7/4/77
Identifier
F.2011-01-0227
Date Of Production
1977
Abstract
Frenetically shot at a Fourth of July gathering, 7/4/77 showcases Elam’s striking ability to use 8mm to capture intimate details and create a unique visual cadence.
Description
This reel arrived in a cracker box labeled "Close to Home - Current - The Extended Family." The box was divided into sections with labeled cards. This reel was in a section labeled "Peggy." The film's leader is labeled "7/4/77". Notes in Elam's paper records indicate this film was screened as part of “Close to Home,” her series of “films which look at the ordinary arts embedded in everyday life” (Chicago Filmmakers, “Cinema City,” Fall 1982).
Presumably filmed on July 4, 1977, the reel depicts a group of friends gathered to barbecue and watch fireworks from a Chicago apartment rooftop. Through several series of rapid shots, the camera captures the sunlit view from the apartment, people eating and drinking, an L train going by, the sunset, plants in the windows, and a sparkler at night. A shot of a pillow labeled "Ruby" may indicate that this apartment is that of film scholar B. Ruby Rich, a friend of JoAnn Elam's. Peggy was the name of another of Elam's friends, and she may also be at the party.
Presumably filmed on July 4, 1977, the reel depicts a group of friends gathered to barbecue and watch fireworks from a Chicago apartment rooftop. Through several series of rapid shots, the camera captures the sunlit view from the apartment, people eating and drinking, an L train going by, the sunset, plants in the windows, and a sparkler at night. A shot of a pillow labeled "Ruby" may indicate that this apartment is that of film scholar B. Ruby Rich, a friend of JoAnn Elam's. Peggy was the name of another of Elam's friends, and she may also be at the party.
Run Time
4 min 49 sec
Format
8mm
Extent
61 feet
Color
Color
Sound
Silent
Reel/Tape Number
1/1
Has Been Digitized?
Yes
Language Of Materials
English
Element
Reversal Positives
Genre
Form
Subject
Related Collections
Related Places
Main Credits
Elam, JoAnn (is filmmaker)
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