This program will include 16mm film prints I acquired from various sources since the early 1970’s. Most often my purchasing guide was early release dates – the earlier the better I kept telling myself – closer to the Big Bang! And then also films by Méliès as well as titles or descriptions that attracted my curiosity. Why early cinema? Early cinema was sometimes silly, crude, primitive, occasionally even wild, like the actions of an energetic impulsive child left to its own devices. Of course, in its youthful naivety it badly mimicked what older “kids” had been doing better… but it also took chances, was adventurous, and oblivious to danger. Here and there it would run amok, be a daredevil, and in the process discover some of its own potentials. What is there to lose? See where that takes you. Méliès? Yes, but there is much more to it. Additional titles may be added to this program at the last minute. Not to be missed. – Ernie Gehr