"Wild Dogs of Africa is a film by a perennial winner, Fred Harshbarger of Colton, Calif. Most of us have seen films made in Africa but this nine minutes is not about the "run-of-the-mill" African animals that one expects. Who would think of making a film about wild dogs? Well Fred did - and because of it we all know just a little more of that part of the world. Naturally it's in color and shot with the usual Harshbarger "know-how". Winning the Nature Award was a natural for this picture" PSA Journal, Nov. 1969, 56.
"Al Morton's "Wild Water and Bouncing Boats" takes us through Desolation and Gray Canyons on the Green River which flows into the great Colorado River. The Green River starts in northern Utah and joins the Colorado south of Arches Monument in Utah. The picture takes us down the Colorado as far as the Hoover Dam. The country abounds in desert and canyon scenery—to say it is spectacular is a display of modesty. There are canoes and other hand-powered craft on the turbulent rapids with upsets and the struggle to gain an island rock and the shore. There are craft equipped with outboard motors to drive it through turbulent waters and rapids. This film is packed with thrills for those who like rough water" PSA Journal, Nov. 1957, 33.
"A story of the natural wilderness, people, and mountains 200 miles from the sea, the wilderness alps of Stehekin in the North Cascade country. Brought into its scenic grandeur through the ages never the same, yet not to be changed by man. There are the wild gardens and glaciers high above the sea but far below the icecaps on Mt. Rainier, from time preceding us. A beautiful, relaxing retreat with a narration to be remembered for its refreshing call to the wilderness" PSA Journal, Nov. 1960, 42.
"Our man has been through a long, hard winter and with more snow on the way he goes to Florida. We visit many of the places and see and do the things vacationers like to do. We move from one interest to another and stay just long enough to like it. Our friend awakens from his Florida visit and sunburn, all from his over-long stay under the sun lamp. A delightful visit" PSA Journal, Nov. 1960, 40.
"Sidney Moritz likes to record the few vestiges that remain in this rapidly changing country of the days that were. After earlier voyages on an Ohio River "sternwheeler," he made two cruises on the Mattie, an old schooner that now hugs the New England coast and carries vacationers. In Windjammer there is cinematic beauty, with delightful scenes of masts and sails. There is also a detailed and very human record of the way in which the holiday makers — who also help with the ship's chores — enjoy a recreation both salty and salubrious. One is sure that they and the ship's crew — including grim old Captain Grant — had a grand time. Mr. Moritz must have had one, also, if his gay footage reflects his mood." Movie Makers, Dec. 1945, 497.
"Winged Hickory on the high snow-covered slopes in the area of Aspen, Colorado (not far from Denver) is a nostalgic piece of winter ski sports by Theodore H. Sarchin. Aspen is a famous old, deserted silver mining town that has been rejuvenated by ski enthusiasts taking advantage of the excellent slopes and weather conditions. The ski lift is the longest in the world. It requires 40 minutes to ride its full length, in two sections, to an elevation of 11,300 feet. There are beginner and novice trails and challenging slopes for the experienced skier. There are vistas of the towering snow-covered mountains as well as activities in camp. During one of the Gala Days, Mr. Sarchin photographed some unusually expert skiers, such as one on tall stilts, and four men on two long skis, sort of like four men on a horse. The beauty and grace of the skiers, speeding along with the snow feathering out behind, make the rugged beauty of the terrain an outstanding picture. The background music is well chosen and Mr. Sarchin's narration is adequate" PSA Journal, Nov. 1957, 53.
"Wire and Cable Manufacture, made by Robert F. Gowen, ACL, is a good example of what can be done with the presentation of heavy manufacturing processes. The many fine shots of large machines in motion as well as of rolling hot copper ingots were striking in their beauty. A careful record of the entire process of making a giant cable was worked out on short notice and was photographed in a short time. Many difficult lighting problems were overcome, and the result is an achievement that will do credit to the manufacturer's reputation and will add prestige to Mr. Gowen's cine fame." Movie Makers, Dec. 1935, 553, 555.
"The Wonder Trail, 1000 ft., 35mm., filmed by Ralph C. Wildes, has also met with the approval of professional critics, for it has been released as a professional short subject and has received general praise. One reviewer wrote, "The Wonder Trail is an unforgettable picture; the restful, sheer beauty of it is an experience in entertainment." This is high praise, indeed, for an amateur picture since it must be remembered that the reviewer was comparing it with the hundreds — even thousands — of professional short subjects released each year. It is a scenic built from sequences of the Grand Canyon, Yosemite and the Redwood forests of California. Its photography is superlatively good and rare artistic judgment was exercised in the selection of camera viewpoints to effect beautiful compositions and to emphasize the dramatic value of mountains, falls and trees. The quality of the film's continuity lies in the leisurely sequences which display skill and care in both planning and editing." Movie Makers, Dec. 1931, 658
"Wonderland Trails is a triumph of treatment over the subject matter. K. G. Stephens, ACL, has used with sensitive artistry the space and time saving devices of closeup synecdoche, lap dissolve and the fade in, telling his charming tale of a mountain hike that went astray. On this simple framework he has presented a series of lovely scenic views, always well photographed and often superior in their crisp beauty. Smart editing serves throughout to reinforce the values of this film, which is distinguished by an imaginative and careful advance planning." Movie Makers, Dec. 1933, 523.
"Wood block printing is one of the highest forms of art in Japan. It was first introduced into that country 2000 years ago, from China. With hammer and chisel, various cuts are made in the wood block to create the pattern to be printed. A separate block is cut for each hue. The form of each block is inked and impressed upon the paper or cloth or obtain the complete print. The picture takes us gently stimulate our interest in the art of wood block printing. we are privileged to see some of the exquisite prints. The narrator's voice with its oriental flavor adds a delightful touch to the picture. This will be included in the Package" PSA Journal, Oct. 1962, 34.
Total Pages: 36
Amateur Cinema