There are three things every world traveler must have: a compass, a trustworthy guide, and a craving for adventure. The University’s Travel Lecture Series offers would-be travelers two out of three as they kick off their 2004-2005 film season, aptly named Compass. Viewers need only bring a thirst for excitement.
Each month, the series will present a film by an internationally renowned travel filmmaker, highlighting locales all over the world. Attendees can experience eight nights of global travel from St. Louis’ oldest and best-known travel lecture series.
The travelogues will be available at 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on the first Friday of each month in Graham Chapel, on the Washington University campus.
October 1 – The Soul of India
Filmmaker Rick Ray makes a trek through the large southern subcontinent into a personal adventure. Viewers gain an intimate understanding of India as Ray’s cinematography takes them to such stunning sights as the Taj Mahal, the Himalayas and the River Ganges, among others.
November 5 – Lewis and Clark – Confluence of Time and Courage
Gary Warriner’s film is the official Lewis and Clark Bicentennial documentary, commissioned by the federal government. Warriner brings the historic journey up the Mississippi to life as he retraces the explorers’ steps, from Missouri, through buffalo herds and teepee villages, across the Rockies to the great Pacific Ocean.
December 3 – The Erie Canal
What would America be like if the Erie Canal had never been built? This film explores the answers as it traces the canal’s history, from its humble beginnings to modern-day New York. Viewers revisit milestones of the 1800s from the women’s suffrage movement to the first Woolworth’s to Rochester, America’s first boom town – each shaped by the Erie Canal.
January 7 – Europe’s Alps
Filmmaker Jim Tompkins hiked through the Alps for two months to capture footage of Europe’s most stunning panoramic vistas. He takes his audience through France, Switzerland and Italy, exposing the Alps’ beauty and its secrets. Tompkins’ journey becomes a unique experience on film, narrated live and accompanied by an original score.
February 4 – Korea: Can Two Become One?
In this film, history professor Willis Moore chronicles the tumultuous history of the Koreas. Viewers learn about the cultural traditions and modern-day frictions of these countries, visiting Seoul and Buson before taking a rare peek into North Korea.
March 4 – Cruising the Rivers of Europe
Viewers can sail down three of Europe’s main rivers – the Rhine, Main and Danube – with filmmaker Clint Denn, who takes his audience through time and place, visiting historic landmarks in various countries, from a 13th century cathedral to an ancient Roman bridge.
April 1 – Western Canada, Far and Wild
As Canada’s most celebrated documentary filmmaker, John Wilson is the perfect guide to the wilderness of Western Canada. Climb up to the peaks of the Rockies for a great view, before heading down the Nahanni River, following the caribou migration. Wilson also heads into the cities of Western Canada, exploring the region’s diverse attractions.
May 6 – America’s Amazing Places
For the past two years, filmmaker Bob DeLoss has traveled throughout America, finding material for his films about America. This film chronicles the most memorable parts of that journey, from meeting characters such as Elvis’ tailor to hiking through national parks such as Bryce Canyon in Utah. With live narration, DeLoss offers the beauties and eccentricities of America to his audience.
The series is sponsored by the Office of Alumni and Development Programs.
A single ticket for the entire series is $29; or $48 for two tickets. Individual film tickets are available for $5 at the door. For more information, call Liz McDaniel at 935-5212.