Library of Congress Includes Timeless 'Philadelphia' in National Film Registry, Acknowledging Cultural Significance.
In a move that solidifies its commitment to preserving American cinema, the Library of Congress has selected 1993 drama "Philadelphia" for induction into the National Film Registry. This milestone recognition is awarded to films deemed culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant, and "Philadelphia" certainly meets these criteria.
Inspired by real-life cases of wrongful termination due to sexual orientation, the film tells the story of Andrew Beckett (Tom Hanks), a gay attorney fired from his job for being HIV-positive. Despite facing initial reluctance from his peers, Beckett finds an unlikely ally in Brian Tyson (Denzel Washington), who takes on his case and helps him fight for justice.
"Philadelphia" marked a significant moment in the AIDS crisis conversation, bringing attention to a topic that was still largely stigmatized at the time of its release. The film's success was further boosted by Bruce Springsteen's iconic song "Streets of Philadelphia," which won both an Oscar and a Grammy Award. Hanks' portrayal also earned him his second Academy Award.
The National Film Registry, established in 1989, is tasked with preserving films that have had a lasting impact on American culture. With the addition of "Philadelphia" to its ranks, the registry now boasts over 925 titles, including other notable additions such as "High Society," "Inception," and "Clueless."
The library's latest selections are set to air in a television special later this year, offering audiences another opportunity to experience these cinematic treasures. For now, the inclusion of "Philadelphia" serves as a testament to its enduring cultural significance, solidifying its place among America's most iconic films.
Public nominations for future film selections will be accepted through August 15, inviting citizens to suggest titles that they believe should be recognized for their historical and artistic value. As the National Film Registry continues to grow, it remains an essential resource for preserving the rich tapestry of American cinema.
In a move that solidifies its commitment to preserving American cinema, the Library of Congress has selected 1993 drama "Philadelphia" for induction into the National Film Registry. This milestone recognition is awarded to films deemed culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant, and "Philadelphia" certainly meets these criteria.
Inspired by real-life cases of wrongful termination due to sexual orientation, the film tells the story of Andrew Beckett (Tom Hanks), a gay attorney fired from his job for being HIV-positive. Despite facing initial reluctance from his peers, Beckett finds an unlikely ally in Brian Tyson (Denzel Washington), who takes on his case and helps him fight for justice.
"Philadelphia" marked a significant moment in the AIDS crisis conversation, bringing attention to a topic that was still largely stigmatized at the time of its release. The film's success was further boosted by Bruce Springsteen's iconic song "Streets of Philadelphia," which won both an Oscar and a Grammy Award. Hanks' portrayal also earned him his second Academy Award.
The National Film Registry, established in 1989, is tasked with preserving films that have had a lasting impact on American culture. With the addition of "Philadelphia" to its ranks, the registry now boasts over 925 titles, including other notable additions such as "High Society," "Inception," and "Clueless."
The library's latest selections are set to air in a television special later this year, offering audiences another opportunity to experience these cinematic treasures. For now, the inclusion of "Philadelphia" serves as a testament to its enduring cultural significance, solidifying its place among America's most iconic films.
Public nominations for future film selections will be accepted through August 15, inviting citizens to suggest titles that they believe should be recognized for their historical and artistic value. As the National Film Registry continues to grow, it remains an essential resource for preserving the rich tapestry of American cinema.
. They're just a mess! And this news about "Philadelphia" being included in the National Film Registry is actually kinda cool... but only if you don't think too much about how they're not doing it on these platforms. I mean, can you imagine submitting your own film suggestions for consideration? Forget about it 
. It's just another layer of bureaucratic red tape to wade through.
You'd think they'd be able to streamline things a bit, but nope. They're still stuck in the slow lane 
.
. But seriously, can we just have a platform that's easy to use and doesn't give me headaches? Is too much to ask? 
also can we talk about how brave denzel washington was to take on a role like that in the early 90s? he paved the way for more diversity on screen 
. i mean, dont get me wrong, its a great movie and all, but wasnt it already iconic back in 93? didnt tom hanks win that academy award for bein the best lawyer ever or somethin lol 
. seriously tho, the film does tackle some heavy stuff like AIDS and discrimination, so i guess thats why its finally gettin' the recognition it deserves 
.
and i gotta say, it's a total game changer. denzel washington is EVERYTHING 
, his performance with tom hanks is so emotional it'll leave you in tears 
. it's crazy to think that this film was released over 25 years ago but its message is still so relevant today 
. the way it tackles the stigma around hiv and being gay back then is just heartbreaking 
, i can see why it won all those awards! 
anyway, glad to see "philadelphia" getting some recognition from the library of congress 
.
also can't overstate the significance of Bruce Springsteen's "Streets of Philadelphia" - that song is a timeless classic 
but what I find really cool is how the registry keeps growing & now has over 925 titles... feels like they're doing a great job of preserving our cinematic history 
anyway back to Philly - tom hanks gave one of his best performances imo & denzel washington is just perfection as always 
the music from that movie still gets me all emotional every time 
it's crazy to think about how far we've come since then, but at the same time, it's scary to think about how many people still face discrimination because of their identity 
and Tom Hanks' performance was so raw and emotional 
. And Denzel Washington as Brian Tyson? Iconic casting right there 
just thought about how far we've come since "Philadelphia" came out back in '93... I mean, that film was a total game changer, especially with Denzel and Tom Hanks killing it on screen 
. It's crazy to think about how much stigmas around HIV/AIDS have diminished over the years 
every time I listen to it. Anyway, it's awesome that the Library of Congress recognized its cultural significance 
that "Philadelphia" is finally getting the recognition it deserves! It's such a powerful film that still holds up today, and Tom Hanks' performance is just incredible 
I mean, who can forget that iconic Oscar-winning speech he gave at the end of the movie? Emotional 
The fact that the library is preserving these films for future generations is just amazing, and I love that they're opening up nominations to the public too 
It's amazing to think about how many people have been inspired by this film over the years to be more understanding and inclusive. Definitely a must-see for anyone who loves classic movies or is interested in history 
. And now, we get to vote for our own faves! 
Can't wait to see what other films make the cut next year 
what's next though? can we PLEASE get some more movies from the 90s in there?? like "clueless" is iconic but come on, its not as groundbreaking as "philadelphia" 
now we got more than 1 major player on screen 
And don't even get me started on why it's only now being added to the registry after all these years, isn't this just a PR stunt for Tom Hanks' Oscar legacy? 
I mean, I love Denzel Washington as much as the next person but let's be real, this film is iconic because of its impact on LGBTQ+ rights and the AIDS crisis conversation. That's what makes it "timeless". 
Can we get sources for these selections, or are they just based on popularity polls? 
but in a good way you know? it's crazy how much of an impact that movie had on ppl who are living with hiv/aids even though it came out like, what feels like a million years ago 
. And can we talk about how it brought attention to the AIDS crisis back in the day? It's crazy to think about how far we've come since then