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November 1994, Week 4

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Subject:
From:
Neil Pollock <[log in to unmask]>
Reply To:
Film and TV Studies Discussion List <[log in to unmask]>
Date:
Tue, 22 Nov 1994 12:30:08 CST
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----------------------------Original message----------------------------
I agree with Brian McIlroy - that Film Literature Index (FLI) is a
wonderful resource. The point of my posting, following discussion of
CD-ROM databases, specifically Motion Picture Guide, and with ocassional
references to Cinemania, was to encourage people to look more widely.
Yes, to have FLI as a CD-ROM database would be a real boon - I'm sure
it's on it's way. I also agree that the British Film Institute's Film
Index International (FII) is expensive. However a colleague informs me
that the price recently dropped by one third. The FLI covers film
literature (post 1971) more thoroughly and more elegantly.
All that said, in this institution where the emphasis is on advanced
craft skills and where doctoral dissertations are not undertaken, the FII
(& the FLI) is well used. A typical request (does such exist?) may be a
survey of the editing style of Thelma Schoonmaker. The FII will list the
films she has been involved with (most can then be accessed in the
library's video collection) and then list references to the particular
films in the periodical literature, as well as articles specifically
about the editor - all in one stop. The FII has 4 relevant articles, FLI
(searching annual vols. 1981-93) has 5. Only 2 are common.
Looking for reviews of Whisky Galore & discussion of the work of director
Alexander MacKendrick? The FII has the 1949 reviews and contemporary
scholarly articles.
FLI is elegant and time consuming, FII is cruder and quick. Neither is
comprehensive. Both are valuable
 
Neil Pollock
Australian Film Television & Radio School
Voice: 61-2-887-1030
Fax: 61-2-805-6441

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