Films Inducted

Library of Congress

The Library of Congress is adding 25 more classic American films to its national registry, which includes two films with a strong USC connection. "The National Film Registry seeks not only to honor these films, but to ensure that they are preserved for future generations to enjoy," said Librarian of Congress James H. Billington in a statement.

The Naked City (1948) - written by retired SCA professor Malvin Wald

During the oral narration of the credits at the opening, we are told this is a different kind of movie; not filmed on a Hollywood back lot but on actual locations in New York City.  Winning Oscars for best photography (William Daniels) and editing (Paul Weatherwax) and nominated for best writing (Malvin Wald), this cutting-edge, gritty crime procedural introduced a new style of film-making. The Naked City offers up slices of several stories, building and dove-tailing into a logical solution with a heart-pounding resolution.

Based on six months of interviews with the NYPD and using three-dimensional characters, it changed the way police were portrayed in film and how crimes were solved. Another unique aspect of Mark Hellinger’s production and Jules Dassin’s direction was to hire local radio and theater actors new to film – it launched several character-acting careers.

Peege (1972)

Director Randal Kleiser '68 (Grease) crafted this renowned, extremely moving student film while at the University of Southern California.  Members of a family visit their blind, dying grandmother Peege at a nursing home, but leave in despair at her condition.  Remaining behind, the grandson recounts memories to Peege and manages to connect emotionally with the lonely woman and bring a smile to her face. Kleiser earned his MA from the school in 1974.

More Information
http://www.loc.gov/today/pr/2007/07-254.html