Volume 56, Number 12    November 3, 2008         

Professor Emeritus of Cinema John Fell
Professor Emeritus of Cinema John Fell passed away at the age of 81 on Oct. 9. Fell's Cinema Department colleagues recall that students did not want to miss Fell's lectures. They remember the lectures as informative, humorous and mind stretching, and Fell himself for his deep discussions and affinity for traditional jazz.

Fell joined the SF State faculty in 1961 and developed a film program that evolved into the Cinema Department and earned him a plaque and dedication in 1986. Fell wrote five books, including "Film and the Narrative Tradition" and "Before Hollywood: Turn-of-the-Century American Film," as well as a history of stride piano players called "Stride!"

"John felt and acted from a great sense of responsibility for people, ideas and fairness," Cinema Lecturer Yasha Aginsky said. "When it came his turn to lead, he led the department with an even hand and sense of measure. For those of us involved in the student power movement of the 1960s, John was always supportive and interested in what we proposed. His contributions to our cinema community are immeasurable."

The Cinema Department will celebrate John Fell with an evening film showing and reception in his honor, Nov. 3, at 7 p.m., in the Coppola Theater, FA 101. All are invited.

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Last modified Nov. 3, 2008, by University Communications