Washington, DC . . . In December, the National Archives and Records Administration presents film screenings of archival films from World War II and a documentary on George Washington.
The screenings will be held in the theater of the National Archives Building, Pennsylvania Avenue between 7th and 9th Streets, NW, and in the auditorium the National Archives at College Park, which is located at 8601 Adelphi Road, College Park, MD. All programs are free and open to the public. Free parking is available at the National Archives at College Park. The times and dates may be verified by calling the National Archives public events line at (201)501-5000. The hearing impaired should call TDD (202) 501-5404 for information.
PLEASE NOTE: The theater at the downtown National Archives Building is equipped with a system that allows the hearing-impaired to use a set of headphones, or neck loop and a small receiver, to enhance the volume of the public address system. Visitors may request these devices in the projection booth.
Washington, DC Events
Friday , December 3-Archival Film: World War II
The Home Front
During the Second World War, the U.S. Government produced numerous short incentive films aimed at Americans on the homefront. Often made with the cooperation of the Hollywood studios, the films were designed to persuade Americans to take a more active role in the war effort and proved to be effective motivational tools. The National Archives presents examples of these films from its motion picture holdings. You, John Jones, released in 1942, features James Cagney as an air-raid warden who imagines his daughter (Margaret O'Brien) suffering the fate of children in war-torn, occupied countries. (11 minutes.) The New Spirit, released in 1942, is a Disney cartoon in which Donald Duck talks about the importance of paying income taxes. (8 minutes.) It's Everybody's War, released in 1942, is narrated by Henry Fonda and looks at the effect the war has on a small town. (15 minutes.) Who Died? released in 1944, is a War Bond promotional film that examines the human cost of the war. (5 minutes.) Skirmish on the Home Front, released in 1943, in which Alan Ladd and Betty Hutton appear in this plea for responsible civilian spending. (13 minutes.)
(52 minutes total.) Noon. Theater.
Friday, December 10-Archival Film: World War II
The Home Front
NARA presents five examples of World War II incentive films from its motion picture holdings. The Line is Busy, released in 1944, dramatizes a war worker's devotion to his job. (2 minutes.) Inflation, released in 1943, in which Edward Arnold appears as Satan in this cautionary tale of unnecessary spending. (17 minutes.) Soldiers Without Guns, released in 1944, celebrates the behind-the-scenes, routine tasks required to win the war. (18 minutes.) It Can't Last, released in 1944, is a War Bond promotional film produced by the U.S. Navy. (17 minutes.) No Exceptions, released in 1943, dramatizes the consequences of selfishness and lack of sacrifice. (9 minutes.) (63 minutes). Noon. Theater.
Wednesday, December 15-George Washington George Washington: The Man Who Wouldn't Be King, released in 1992, explores the events that shaped the character of George Washington up to his election as President. This comprehensive documentary presents interviews with historians, battle reenactments, and visits to historical sites. Produced by David Sutherland. (58 minutes.) Noon. Theater.
College Park, MD Films (For descriptions of College Park films, see prior listings)
Monday, December 6 Archival Film: World War II-The Home Front (Part 1) (52 minutes.) Noon. Auditorium.
Monday, December 13 Archival Film: World War II-The Home Front (Part 2) (63 minutes.) Noon. Auditorium.
For additional PRESS information, please contact the National Archives Public Affairs staff at (301) 837-1700 or by e-mail.
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