By Miguel Padilla
A presentation of the cult-classic supernatural horror film Fright Night was held on-campus last Thursday, as a part of San Bernardino Valley College's long-standing Horror Film Festival.
A panel of three faculty members help guide the experience – asking attendees to consider themes and motifs present in the films just prior to their viewings. The event promises students an evening of frights and of contemplation. Professor Todd Heibal, Joel Lamore, and SBVC’s social media coordinator Alejandra Aguilera began by prefacing the movie with an overview of the characters and the actors who portray them. Disclaimers were given beforehand – building the quietly-held anticipation of a small crowd eager to watch a fun horror flick. The panel of three ended their introduction by asking attendees to consider questions and ideas present in the movie, as lights dimmed and the film began.
The Festival has become a standing tradition in recent years, with Valley English Professor Daihim Fozouni organizing the event since its inception in 2015. As I sat in the amply-seated Library Viewing Room that Thursday evening, it was clear to see the professor’s enthusiasm and excitement as he spoke. The festival had taken on a brief hiatus in recent years, as covid restrictions had prevented most happenings on-campus, so the joy felt in its revival was still palpable. The festival is a testament to the love of film; a cinephile's paradise with a dash of academia.
The movie ended at 8:03 P.M., with a discussion held in posthaste. Students shared openly in the cold viewing room as they addressed each of the panelists’ questions. The festival not only provided a free screening of a film – it allowed students to learn from it, and reflect on what that might say about themselves.
The festival’s final movie – Steven-Speilberg’s cult-classic horror flick, Poltergeist, will begin screening at 6:00 P.M. at the Library Viewing Room on October 27th.
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