Looking for the perfect film to improve your library’s collection or captivate your audience? Look no further! Video Librarian has teamed up with librarians across the country to bring you a curated list of film recommendations. From thought-provoking documentaries to thrilling dramas, these expert-selected films are designed to inspire, educate, and entertain.
I Am Big Bird: The Caroll Spinney Story
Through intimate interviews and rare archival footage, I Am Big Bird explores into the life and career of Caroll Spinney, the beloved puppeteer behind Sesame Street's Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch. It captures the emotional depth and enduring impact of Spinney's contributions to children's television, showcasing his artistry, resilience, and the profound connections he forged with audiences worldwide.
Recommended for: Courses on the history of television and children's media, Studies in puppetry and performance arts.
How to Blow Up a Pipeline
Adapted from Andreas Malm's provocative book, How to Blow Up a Pipeline is a gripping narrative that delves into the ethics and tactics of radical environmental activism. The film explores the complexities and moral quandaries faced by those who believe that extreme measures are necessary to combat climate change.
Recommended for: Sociology classes, Cinema Studies
1996-98 AccuSoft Inc., All right
Sighted Eyes/Feeling Heart
Sighted Eyes/Feeling Heart is a revelatory documentary that offers an intimate and comprehensive look at the life and work of Lorraine Hansberry, the groundbreaking playwright whose A Raisin in the Sun shattered barriers on Broadway. Through rich archival footage, personal letters, and insightful interviews, the film illuminates Hansberry as not only a brilliant artist but also a passionate activist and complex individual.
Recommended for: Courses on African American history and culture, Women's studies, Theater history, Social justice studies, and Documentary filmmaking.
1917
Shot with an astonishing single-shot technique, the film follows two British soldiers on a perilous mission to deliver a life-saving message across enemy territory during World War I. Through its pacing, stunning cinematography, and intimate portrayal of the horrors of war, 1917 offers a haunting and unforgettable cinematic experience.
Recommended for: History courses, Filmmaking courses, War cinema courses
King Richard
This biographical drama chronicles the extraordinary journey of Richard Williams, the visionary father behind tennis legends Venus and Serena Williams. King Richard showcases Richard's unwavering belief in his daughters' potential and his unconventional methods to nurture their talents. Set in Compton, California, the film offers a raw and authentic portrayal of the challenges and triumphs faced by the Williams family.
Recommended for: Courses on sports cinema, sociology
Looking for the Wild: Unai’s Journey
Looking for the Wild: Unai’s Journey is a captivating documentary that follows a young boy and his family on an extraordinary adventure across the globe. Unai, a curious and adventurous ten-year-old, joins his nature photographer father on a quest to capture images of seven iconic animals facing critical threats. This immersive experience transforms into a powerful exploration of the delicate balance between humans and wildlife.
Recommended for: Environmental studies courses, wildlife conservation programs
Big Sonia
Through intimate storytelling and vivid imagery, the film follows the life of Sonia Warshawski, a Holocaust survivor turned spirited businesswoman. As Sonia faces the prospect of losing her beloved tailor shop after decades of operation, Big Sonia becomes a poignant exploration of legacy, loss, and the enduring power of the human spirit.
Recommended for: Courses on Holocaust studies, documentary filmmaking
Buffalo Death Mask
Buffalo Death Mask is a poignant short experimental film by Canadian filmmaker Mike Hoolboom. Through its abstract visuals and evocative storytelling, the film reflects on the personal and collective memories of the AIDS epidemic, capturing the haunting beauty and profound sorrow of those affected.
Recommended for: Courses on the history and legacy of the AIDS epidemic, Filmmaking courses exploring experimental cinema.