An unusual and fascinating documentary focusing on how American public memorials have evolved in design and meaning, Public Memory points out that historical significance plays an important role in determining public tribute, but also that "significance" is a subjective term that shifts over time--often the memorial is commissioned years after the events being commemorated, most notably in the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail and the proposed national monument to the African-American victims of lynching during the Jim Crow years. Filmmaker Amy Gerber traces how the grand concept of emulating the memorials of the ancient world (examples include the temple-like Lincoln Memorial and the obelisk of the Washington Monument) has segued into more fluid and often complex concepts (such as the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, which initially created such an uproar that a more traditional statue of three soldiers was soon placed near Maya Lin's masterwork). The film also examines the heated and seemingly never-ending debate over the 9/11 memorial design in New York, which has created more controversy than closure. Successful memorials ensure that the public never forgets particular people and events, yet many monuments are simply ignored due to either mediocre design or a failure to adequately capture the subject of a tribute. Combining on-location footage with interviews featuring various authors, historians, and social critics, Public Memory offers a compelling look at honoring the past while also ensuring that future generations never forget. Highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (P. Hall)
Public Memory: A Film About American Memorials
(2004) 68 min. VHS: $99.95: public libraries; $295: colleges & universities. The Cinema Guild. PPR. ISBN: 0-7815-1036-8. Volume 19, Issue 6
Public Memory: A Film About American Memorials
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