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In defense of CAT movie introductions

February 2, 2018

I enjoy attending the new Rehoboth Beach Film Society's Cinema Art Theater in Lewes. One can see foreign and independently made films that are rarely circulated beyond urban areas. They offer depth and subtlety not found routinely in movies produced in Hollywood.

CAT is a small movie house which tries to introduce the film being shown with brief facts about the cast or directors, the background of the event portrayed, or some facts or trivia which may lend perspective. I generally enjoy this effort to sketch background.

In fact, I recommend the weekly Wrap It Up discussions which occur after the Wednesday 4 p.m. films.

Today's America is steeped in tensions ranging from Red and Blue, Local vs. Global, to gender, racial, legal or economic issues. These currents can be treacherous.

People must watch where they step and the words they use. Anger and insult can be unintentionally sparked so easily today.

A recent Letter to the Editor writer took insult from a CAT film introduction that she felt demeaned the female director/writer for merely being autobiographical. The complaint did not mention that he went on to say that the film was a fine job of showing a girl's path to adulthood when usually such journeys trace only the male experience.

Movies shown at CAT often probe controversial topics. Any attempt to address polarities is risky.

However, I do hope that thoughtful treatment of difficult subjects can provoke constructive dialogue, and mutual respect and appreciation among those who explore the range of entertainment offered by the Rehoboth Beach Film Society at CAT.

Unless we can relax and respect the views and reactions of others, our minds cannot be open to change.

The "liquid literature" of film can help us to find ways to convert the energies of tension into growth and progress.

Eric Kafka
Milton

 

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