Now Playing in the LRC

Subscribing to Netflix has its benefits. Something I have enjoyed are Instant movies, the ability to stream videos and watch them at my convenience. Not only that, but Netflix makes recommendations based on my interests.

Luckily, Netflix suggested four movies that I greatly enjoyed, not only for entertainment, but also for inspiration, education, and enlightenment. But if you don't subscribe to Netlix, don't worry. All four are now available in the LRC. And here they are in no particular order.

Although you may not know who Milton Glaser is, you certainly know his work. Most recognizable is the "I (heart) NY" logo. I first heard about him by watching Helvetica when Paula Scher talks about how she admired his work at Push Pin Studios. Glaser is a classic designer—it's certainly worth knowing about his work, ideas, and influence.

Before I was an art major, I took a trip to NYC with my college's art department. Along the way, we went through Philly and stopped to see the Barnes Foundation. Little did I know about all of the politics and battles going on for this incredible, formerly private, collection. Art history majors, this one goes out to you.

This movie is somewhat like Helvetica, but more about advertising campaigns. And not just ordinary ads, but the most memorable ones of all time. The idea is that finally someone came to the conclusion that they should put the writers together with the artists to better design campaigns. Some memorable ones: Volkswagen Beetle, Nike's Just Do It, Apple Macintosh, Reagan's re-election TV commercial.

Lastly, if you're familiar with the Steinway Concert D that was donated to the college and if you like woodworking, I think you'll enjoy this documentary about the process of handcrafting one of the most classic instruments of our time. The subject is approached from a number of angles: from the people who craft it to the ones who play them. I believe we're quite fortunate to have ours, and it's fascinating to see how they come into being.

Prof. Darrell Kincer