Cinephilia

A refreshing cool retreat from the summertime heat of South Texas can be found by viewing a film in a movie theater or on your personal entertainment system. Two film reference sources available anytime, any day to the St. Mary's University community through the Gale Virtual Reference Library can provide more scholarly information than one might find through the Internet Movie Database.

The International Dictionary of Films and Filmmakers provides thorough coverage of films and filmmakers, including legendary films, actors and actresses, directors, writers and other production artists. Entries include a detailed essay written by an expert, biographies, filmographies, comprehensive credits, and major awards. Entries also contain extensive references to books and journal, magazine, and newspaper articles. In print, this publication is 5,706 pages contained in 4 volumes. The 4th edition was published in 2000 and contains numerous photographs.

Another film source, Schirmer Encyclopedia of Film (2007), provides a comprehensive and accessible introduction to film and film studies, covering such aspects as production, national traditions, studios, genres, critical theory and film history. This source is useful for those looking at themes or background on terms, such as cinephilia. In print, this publication is 2,136 pages contained in 4 volumes. It was named an Outstanding Reference Source in 2008 by the American Library Association’s Reference and User Services Association Collection Development and Evaluation Section.

Access these resources from the cool comfort of your home or office and impress your friends with your understanding of film theory or background film knowledge!