THE NEXT LOS ANGELES / TURNING IDEAS INTO ACTION : Livable L.A. : How can we build a sense of community and improve the quality of life away from job, freeway, police station? : Solutions : Local Documentary Films

FROM: Elizabeth M. Daley, dean of the USC School of Cinema-Television.

Daley proposes a program to make short documentary features about Los Angeles life and neighborhoods and have them regularly shown in movie theaters and on television.

Los Angeles has an unmatched talent pool of film- and video-makers, both professionals and students. It also has unmatched diversity in ethnic groups, geography, neighborhoods and industries. Put those resources together to teach everyone else about the city around them, Daley urges.

The films could be lighthearted guides to Los Angeles attractions, serious explorations of civic issues. The goal is to get people to enjoy, explore and understand the city more.

REALITY CHECK:

It’s a wrap. Film schools, studios and local government officials could persuade theaters and TV stations to show the three-minute films. Television news directors should welcome the chance to show the community features. Young people and community residents can be involved in the process. But production values must be very strong; this should not be a rehash of the amateur hour. Film schools and Hollywood studios could offer technical assistance. Costs could be absorbed by these private institutions.