A Hidden Jewel in the Midwest
While Hollywood may be the glamorous epicenter of the film industry, a surprising repository of its history lies nestled in the heart of America. UW–Madison’s Wisconsin Center for Film and Theater Research (WCFTR) is a veritable treasure chest of entertainment artifacts that draws scholars, researchers, and movie buffs from every corner of the globe. Unbeknownst to many, this center has quietly preserved the legacy of film, theater, and broadcasting for over 65 years.
Jurassic Park Origins and More
To fanatics of cinema history, the allure of handling the original “Jurassic Park” screenplay is undeniable. Nestled in Box 1, Folder 15 of the David Koepp Papers at the WCFTR, this and other treasures are safely kept within UW–Madison, thanks to Koepp’s trust in his alma mater. With a collection that includes scripts from classics like “Mission: Impossible” and “War of the Worlds,” the WCFTR is more than just an archive; it’s an encapsulation of multiple cinematic epochs.
A Digital Future for Film History
While the physical archive captures the tactile history of entertainment, the WCFTR’s digital footprint widens access to film aficionados everywhere. Available 24⁄7, the Media History Digital Library offers millions of pages of historical content online for free, enabling anyone to delve into the rich tapestry of Hollywood’s past. Boyd Hillestad, a media technician, diligently digitizes 35mm films in Vilas Hall, ensuring that Hollywood’s golden eras are just a click away.
A Legacy Cemented By Partnerships
The remarkable compilation at WCFTR was born out of a 1960 alliance with the Wisconsin Historical Society. This partnership gifted them with the United Artists collection, spanning five decades of cinematic history. Thomas Doherty, a celebrated film scholar, emphasized the foresight of UW–Madison in conserving these treasures when other universities dismissed Hollywood’s cultural significance.
Sustaining a Legacy Amid Financial Strain
However, the WCFTR is currently confronting financial hurdles, with federal funding for crucial projects facing cuts. Yet director Eric Hoyt, alongside his dedicated team, remains optimistic. Initiatives like Project Ballyhoo exemplify their innovative approach, marrying technology with archival duty, and are crucial for the center’s ongoing digitization mission.
Forging Ahead with Philanthropy
Despite the uncertainties of federal backing, philanthropy offers a hopeful avenue. Hoyt affirms that while financial equations might shift, the dedication to making these cultural chronicles accessible and preserved remains steadfast, bolstered by the determination to adapt and thrive.
The Wisconsin Center for Film and Theater Research is not just a collection; it’s a beacon for historical insight and imagination made possible by a university’s early recognition of the arts. The story of WCFTR is a testament to the value of preserving cultural heritage, reminding us of the narratives yet to be uncovered. As stated in University of Wisconsin–Madison, this repository continues to inspire by shedding light on the shadows of the past to illuminate our present and future.
