Page:United States Statutes at Large Volume 105 Part 3.djvu/556

 105 STAT. 2440 CONCURRENT RESOLUTIONS—NOV. 15, 1991 Nov. 15, 1991 MOTION PICTURES—ONE-HUNDREDTH [H. Con. Res. 161] ANNIVERSARY Whereas in the late 19th century inventors around the world focused on discovering a means of artificially reproducing movement so that it appeared to viewers that they were actually seeing the movement as it occurred; Whereas this discovery led to the emergence of the art and science of motion pictures through the work of many creators in the United States and other countries; Whereas during this period the technology necessary to create motion pictures was perfected in a series of exciting American inventions, which included the development of the kinetograph and kinetoscope by Thomas Edison and W.K.L. Dickson, and the perfection of strip film by George Eastman; Whereas the cycle of invention, innovation and improvement continued without pause during the 1890's with the construction of Thomas Edison's first film studio, dubbed the "Black Maria", and in 1893 a series of technological innovations marked a turning point in the development of the motion picture; Whereas the first commercial presentation of Edison's kinetoscope by the Holland Brothers in New York City demonstrated the public's fascination with motion pictures, and as the demand for kinetoscope films grew, Edison's invention was marketed internationaly; Whereas motion pictures have the power to touch our hearts, souls, and imaginations, and shape our hopes, dreams, and even our national consciousness; Whereas the motion picture serves as America's ambassador to the world, conveying American values, beliefs, styles, and attitudes, transforming world culture with its potent images and making the global village a reality; Whereas motion picture production is not only art but also one of America's most successful creative enterprises; and Whereas the motion picture has entrenched our cultural heritage with unforgettable characters who have become American icons, from Harold Lloyd, Charlie Chaplin, and the Marx Brothers to the immortal Garbo and the eternal Lillian Gish, from Bogie and Bacall, John Wayne, Sidney Poitier and Cicely Tyson to Indiana Jones, E.T., and the thousands of other larger-than-life men and women who commanded the silver screen, and from these legends are precious film moments that are forever etched in our memories and imaginations: Now, therefore, be it Resolved by the House of Representatives (the Senate concurring). That it is the sense of the Congress that— (1) all Americans should have the opportunity to celebrate the 100th anniversary of film in 1993 with exhibitions, festivals, educational programs and other forms of observance; and (2) the Nation's media art centers should be recognized as having a leadership role in implementing and coordinating national centennial celebrations and in organizing other events relating to the 100th anniversary of this great American art form. Agreed to November 15, 1991.

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