Why Confronting Gaps in Your Film Knowledge is a Good Thing

Every film enthusiast knows that it’s almost impossible to watch everything that has ever been made. As someone who has developed a bit of a reputation for admitting to having never seen certain classic films, I’ve been reflecting on my own film knowledge gap. This article explores why acknowledging and facing one's biases or omissions in film viewing can be a positive and enlightening journey.

Common Classics I Haven't Seen

One of the most revered films in cinematic history, Tokyo Story, has been conspicuously absent from my filmography. While many critics and viewers hold it in such high regard, I admit that I haven’t made the time to watch it. It’s a film that consistently makes top-ten lists, and perhaps I should look into it to fully appreciate its greatness.

Another common omission is the 1982 autobiographical film Diner. While I’ve been fortunate enough to see several clips that have piqued my curiosity, I’ve never managed to pull out enough time to watch the entire movie. Recognizing that there are films I’ve missed is an important step towards expanding my appreciation for cinema.

Other classics that I lack in my viewing list include:

The Godfather Casablanca Scarface Rocky (1976) Back to the Future The Shawshank Redemption The Terminator Forest Gump Ferris Bueller's Day Off ET: The Extra-Terrestrial North by Northwest The African Queen One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest 3ificador, or the Holy Seat Blade Runner The Seventh Seal Groundhog Day Alien A Touch of Evil

While I might not feel ashamed about admitting that I haven't seen these films, I do recognize the importance of expanding one’s film knowledge. With the vast array of films available, it’s important to not let personal biases prevent one from experiencing the rich tapestry of cinema.

Exploring Curious Omissions

When it comes to film genres, there are some areas that I have not explored fully. For example, gangster and mob boss movies are not particularly appealing to me, which has kept films like The Godfather off my viewing list. However, it’s important to note that these biases can prevent you from discovering new favorites.

I have always had a lingering curiosity about films like Fran?ois Truffaut's Day for Night and Andrei Tarkovsky's Solaris. Despite my brother and father being huge fans, my personal taste has steered me away from these films. However, the fact that they’ve intrigued me enough to list them signifies a desire to broaden my film horizons.

Finding Solace in Acknowledgment

Acknowledging that you haven't seen certain films—or indeed, any film—can be liberating. It’s a chance to recognize that our tastes are unique and that it’s okay to have omissions in one’s film library. Instead of feeling guilty, it’s more constructive to see these gaps as opportunities for growth and exploration.

Instead of shame, here are some tips to help you effectively confront these gaps:

Research and discover new genres or subgenres that may interest you. Join film clubs or online communities to get recommendations and tips from other enthusiasts. Set realistic goals and timelines to help you tackle your film knowledge gap gradually. Watch retrospectives or documentaries to learn more about the films you're curious about. Use digital platforms like streaming services and video on demand to make watching movies more accessible.

By confronting these gaps, you can enrich your film knowledge, broaden your perspective, and discover new favorite films along the way. So, whether you’re a seasoned film enthusiast or just starting out, there’s no shame in admitting that you haven't seen every movie under the sun. Embrace the journey of discovery, one film at a time!