Film Screening
Friday, November 15, 2024
Screening:
7 - 8:30 PM PST
Main Gallery
Free to Members and the Public
Join us for an illuminating evening exploring the pioneering work of underground filmmaker Bob Mizer through five digitally preserved films from the 1970s. Previously locked away on fragile 16mm film, these rare works showcase Mizer's distinctive artistic vision and his significant contribution to queer cinema. Our presenting intern will share insights into the meticulous preservation process, discussing the technical challenges and discoveries made while working with these historic materials at the museum's film archive. This intimate screening offers a unique opportunity to witness these restored works while examining their place in experimental film history and LGBTQ+ cultural heritage.
Step into the world of groundbreaking underground cinema with an evening dedicated to the pioneering work of Bob Mizer, one of the most influential yet underappreciated figures in queer filmmaking. On this special night, we will unveil five digitally restored films from the 1970s, each carefully preserved from Mizer's original, delicate 16mm film reels. These works, long hidden away due to their fragile state, reflect Mizer’s inimitable artistic vision and his crucial contributions to the landscape of queer cinema and experimental film.
Mizer's films are more than just cinematic pieces; they are vibrant cultural artifacts that speak to a transformative era in LGBTQ+ history. Known for his bold storytelling, unflinching representation of marginalized identities, and a visual style that was both provocative and poetic, Mizer's work occupies a vital place in the history of experimental filmmaking. His unapologetic exploration of themes surrounding identity, desire, and power broke new ground, creating a visual language that continues to inspire artists today.
Our screening will not only showcase Mizer's artistry but also delve into the painstaking preservation journey that brought these films back to life. Our presenting intern, Micah Hart, an integral part of the museum’s film archive team, will guide you through the intricate restoration process. Over months of work, the team overcame numerous technical challenges, including handling the delicate film reels, digitizing the footage with modern scanning equipment, and maintaining the authenticity of the original imagery and sound. Micah will share behind-the-scenes insights, recounting unexpected discoveries and the deep sense of responsibility felt while working with such culturally and historically significant material.
This intimate evening offers much more than just a screening—it’s a chance to engage with Mizer’s legacy and understand the broader context of his work within experimental film history and LGBTQ+ cultural heritage. Each film provides a window into a unique moment in time, blending artistry and advocacy in ways that resonate powerfully today. As you watch, you’ll witness the beauty of Mizer’s compositions, the audacity of his narratives, and the humanity of his subjects, all captured in vivid detail thanks to the museum's meticulous preservation efforts.
Beyond the screen, the event serves as a platform for reflection and dialogue. What can Mizer's work teach us about resistance, representation, and the evolution of queer cinema? How do these restored films bridge the past and present, offering insights into the ongoing fight for visibility and equality? Through this exploration, we aim to deepen our understanding of Mizer’s enduring impact and celebrate his role in shaping the narrative of LGBTQ+ history.
Join us for this rare opportunity to experience the rediscovered films of Bob Mizer in a setting that honors his legacy and preserves his vision for future generations. Whether you’re a film enthusiast, a history buff, or simply curious about the transformative power of art, this event promises to be an evening of discovery, reflection, and inspiration. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this remarkable journey into the heart of queer cinematic history.