The sparkling history of the Museum of the Moving Image was reflecting in the eyes of the excited tour guide, as he explained the past of the museum. It was used as Paramount Picture's studio before film production moved to Hollywood. The area was used for various films and television shows in the early production industry.
With a breath of the past, this museum has beautifully portrayed the different elements that have played a part in film production today. The gradual and ground breaking development that every piece conveyed, made me appreciate the height that film production has reached. Installations such as the zoetrope and the stroboscope increased my appreciation for the history behind moving images. Such intricate developments resulted in dynamic productions that include sound and video laced into each other beautifully.
The museum is set up in a detailed, chronological setup. The dim lighting and the basic colors of each room made it a more comfortable experience. The interactive installations like the audio recorder was something that I appreciated. Being allowed to experience such aspects of film production hands on is one way to make a museum more engaging.
My absolute favorite installation is the Feral Fountain, a stroboscope hidden behind a plain white wall. Besides its scintillating affect, its artistry was mind blowing. Such an seamless combination of lights, images, and movement is so different when see in the form of a stroboscope. This was the first time I ever saw a stroboscope and it certainly won't be the last.
Visiting the MOMI again is a must for me, and most importantly, I will visit when it's less crowded just to go stare at the Feral Fountain by myself.
