Just after VHS but before DVD's, the laserdisk was invented. This technology got filmmakers really excited because it was the first format that came even close to the picture quality of movie theater film. And thus began the letterbox wars which eventually created the 16:9 HDTV format. As Directors began to see their creative legacy get translated into multiple formats, they became concerned about possible hack jobs. And out of this concern, the Artists Rights Foundation was created.
This group of filmmakers established new protocols that did things like limit Turner Classic Movies from arbitrarily colorizing classic Black and White films. ARF also wrote one of the best filmmaking textbooks I've ever seen, complete with activities, worksheets, and suggested movie clips. You can download a PDF copy of "Making Movies: A Guide for Young Filmmakers"here
Turns out the Artist Rights Foundation merged with the Film Foundation back in 2002. Recently, the Film Foundation announced the launch of The Story of Movies, a clearinghouse for all kinds of curriculum. The goal is to give different teachers tools that will expose students to classic films. Is it any surprise that Turner Classic Movies is a co-sponsor?
[edutopia article on the site here]
