By: Riddhi Kannabiran
The Film Appreciation Club was started by one of our school’s most amiable teachers, Mr. Raskopf. The club focuses on watching movies together and serves as a place for students to wind down and relax. Many of the clubs that we participate in have an academic motivation behind them, so sometimes we forget to join clubs that we have a genuine interest in. Film Appreciation is not just a club for watching movies, but a club that encourages students to socialize. As Mr. Raskopf himself says, “ I want to remind people what it’s like to watch something together, to laugh together and jump at the same scare together.”
One of the main reasons this club was created is to bring back the movie-watching experience as a community activity instead of an individualistic one. Meetings are held on Thursdays in Mr Raskopf’s room, currently the club is deciding on officers, so if you are interested, please speak to Mr Raskopf for more information. While clubs are one of the main ways we demonstrate our academic abilities as students, it’s important to remember that not every extracurricular has to be reduced to a resume builder. Some extracurricular activities can be a way to wind down and have fun with your peers.
Film Appreciation Club is also a great way for freshman and sophomores to meet each other and talk about their shared interests. As Mr Raskopf mentioned earlier, film is a gateway for people to interact with each other. It’s a great way to “break the ice” and get to know your classmates and your teachers as. Especially for freshmen, the next four years at East will be spent with many of the same students and teachers so it’s good to start making connections with them. If you don’t know how to begin, this club is the perfect opportunity. Members watch movies that relate to holidays or seasons, often keeping them connected to a current event going on in the school or holidays. This is why the club will be watching the Legend of Sleepy Hollow, which is also this year’s school play. If you’re interested in attending the club and getting free popcorn, stop by at its next screening.
Ultimately, Film Appreciation Club represents something that can sometimes be overlooked in a busy school environment: the importance of enjoying things together. While academic achievement and extracurricular accomplishments are important, building friendships and creating lasting memories are also meaningful parts of the high school experience. Whether you are a freshman hoping to meet new people, a sophomore looking for a relaxing Thursday afternoon, or simply someone who enjoys a good movie, the club offers a welcoming place to spend time with others. With free popcorn adding to the experience, there is even more reason to attend. If you are interested in joining, visit Mr. Raskopf’s room during the club’s next Thursday screening and discover how a shared love of film can bring the school community closer together.