"I teach at USC. I have a big class of 360 kids, only about a fifth of whom are film majors. I don't just show the Hollywood blockbusters. I show independent films, foreign films, documentaries"

Leonard Maltin’s statement reveals several layers about both his teaching philosophy and the environment in which he works. With a large class of 360 students, only a small fraction, roughly a fifth, are studying film formally. This diverse audience suggests that Maltin’s classroom is made up of students with widely varying degrees of interest and expertise in cinema, from passionate film majors to those who may be taking the class as an elective or out of casual curiosity. The size and makeup of the group challenge him to communicate about film in a way that is accessible and meaningful to all.

Rather than focusing solely on mainstream commercial cinema, known for its Hollywood blockbusters, Maltin purposefully expands the educational scope by including independent productions, foreign language films, and documentaries. By doing this, he introduces his students to a broader and more varied cinematic landscape. He challenges them to look beyond the familiar, to engage with works that may not fit the conventional expectations of American popular culture, and to appreciate the diversity of storytelling forms. This approach not only educates students on the technical and artistic aspects of filmmaking but also encourages them to develop cultural awareness and critical thinking.

Maltin’s choice of films signals a respect for the medium’s complexity and global reach. He demonstrates the belief that film, as an art form, encompasses far more than just the commercial successes that dominate box offices. Documentaries reveal real-world issues and truths, independent films often showcase unique vision and creativity outside the system, and international entries reflect perspectives that broaden students’ worldviews. By curating this eclectic mix, Maltin aims to cultivate a deeper appreciation of cinema, foster analytical skills, and perhaps even inspire some students to explore new cinematic passions, whether or not they intend to make film their career.