Thank you so much for yet another fantastic weekend of films. I was delighted to watch eight documentaries over the two-day period. Plus, there was the fun of being surrounded by like-minded folks who love film, love talking about film and love nothing more than to be in a darkened movie theater watching movies.
However, Sidewalk, I have to admit, I am worried. I am worried that in the afterglow of such a wonderful 13th year, you will be tempted to over indulge. To gorge yourself on your success and lose sight of what makes you so wonderful year after year. I worry because I watched this very thing happen with another good friend of mine – City Stages. It was devastating to watch helplessly as City Stages slowly but surely moved away from what made it special so that it simply collapsed under the weight of its own excess.
It was just three short years ago that you were all about films all the time (and, yes, the terrific parties). Then last year you decided to experiment with some sideline entertainment and a food vendor or two. It was an okay effort but nothing to crow about and even I criticized the food vendors for being non-existent around noon on a Saturday.
But this year the whole “sideline” idea was taken to another level with the introduction of Sidewalk Central – an area carved out specifically for music and food. I enjoyed myself to a certain extent, although I have to say I am always amazed at food vendors who set up shop at these types of events and run out of food. But even as I enjoyed myself, I found myself disturbed by the notion that I was being drawn away from the real reason I attended Sidewalk – to see movies.
As you know, that’s what you are all about, really. A great way for film lovers to get together with filmmakers and others to enjoy documentaries, narratives, shorts, and animation in intimate environs. Your strength comes from the knowledge that you are focused on one thing and one thing only – film.
My concern is that you have been tempted to stray from this focus and to dabble in musical acts and food vendors. I am asking you to please stay focused on what it is that makes you special – to me and others. Love of film. Don’t get distracted by the siren call of a musical stage or too many food vendors or monkeys riding pigs (okay, I’ll be honest, I would probably drop in to see that).
Right now, it’s just a small worry but it’s one that I felt compelled to bring to your attention. I think you’re great, Sidewalk, and I humbly ask the you stay true to who you are. All about film. All the time.
Sincerely,
Bret Pippen
Film Fan
1 comment:
Hmm. Personally I thought Sidewalk Central enhanced the Sidewalk experience, not distract from it. All told, I watched 9 films over the weekend, but of course I still had times where I needed to eat and/or kill time. Why not have an area that provides food and entertainment for those instances?
As far as a loss of focus goes, I think it says something that the entertainment choice at Sidewalk Central on Saturday night was in fact a movie.
I enjoyed Sidewalk Central and would hate to see it go.
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