In an exciting announcement last week, Carla Hayden, the Librarian of Congress, revealed the latest additions to the 2023 Library of Congress National Film Registry. This prestigious selection of films, chosen for their cultural, historic, or aesthetic significance, continues to honor and preserve the rich tapestry of American cinema heritage.
What makes this year’s lineup truly remarkable is its diversity, both in terms of themes and cinematic styles. The chosen films span over a century of cinematic history, from the 1921 Kodak educational film A Movie Trip Through Filmland to more recent classics like 12 Years a Slave and the documentary gem 20 Feet from Stardom, both from 2013.
Notably, the registry doesn’t limit itself to just independent or low-budget productions. This year’s inductees feature a mix of Hollywood releases that have left an indelible mark on the industry. From the gripping space drama Apollo 13 to the perennial holiday favorite Home Alone and even Disney’s beloved animation Lady and the Tramp, there’s something for every film enthusiast.
However, for those who prefer a more independent and creative approach to filmmaking, there’s Love & Basketball, a timeless classic that continues to inspire audiences with its captivating love story.
With these new additions, the National Film Registry now boasts an impressive 875 films, each a piece of America’s cultural heritage. Some of these treasures reside in the Library’s two million moving image collection, while others are preserved by dedicated copyright holders and film archives.
“…chosen for their cultural, historic, or aesthetic significance…”
In Carla Hayden’s words, “Films are an integral piece of America’s cultural heritage, reflecting stories of our nation for more than 125 years. We are proud to add 25 diverse films to the National Film Registry as we preserve our history through film. We’re grateful to the film community for collaborating with the Library of Congress in our goal to preserve the heritage of cinema for generations to come.”
To celebrate this cinematic achievement, Turner Classic Movies (TCM) hosted a special television event featuring a selection of films newly inducted into the registry, and viewers can look forward to engaging in discussions with Carla Hayden and Jacqueline Stewart, film historian and Chair of the National Film Preservation Board.
This year’s selections, as Jacqueline Stewart highlights, showcase the “breadth of experiences in American culture, in American history.” It’s worth noting that the registry recognizes a diversity of Asian American experiences with films like Cruisin’ J-Town and the Bohulano Family Film Collection.
For those eager to experience these cinematic treasures firsthand, the Library plans to screen two newly selected holiday films at Live! at the Library in December. Mark your calendars for The Nightmare Before Christmas on Dec. 21 at 6:30 p.m. and Home Alone on Dec. 28 at 6:30 p.m. Free timed-entry passes are available at loc.gov/visit.
If you can’t make it to the screenings, don’t worry. A selection of films from the National Film Registry’s 35-year history is freely accessible online in the National Screening Room. Join the conversation about the 2023 National Film Registry on social media platforms by following @librarycongress.
In a world often dominated by big-budget Hollywood productions, the National Film Registry reminds us of the wealth of creativity and diversity that independent and classic films bring to our cinematic tapestry. It’s a testament to the enduring power of storytelling in all its forms.
Films Selected for the 2023 National Film Registry
(chronological order)
- A Movie Trip Through Filmland (1921)
- Dinner at Eight (1933)
- Bohulano Family Film Collection (1950s-1970s)
- Helen Keller: In Her Story (1954)
- Lady and the Tramp (1955)
- Edge of the City (1957)
- We’re Alive (1974)
- Cruisin’ J-Town (1975)
- ¡Alambrista! (1977)
- Passing Through (1977)
- Fame (1980)
- Desperately Seeking Susan (1985)
- The Lighted Field (1987)
- Matewan (1987)
- Home Alone (1990)
- Queen of Diamonds (1991)
- Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991)
- The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
- The Wedding Banquet (1993)
- Maya Lin: A Strong Clear Vision (1994)
- Apollo 13 (1995)
- Bamboozled (2000)
- Love & Basketball (2000)
- 12 Years a Slave (2013)
- 20 Feet from Stardom (2013)
Public Nominations for the National Film Registry
The public submitted 6,875 titles for consideration this year. Several titles selected this year drew significant support, including Home Alone and Terminator 2: Judgment Day.
The public can submit nominations throughout the year on the Library’s website. Nominations for next year will be accepted until Aug. 15, 2024. Cast your vote at loc.gov/film.
