Cornell is home to so many amazing attractions that it can be hard to keep track of them all. There are countless things that you would never expect to find, that can be found on our campus: an observatory, geological exhibits, an archive of century-old maps and a collection of antique keyboards, all within walking distance of your dorm. While Cornell offers many rare opportunities to explore new and unexpected interests, it also has lots of underappreciated facilities that everyone knows about but are seldom frequented.
One of my main goals as a Cornell student is endeavoring to live my college years like a video game, unlocking every metaphorically playable character, map and icon as I partake in my 100% completion run of my Cornell experience. Along this quest, I decided to explore more of Cornell’s facilities, many of which I do not visit nearly enough. With so many opportunities for campus involvement and countless boxes to check off, I decided there was no better place to start than a day at the movies. My first stop on this adventure was the Cornell Cinema.
I had previously been aware of the Cornell Cinema, as I often meandered past it during my time spent in Willard Straight Hall participating in other activities. However, I had never really gotten the full experience up until this point. Founded in 1970, the Cornell Cinema was created as an opportunity for students to become more exposed to the art of filmmaking. In its 50 years of existence, the Cornell Cinema has hosted more than 500 actors, directors, producers, film experts, animators, writers and other occupations who play a significant role in bringing these stories to life. The Cornell Cinema projects more than 75 films a semester, ranging from modern comedies and dramas, all the way to silent films and historical documentaries. Iconic films like The Godfather, Imitation of Life and Sinners are all films that have been featured this semester. I personally had the opportunity to experience a wonderful documentary called Remembering Gene Wilder and then sit in on a Q&A with one of the film’s creators, Glenn Kirschbaum.
When you first walk in, you are greeted by the concessions stand and box office area, which has a very classic, cozy charm to it. Once you walk into the actual theater, it is hard not to be impressed by the large murals that fill the walls and the old-fashioned carvings and grand archways that make you feel like you are about to experience an ancient Greek tragedy. The screen itself is also very impressive, with large curtains and a stage with a vast apron, which adds an immersive element, creating a feeling of connection between you and the screen.
While attending, I noticed a wide variety of theatergoers, including students, faculty, professors, younger adults and locals — all coming together to enjoy the silver screen as one community. This experience reminded me how fun going to the movies can be, letting you turn your brain off for a couple of hours as you become immersed in the story unfolding before you. Despite our differences, when the lights dimmed, we all laughed, gasped, and oohed and ahhed the same as one audience. When the lights turned back on, I tried to think of the last time I had enjoyed an in-person movie theater experience. It had been a while, and it dawned on me that this former favorite pastime of mine has become a forgotten activity.
Although some of the movies released recently have been among the best I have seen in a while, my desire to go to the movie theater hasn’t been at its highest. In the age of digital streaming and online piracy, it is becoming increasingly clear that the general interest in being a moviegoer has declined. Yet this experience has reminded me just how fun a trip to the movies can be and has inspired me to check out more local theaters in the greater Ithaca area. In a world where contemporary technology often reduces the need for in-person experiences, timeless spots like the Cornell Cinema serve as refreshing reminders of how fun and awesome classic pastimes can be.
Jared Miller is a sophomore in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. He can be reached at jmm792@cornell.edu.
