On April 16, 2008, the Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival [FLIFF] and the Broward County Main Library commemorated the life and works of a true visionary of literary and scientific thought, Arthur C. Clarke, at the Cinema Paradiso. Arthur C. Clarke recently passed away at the age of 90 on March 19 of this year in Sri Lanka. The event began with a literary discussion honoring Clarke’s 2001: A Space Odyssey science fiction book series (hosted by Hal Axler, FLIFF Executive Director), and culminated with a screening of 2010: The Year We Made Contact.

With over 100 novels, more than a 1,000 short stories, essays and articles, Arthur C. Clarke’s work initially brought merit to the science fiction genre, and endorsed awareness of the magnitude of space exploration and education. This is a man who has ensnared our senses with the possibility of extra-terrestrial life, and who has made it possible for super-human computers to articulate emotions. We have not been able to look at science fiction as merely “fiction” ever since his works have surpassed the imagination into a currently attainable factual thought.

The enormity of Clarke’s innovations have contributed to technological advancements on a global scale that has continued to influence future generations. Had it not been for one of Clarke’s short stories, Dial F for Frankenstein in 1964, would the British computer scientist, Tim Berners-Lee, been inspired to create the World Wide Web in 1989? If there wasn’t a predecessor, his short story The Sentinel in 1948, would renowned director Stantley Kubrick have ever collaborated with Clarke for the production of the legendary classic, 2001: A Space Odyssey in 1968?

The World Wide Web, remote-controlled television, the development of spacecrafts, space stations and launch systems, geostationary communication satellites, and email and instant messaging are some of the historic creations that have been made possible because of Clarke’s studies and concepts in telecommunication. Thanks to these satellites, we are able to connect to just about anyone around the world with Internet capabilities to chat with, share music, or even play video games. More importantly, our education, health and wellness depend on receiving information worldwide.

Clarke was a great advocate of world peace and believed that through the use of communication satellites, the many nations of the world could share technology and unite for the future of mankind. He has encouraged numerous individuals, especially the younger generations, to pursue an education in space sciences and arts.

FLIFF members and other enthusiasts who venerate Arthur C. Clarke’s work spent the night praising him and watching a film on his second 2001 series book. The Cinema Paradiso has been christened as “a hidden gem of Downtown Ft. Lauderdale” by Janet Schwartz, a FLIFF member. This is an accurate description of this church-turned-movie-theater whose surround sound and cushy seats create the perfect and most relaxing atmosphere for any moviegoer. FLIFF and the Broward Count Main Library have presented us with an intellectual giant who will surely be missed. Arthur C. Clarke will remain a momentous figure whose legacy will persist to galvanize all ages.

For more information about Arthur C. Clarke, visit the Clarke Foundation’s Official Site. To find out about other great events presented by FLIFF, visit their Official Site.

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