A Few Thoughts on the Oughts

This past decade will hold a special place in my mind (film-wise, that is). It was during this time that I “came of age” in the world of cinema. I began scouring the pages of the Internet Movie Database, soaking up all the information I could. It really became a kind of addiction – one that continues to this day. (I’m not sure I want to know how many hours I spent combing through the filmographies of various filmmakers over the years.) I also began reading reviews and commentary on film. It interested me to hear from different perspectives and learn how others constructed their viewpoints. And while I valued the “critical” opinion on films, it was important for me to make up my own mind.

So, the films released this decade became of great interest to me. I started viewing them differently than I had previously; from a more critical point-of-view. I think 2002 was a turning point as I began going out of my way to see films that others had little interest in. Even if it meant going by myself, I felt compelled to view films like Adaptation and The Hours. This path led me down a fascinating road filled with films as wide-ranging as can be imagined.

While I spent time waiting for new releases, I also caught up with many films from decades past. With the advent of Netflix, there’s no limit to how many films are available and I take full advantage of it. As my knowledge of film progressed, the more I enjoyed the artform and I desired to learn even more. That desire led me to study film at the University of Oklahoma, eventually earning a Film and Video Studies degree.

So, yeah, I guess films have had a large impact on my life and will probably continue to do so. I’ll continue viewing and writing about them so long as my enthusiasm for the subject holds up.