Whether it is in a theater or on a home television, everyone loves movies! In fact, films have become such a huge part of our culture that in some cases they can be seen as problematic…especially in the classroom. But what often gets overlooked is the science and technology that goes into the movie magic. Fortunately this movie magic plays the lead role in the Behind the Screen exhibit at the Museum of the Moving Image!
Divided into two floors, Behind the Screen is a great look at all that goes on in the film industry both in front and behind the camera. The first section of the exhibit (located on the second floor of the museum) is a tribute to all that you actually get to see on the silver screen. Actors, directors, scripts, scores, make-up, and more are on display everywhere you look.
A wall of headshots of famous actors from Hollywood’s golden age ushers you in, followed by a video tribute of the most memorable scenes created by directors. Around the corner are the most memorable lines in film history, from the 1939 classic that brought “There’s no place like home” to the more recent “May the force be with you.” Elaborate displays of make-up line the walls with fantastic and memorable characters. Miniature sets of favorite places and lavish movie theaters, and a station for listening to famous film scores are among the last stops on this level.
The second level of the exhibit (on the third floor of the museum) focuses primarily on the behind-the-scenes aspect of the movies. This section begins with the origins of moving pictures. Optical illusions and the earliest special effects are included. I think my favorite part is the viewing stands with short films by Charlie Chaplin and Méliès. Interactive stations allow visitors to try their hand at animation or make a personal flip book (the earliest form of the moving picture). Demonstrations in video, sound, and live editing are done by museum staff. Cameras and televisions from throughout the years are also on display, with explanations of the technology behind each.
Students encounter movies and tv everyday. Sometimes that gets taken for granted, especially in the classroom, where they are discouraged in light of studying and reading. But in the Behind the Screen exhibit allows for movies and television to be transformed into learning tools! The exhibit beautifully displays the movie itself as a something more than a leisure activity, but rather as a product of technology and a basis for learning about that technology. In my opinion it deserves two thumbs up!
