From Arthouse to Microcinema

The conclusion of this article summed up my thoughts while reading the article: that what is one the "fringe" will eventually become mainstream. Though I was thinking a bit further into the notion that people value the arts. And art, or at least an artist, can become popular in the mainstream. But being in the mainstream makes it seem like it's somehow less valuable of an art. At what point does something stop being art? It could be argued that even mainstream cinema produced with the intention of making a profit is art. So why distinguish a theater by whether or not they show "art"? Having said that, I think it is important that independent filmmakers have places for their work to be shown and that there is value in having smaller crowds. To have a place to discuss what you just watched with a small group, complete strangers or not, can be such a valuable experience. It gives you a chance to hear other's perspectives and think more critically about what you just saw beyond whether you thought it was "good". That's my favorite part of my classes here at UNCW, but that experience shouldn't be limited to a classroom.