Several iconic films have earned a place in the Library of Congress National Film Registry, joining the ranks of trusted cultural touchstones such as Iron Man, When Harry Met Sally, and The Little Mermaid. These selections underscore the enduring power of cinema to reflect, shape, and challenge the times in which they were made. (Source: Library of Congress)
The registry expands periodically, and in a recent update, an additional 25 titles were added. Among these new inductees are Carrie from 1976 and the musical Hairspray from 1988, both celebrated for their impact on the screen and on popular culture. The expanded list continues to honor films that resonate across generations and geographies, ensuring future generations can experience these moments in motion. (Source: Library of Congress)
The National Film Preservation Board announced these additions in 2020, reinforcing the Library of Congress registry as a public archive of national treasure status. The goal is to safeguard a broad spectrum of moving images that hold cultural, historical, or aesthetic significance for the United States. (Source: Library of Congress)
The roster of honored works spans a wide range of styles and eras. Notable entries include The Dark Knight, released in 2008 and directed by Christopher Nolan; A Clockwork Orange, a 1971 collaboration from director Stanley Kubrick; The Blues Brothers, a 1980 comedy-musical by John Landis; Shrek, the 2001 animated feature from Andrew Adamson and Vicky Jenson; and Thriller, a pivotal 1913 short by Phillips Smalley. This mix reflects the registry’s aim to preserve both landmark achievements and influential innovations in film craft. (Source: Library of Congress)
Over the decades, the National Film Registry has grown to include hundreds of titles—films that were at least ten years old at the time of listing and that demonstrated cultural, historical, or aesthetic value. This framework ensures a diverse and representative historical record of American cinema, from silent era experiments to modern blockbusters. (Source: Library of Congress)