Masland Library Blog

Before we dive into the essence of this article, take a moment to describe what you think the function of the Masland Library is. You will probably recall the heavy coursework of this past semester’s homework that you diligently completed in the library and decide that the Masland Library is a place for students to read books, research, and write papers. While this is the primary function of the library, I want to propose the library can be thought of as something else:  a resource for social entertainment. Mind you, the Masland Library is not where the social entertainment should take place, but we do have a number DVD’s, CD’s, and books ideal for your social affairs. Therefore, I have compiled a list of some of the Masland Library’s finest materials so that you may realize the full potential of this library as a resource for social entertainment. This blog will focus on movies and will be followed by two more blogs on music and books for social entertainment.

Movies

                 

Few people realize that behind the front desk at the Masland Library are many movies that people watch for recreational purposes. Besides documentaries, educational films, and operas there are 150 recreational films. Below I have highlighted some of the library’s best films according to genre. Check one out the next time you visit the library!

These operas are only 5 of about 100 operas the Masland Library has on DVD. You might have to be a true musical geek to check them out. If not, watch one anyway and consider yourself cultured.

Musicals – Sound of Music, Singin’ in the Rain

Do not underestimate the entertainment of a musical put into film. It may not have the same feel as a live performance, but remember the cast had unlimited tries to perfect each scene.

Westerns – Stagecoach, The Alamo

                

 Westerns might not be everyone’s thing, but try widening your horizons with these two films.

Classic books turned into films – 12 Angry Men, Pride and Prejudice, Death of a Salesman, Grapes of Wrath

The books are called “classics” for a reason. These are sure to be worth the time to watch with your friends. Follow up by discussing how the film answers the enduring questions.

Disney – Snow White, Enchanted

For all Disney fans, be sure to enjoy yourselves with these two Disney favorites. Feel free to sing along.

Science Fiction – The Original Star Wars Trilogy, The Matrix, Minority Report, Planet of the Apes

If you have not watched Star Wars by now, the time has come. The original trilogy made significant advances in the use of special effects and drastically shaped our culture. Any of these four sci-fi movies are a good choice for your movie night.

War – Gods and Generals, Saving Private Ryan, Schindler’s List, The Hunt for Red October

Experience some of the world’s 19^th and 20^th century wars through these popular historical war films. I daresay Schindler’s List will draw a tear or two.

Drama – The Truman Show (Satire, Comedy), Fireproof (Christian), Stranger Than Fiction (Comedy), Cast Away (Adventure), The Passion of the Christ (Religion, History)

These drama films really have little in common (hence the secondary genres in parenthesis) but they are all quality films that deserve your attention. They are more “moving” than “exciting.”

Biographical film – Finding Neverland, A Beautiful Mind, A River Runs Through it, Gandhi

All of these films are also drama pieces but they are based on real people from the real world. Learn to see life through someone else’s eyes.

The Lord of the Rings Trilogy

Yes, the library does indeed have all three The Lord of the Rings movies. These movies are so fantastic I decided to separate them from the others in this list. We can only hope the library will add the new The Hobbit movies to the collection.