Last year marked the 50th anniversary of Film at Lincoln Center. As we reflect on our organization’s legendary past and vibrant present, we know that this historic moment would not have been possible without the support, passion, and commitment of our incredible members and patrons.

This landmark anniversary marks not only a celebration of our history but also a look ahead at the exciting things in store. To commemorate this special occasion, we want to hear directly from all of you. Each month we will celebrate and showcase our unparalleled community of film lovers, including a Member Spotlight column in the member and patron newsletter that will reflect information collected from you in this form. Thank you for the vital role you have played in the organization’s first 50 years. We look forward to the next 50!

Submit your stories here.

For this month’s Member Spotlight, we are pleased to introduce Dave Diaz. Dave is a member at the Contributor level and has been incredibly generous with his time as a volunteer at three New York Film Festivals. He was born, raised, and currently resides in Jackson Heights.

Why is cinema so important to you?
It’s almost single-handedly shaped my worldview.

Do you recall the first movie you ever saw in a movie theater?
The Lion King. I was five years old and I was just amazed by the images and songs. I don’t really remember my reaction to Mufasa’s death but I’m sure I was sad.

Do you recall the first movie or event you saw here at FLC or NYFF?
The documentary Side by Side.

What is your fondest memory at FLC?
Volunteering and working multiple New York Film Festivals. It wasn’t until I volunteered and worked at my first NYFF that I truly fell in love with FLC. The collective experiences of watching the best films NYC has to offer, meeting and having meaningful and inspiring conversations with filmmakers, artists, creators, etc. There is also no place visually and architecturally in the world quite like Lincoln Center. It may be the most romantic place I’ve ever been to. And by that I mean I’ve found new parts of myself there and the muses are loud in that area. It’s a special place indeed.

Why did you become a member or patron of the organization?
I just love watching movies at FLC all year around. There’s no other audience as reverent to film like an FLC audience.

What are your top three (or more!) favorite films? Did you see any of them here at FLC or NYFF?  
1. Raging Bull
2. 2001: A Space Odyssey
3. The Godfather
4. Do the Right Thing
5. Pulp Fiction

Those were the formative films of my youth. My favorite film I’ve seen at FLC/NYFF may be the retrospective screening of Y Tu Mamá También with intro by Alfonso Cuarón. It’s a tie between that and If Beale Street Could Talk.


Interested in becoming a Member of Film at Lincoln Center? Learn more about our Member, Patron, and New Wave programs and join anytime!