During this time of isolation, the American Film Institute has decided to launch the AFI Movie Club, which is designed to be “a daily virtual gathering to leverage our collective love of film on behalf of optimism in this time of global uncertainty.”
Director Steven Spielberg, who is an AFI Trustee and 1995 recipient of the AFI Life Achievement Award, introduced the new club today saying that to become a member, all you have to do is to love movies! He also revealed that the first movie that was chosen for the club to watch is the legendary 1939 classic The Wizard of Oz. In the video below, he explains why that’s the debut film that was chosen:
“I know you think you’ve seen it, but please think again because right now at this moment in our history what better message is there then ‘There’s no place like home’? ”
AFI will select an iconic movie every day for movie fans around the world to watch together, in an effort to create a communal viewing experience during these crazy times of social distancing. Audiences can continue the conversation online using the hashtag #AFIMovieClub.
There will be a variety of other guest hosts who will select and announce the AFI Movies of the Day in videos posted on AFI.com and social media platforms. To watch the featured movie of the day with the use of your preexisting streaming services, go to AFI.com/MovieClub.
According to Deadline, “the organization will be doing this every day for the foreseeable future and will be digging out tons of great exclusive archive material to add to the experience. This will include ‘fun facts and family discussion points.’”
AFI president and CEO Bob Gazzale said, “AFI’s goal is to live in a world of art above anxiety. We’re honored to have Steven Spielberg, the greatest storyteller of our day, lead the way.”
Will you be joining in on the movie watching fun!?