Written by Lorin Brice Hall
One of RC’s best-kept secrets is Kanopy. Kanopy is a film streaming site that allows its users to access hundreds of critically-acclaimed films that offer a non-western and non-American perspective.
The service is free to all Roanoke College student and faculty members! The films range from modern to ancient, and I have watched several classic Kurosawa films on the sight as well as Academy winner Moonlight and Academy nominee Ladybird. The wide range of these films provide Maroons with tremendous opportunity for growth. The Kanopy staff explains their goal with this mission statement: “The films that truly resonate with us do more than just entertain. They inspire us, enrich us, and challenge our perspectives. Kanopy ensures that these films reach viewers around the world.We stream thoughtful entertainment to your preferred device with no fees and no commercials by partnering with public libraries and universities. Everyone from film scholars to casual viewers will discover remarkable and enriching films on Kanopy. Log in with your library membership and enjoy our diverse catalog with new titles added every month.At Kanopy we believe in the power of film to bridge cultural boundaries and bring people together. Start watching today and expand your worldview with us.”
The school hardly promotes this service, but it should! The highly successful international film festival that the school had hosted earlier this year showcased several films that were already available on Kanopy! Kanopy itself is an international film festival! That you can use for free! Expand your world! Expand your boundaries! It’s the summer, so watch good movies!
