With a new President now firmly in place, Lenfest Kids explores our ability to bring hope for repair of a particular kind ~ Social Repair. The three films they have chosen all speak in different ways to the possibility of social change and the need to make the world a better place for all
The animated film, Zootopia (2016) explores the values of inclusivity and tolerance within a world of anthropomorphic animals. Our live-action film is the documentary, He Named Me Malala (2015), which tells the story of Pakistani teen activist Malala Yousafzai, who has advocated for the rights of girls to an education.
Above video, Rob King, Lenfest Kids Programmer and Film Professor at the School of the Arts, brings in the new year with his assistant, Sullivan.
Finally, the classic is The Court Jester (1956), a medieval comedy starring Danny Kaye as a replacement jester who helps defeat King Roderick the Tyrant. Kaye was a comedian famous for his skill with tongue twisters, and The Court Jester contains one of his best: “The pellet with the poison’s in the vessel with the pestle. The chalice in the palace has the brew that’s true.” See if you can match Kaye’s speed of delivery!
Rob King, Lenfest Kids Programmer and Professor of Film
Gavin Browning, Director, Public Programs and Engagement
Lauren Weigel, Director, Lenfest Center for the Arts
Each month, we encourage Lenfest Kids participants to get inspired by the films we recommend by making their own film projects. This month, try your hand at a tongue twister like Danny Kaye, the star of The Court Jester.
Listen to Danny Kaye sing ‘Tongue Twisters’ here, and, if you want to sing along, here are the lyrics.
Try it yourself or compose your own tongue twister. Send us a video of your attempts!
Columbia University School of the Arts will continue with the theme, Repair: Spring 2021 Public Programs and Engagements.