All Of It Podcast Summary: The IFC Center Celebrates 20 Years

Podcast Information:

• Title: All Of It
• Host: Alison Stewart
• Producer: WNYC
• Description: ALL OF IT is a show about culture and its consumers, aiming to engage thinkers, doers, makers, and creators in discussions about the what and why of their work. The show celebrates the diversity and varied perspectives that enrich New York City’s cultural landscape.

Episode Information:

• Episode Title: The IFC Center Celebrates 20 Years
• Release Date: June 17, 2025
• Air Time: Weekdays from 12:00 - 2:00 PM on WNYC

Introduction and Anniversary Context

Alison Stewart opens the episode by acknowledging the 20th anniversary of the IFC Center, located on 6th Avenue in the space formerly occupied by the Waverly Theater. The IFC Center has been a cornerstone for independent and international cinema in New York City, renowned for showcasing films that often don’t receive wide screenings elsewhere. Notably, the center is celebrated for its long-running midnight movie series and the inception of the DOC NYC Film Festival in 2010, now the largest documentary film festival in the United States.

Alison Stewart:
“On this day 20 years ago, the IFC center opened on 6th Avenue in the space that once held the Waverly Theater.” [00:46]

IFC Center's Mission and Evolution

Joining Alison is Harris Dew, the general manager of the IFC Center, who has been with the organization since 2005. Harris delves into the original mission of the IFC Center, emphasizing its dedication to celebrating and bringing exceptional cinema to New Yorkers. He highlights the center's role in introducing audiences to films that might otherwise remain unseen.

Harris Dew:
“I think the original mission was just to celebrate cinema and to bring great cinema to New Yorkers.” [02:13]

Harris shares his personal inspiration for working at the IFC Center, stemming from his college film club days and his passion for connecting people with meaningful cinematic experiences.

Harris Dew:
“I started running a Film club in college and kind of got the bug that way and just like to put on a show for people.” [02:34]

Audience Engagement and Memories

Alison encourages listeners to share their memories of the IFC Center, inviting them to call in with stories of discovering new films or experiencing unforgettable screenings. Throughout the episode, several callers share their heartfelt experiences, illustrating the center's profound impact on its audience.

Caller Paul Adams from East Village:
“I saw Sabbath Queen at the IFC center, and it's about my rabbi, Amitai Laulavi... it's a powerful film.” [07:17]

Caller Antonio from the Bronx:
“I saw Dolores Huerta at the IFC center and even met her. It was a very meaningful experience.” [08:12]

These testimonials underscore the IFC Center's role in fostering a community where cinema serves as a bridge between filmmakers and diverse audiences.

Streaming and Adaptation

A significant portion of the conversation addresses the impact of streaming services on traditional cinema venues. Harris acknowledges the challenges but remains optimistic about the IFC Center’s ability to thrive as a destination for film enthusiasts.

Harris Dew:
“We're a destination. If you want to go out, you're going to want to go out.” [09:22]

He draws parallels between the current streaming revolution and past technological disruptions, emphasizing that the unique experience of watching films in a communal setting remains irreplaceable.

Special Screenings and Events

In celebration of the 20th anniversary, the IFC Center has planned several special screenings and events. Harris highlights the significance of re-screening the inaugural films and hosting directors to provide audiences with deeper insights into their work.

Harris Dew:
“We're showing the four films that we opened the Theater with... and Maniac, which was our first midnight movie.” [14:42]

Notable screenings include:

• Maniac: The first midnight movie, showcasing New York-based horror films and cult classics.
• La Chimera: An Italian film that enjoyed a six-month run.
• Boyhood: Celebrated for its unique 12-year shooting period, which was exhibited for nearly nine months.

These selections not only honor the center’s history but also demonstrate its commitment to diverse and enduring cinematic experiences.

Community Interaction and Testimonials

Throughout the episode, Alison and Harris engage with listeners, sharing and reacting to their memories and experiences. This interactive segment highlights the personal connections and lasting impressions the IFC Center has made on its patrons.

Caller Brian from Brooklyn:
“I saw 'You, Me, and Everyone We Know' 20 years ago and recently watched another beautiful film like 'Young at Heart' thanks to the IFC.” [17:24]

These interactions reinforce the center’s role as a cultural hub where New Yorkers continually find new and meaningful cinematic experiences.

Future Plans and Hopes

Looking ahead, Harris shares his aspirations for the IFC Center's future. He expresses a desire to continue the center’s legacy by maintaining its role as a beacon for independent and groundbreaking films. Upcoming initiatives include the "20 Films for 20 Years" program, which will showcase a different film each year of the center’s existence.

Harris Dew:
“Our hopes for the next 20 years are to keep going and continue making the city a more exciting place to be.” [19:09]

He underscores the importance of community appreciation and support in sustaining the center’s operations and cultural contributions.

Marquee and Nostalgia

A charming segment of the conversation details the iconic marquee of the IFC Center. Harris describes the traditional method of updating the marquee with Lucite plastic letters, a labor-intensive process that adds a nostalgic charm and serves as a vital communication tool with the city.

Harris Dew:
“We have a special anniversary message up there right now to say thanks to all the New Yorkers who've made it possible for us to be around for so long.” [13:45]

Alison adds a personal touch by sharing how the marquee often becomes a source of inspiration and pride for visitors.

Conclusion

As the episode wraps up, Alison and Harris extend their gratitude to the listeners and the community that has supported the IFC Center for two decades. The heartfelt interactions and shared memories affirm the center's significant role in enriching New York City's cultural tapestry.

Alison Stewart:
“Happy anniversary to you, Harris.” [19:33]

Harris Dew:
“Thank you so much.” [19:40]

Notable Quotes:

• Harris Dew:
  “People have actually gotten to be even more adventurous... younger audiences ... aren’t turned off by subtitles.” [03:21]

• Harris Dew:
  “If you want to go out, you're going to want to go out. If you want to stay home and do something, you're going to want to stay home and do something.” [09:22]

• Harris Dew:
  “We all have ears to the ground in different places, so we're all pulling in information from a bunch of different places.” [06:30]

• Harris Dew:
  “We're lucky to make more to folks.” [02:13]

Conclusion: This episode of All Of It provides an intimate look into the IFC Center’s two-decade journey, celebrating its achievements and exploring its enduring impact on New York City’s vibrant film culture. Through engaging discussions with Harris Dew and heartfelt listener contributions, the podcast encapsulates the essence of what makes the IFC Center a beloved institution for cinephiles and the broader community alike.