The Cinematheque at the Alan and Elaine Armer Theater
The Department of Cinema and Television Arts Cinematheque is an innovative year-round film screening program housed in the Alan and Elaine Armer Theater, a state–of-the-art 130 seat motion picture theater on the CSUN campus. The only venue of its kind in the San Fernando Valley, the Cinematheque presents thematically designed retrospectives of classic films, as well as aesthetically significant contemporary releases––in conjunction with the appearance of featured guest artists for lectures and panel discussions. Conceptual presentations are devoted to: filmographies of important directors, writers, actors, cinematographers; essential genre works; seminal documentaries; major literary, philosophical, narrative themes and traditions; defining technical and artistic models and styles. The Cinematheque is also intended as a regular venue for film organizations, student film competitions, and conferences. Collaboration is encouraged with local studios, guilds, and academies for screenings and related events.

The Alan and Elaine Armer Theater is equipped to project film in 35mm and 16mm formats and includes a THX digital sound system. In addition, the theater has a Panasonic theatrical HD video projector for screening DVCPRO, DVCAM, DVD, and VHS formats.

The Department of Cinema and Television Arts
One of the most respected programs in the United States, the Department of Cinema and Television Arts at California State University, Northridge is recognized as a leader in media arts education. With a strikingly modern university curriculum, the department is housed in a newly constructed 65,000 square foot building with first-rate film and television production capabilities. The Department of Cinema and Television Arts is committed to extending opportunities for media education beyond the campus community. In addition to serving 1200 declared majors and 60 graduate students, the department provides quality programs to the Los Angeles community. The centerpiece of these programs is the CSUN Cinematheque.

Realizing Our Goals
In the education of our students––and in our dedication to provide the community with extraordinary and provocative programs––the Department of Cinema and Television Arts is committed to excellence in every facet of its endeavors. As the university’s role as a leader in Valley culture has risen, so too have its costs. We are now a state-assisted (rather than a state-supported) institution. Public funding is no longer sufficient to completely sustain all of the Cinematheque’s projects and programming. The ability of the Department of Cinema and Television Arts to fulfill our commitment to bring works of cinematic distinction to the community depends to a great extent upon the generosity of our friends. The department must rely increasingly on the charitable support of alumni, parents, community friends, and industry partners. Private philanthropic assistance will allow the department to advance beyond educational minimums. Individual and corporate contributions make all the difference. Endowments to the cinematheque are used to maintain the creative program and to expand the technical capabilities of the theater. Enlightened investing ensures that the department will continue to offer outstanding cultural arts programming to our students and the community.