Chattanooga Pulse

Hamilton County Bicentennial Library Director David Clapp presents an international sampling of cinema in his ongoing “Flick’s Café” series featuring 1950’s films. Clapp believes that films of that decade are “more direct in their presentation of new ideas.”

Film art in its second century still contends with basically divergent perspectives, even as its technological and stylistic maturation make possible the realization of ever more imaginative visions. How can a filmgoer appreciate the value of a film when most films bring such impressive visuality to theaters?

Clapp believes it’s important for folks to pay attention to film detail in order to develop a more complex understanding of their own reality. He also believes that writer/directors create better films. Clapp brings his own artist’s sensitivity to select films for his series. Consequently, those who attend these films not only enjoy a relaxed presentation, but they also find the time for discussion of those films’ qualities.

The next film in this series is Early Summer by Japanese director Yasujiro Ozu. Upcoming films include Federico Fellini’s famous La Strada and Ingmar Bergman’s Wild Strawberries. All of these directors have been included in Janus Film’s 2006 DVD box and book Essential Art House: 50 Years of Janus Films. The book sees La Strada  (1954) “as an international phenomenon.” I cannot sufficiently stress how being in the presence of such great films improves both one’s sensitivity to the medium and one’s acuity with respect to reality—the illusive medium of our own lives.

As an art community, Chattanooga shows harmony in that the director of the library, an artist himself, takes time to help people appreciate the complex art of film. Clapp was once apprenticed to an artist, and he became a portrait painter. His college studies included film. Clapp began as assistant director of the library in 1989, and he has been director since 2002. Clapp’s “Flick’s Café” series started about a year and a half ago.

Clapp’s deep appreciation of film covers a broad range. He also follows his interests in plays and poetry. He finds film a poetic medium because of its emphasis on image and montage. Although Clapp believes better films tend to be made by writer/directors, he dislikes the term “auteur”, because its usage tends toward elitism. If one pays attention to film, one can find a good deal of quality across the board.

As more and more film is produced, the hierarchical perceptions concerning film become less important. This profusion of film also impels viewers toward a better awareness of this medium. Film has a rich history and knowledge of that history can be invaluable when one enters the digital theater.

“Flick’s Café” events take place in the main auditorium at the central library downtown. Films are shown through DVD projection in a comfortable environment. There is a suggested donation of $1 for the film. Desserts are also for sale, and coffee is provided. Although some films may contain mature themes, the movies shown at “Flick’s Café” can be watched by kids. Also look for the Sunday afternoon film showings, now that the library has Sunday hours.

Flick’s Café 1950’s Film Series
$1 suggested donation
6 p.m. doors open, 6:30 p.m film starts
Tuesday nights through January 5
Hamilton County Bicentennial Library
(central downtown)
1001 Broad Street
(423) 757-5310. www.lib.chattanooga.gov