Five Star Gift Ideas

For the movie enthusiast and critique lover, here are some thoughtful and personal gift ideas for your dad:

1. Subscription to a Film Magazine or Film Club: Consider getting your dad a subscription to a renowned film magazine like Sight & Sound or Cineaste. They offer in-depth articles, reviews, analysis, and interviews with filmmakers. Alternatively, you could sign him up for a film club that sends curated movie selections each month, allowing him to discover new films and expand his cinephile knowledge.

2. Filmmaking Workshop or Course: If your dad has ever expressed an interest in filmmaking, consider gifting him a filmmaking workshop or an online course. It could be a weekend workshop on directing, screenwriting, or cinematography, where he can learn from industry professionals and get hands-on experience. This gift would allow him to explore his passion for film beyond critique.

3. Film Festival Pass: Find out if there are any film festivals happening near your dad's location and surprise him with a pass to attend. Film festivals provide a chance to watch a diverse range of movies, interact with filmmakers, and engage in discussions with like-minded film enthusiasts. It's an opportunity for him to immerse himself in the world of cinema and gain inspiration for his critiques.

4. Film Memorabilia: If your dad has a favorite film or filmmaker, consider getting him a piece of film memorabilia related to that movie or director. It could be a signed movie poster, a limited edition DVD or Blu-ray set, or even a prop from the film. This gift not only showcases your dad's passion for film but also adds a special touch to his movie collection.

5. Book on Film Theory or Filmmakers: There are numerous books available on film theory, critique, and the works of renowned filmmakers. Look for books written by influential film critics or authors that delve into the art of cinema, analyzing specific aspects of filmmaking. Some popular choices include "Hitchcock/Truffaut" by François Truffaut, "Film Art: An Introduction" by David Bordwell and Kristin Thompson, or "The Story of Film" by Mark Cousins.

6. Personalized Film Review Journal: Consider creating a personalized film review journal for your dad. Get a high-quality notebook and add dividers for different genres or time periods. Include some prompts or questions to guide his writing, such as favorite scenes, performances, or behind-the-scenes trivia. This gift would be a great way for him to document his thoughts, critiques, and recommendations while reflecting on his love for film.

Remember, the most important aspect of any gift is the thought and effort put into it. Choosing something that aligns with your dad's passion for film and movie critique will undoubtedly make his birthday extra special.

Or you can get him a star map with the date when he was born.

Bridget Shields says about Under Lucky Stars star maps:

“I wanted a keepsake to give to my father for his birthday as he has terminal cancer. He was delighted by his gift. The process of ordering was easy and delivery was prompt. A great gift idea.”