How the National Film Registry Came to Be (with Congressman Robert Mrazek)

In this special bonus episode, we sit down with Congressman Robert Mrazek, the man whose legislation led to the creation of the National Film Preservation Board. Without his efforts, the National Film Registry as we know it wouldn’t exist.

Mrazek shares the inside story of how film preservation became a congressional priority, the cultural battles that shaped the legislation, and why preserving America’s cinematic heritage is a matter of national importance. From the first films selected to the political resistance he faced, this conversation is an essential companion to everything we cover on You’re Missing Out.

If you’ve ever wondered how movies like Do the Right Thing, The Godfather, or Meshes of the Afternoon ended up in the National Film Registry, this is where it all started.

Episode Notes:

• A conversation with Congressman Robert Mrazek, sponsor of the National Film Preservation Act of 1988
• Mrazek’s legislation created the National Film Preservation Board and the National Film Registry

Discussion topics include:

• The political and cultural climate that made film preservation urgent
• The origins and goals of the National Film Registry
• Early champions of the legislation in Congress and the film industry
• The ongoing importance of preserving culturally, historically, and aesthetically significant films

Reflections on:

• The evolving definition of American cinematic heritage
• How preservation efforts safeguard not just movies, but national memory

This episode offers essential historical context for our entire podcast

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Music by Mike Natale