screen writer to final productions. Without a doubt, more contemporary movies such as American Pie, Barbie, and The 40 Year Old Virgin have all impacted pop culture. The Birth of Cinema. The term 'classic movie' traces its origins to the birth of cinema in the early 20th century. In 1905, the Lumière Brothers, pioneers of the motion picture industry, released a series of short films that captivated audiences. These early films, such as 'L'Arroseur Arrosé' and 'The Arrival of a Train at La Ciotat Station,' became the foundation of what would later be considered classic movies. In the 1920s, the term 'classic movie' was not yet in use. However, this period marks the birth of what would become known as 'classic movies.' Silent films gained immense popularity during this time, with iconic films like 'The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari' (1920) and 'Metropolis' (1927) captivating audiences worldwide. These early films laid the foundation for the art of filmmaking and set the stage for the term 'classic movie.' The Golden Age. The Golden Age in film began in 1927 and ended around 1959. It was during this time Hollywood began producing iconic films containing advancements in picture quality and sound. In fact, film historians often say 1939 was the most memorable year in movie history. Every great movie contains an ending that leaves us feeling some sort of emotion. Whether the ending is sad, triumphant, or empowering, the movie ending is what makes us walk away feeling content. Sometimes we feel an internal feeling of sadness after the ending of a movie. However, we also feel happiness because our perception of the ending was fitting. Is this what sends us back to watch a movie again and again? In 1941, the Academy Awards, which had been honoring outstanding films since 1929, introduced a new category called 'Best Picture.' This category aimed to recognize exceptional films of enduring value, effectively cementing the significance of classic movies. The first film to receive this prestigious accolade was 'Rebecca' (1940). As the Academy Awards gained prominence, so did the term 'classic movie,' which became synonymous with excellence in filmmaking. Ways to Celebrate. Celebrating National Classic Movie Day is as easy as cheese. Perhaps, you can grab some popcorn, curl up on your favourite couch, and cozy up to your preferred classic film. Whether it is a black and white masterpiece, a contemporary movie or a vibrant musical, immerse yourself in the magic of a classic movie. Yes, go a step further by sharing your much loved classic movie moments on social media with friends and loved ones. Finally, do not forget to have fun! In the words of Walt Disney, movies can and do have tremendous influence in shaping young lives in the realm of entertainment towards the ideals and objectives of normal adulthood. Wayne Campbell is an educator and social commentator with an interest in development policies as they affect culture and or gender issues. waykam@yahoo.com @WayneCamo #NationalClassicMovieDay

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