Five Star Gift Ideas

For your son who enjoys watching and analyzing foreign films, there are several meaningful and personal gift ideas that will surely make his Christmas extra special. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Criterion Collection: Consider purchasing a selection of foreign films from the Criterion Collection. This collection is known for its high-quality, restored versions of classic and contemporary foreign films. It offers a wide range of titles from different countries and eras, which will give your son an opportunity to explore and analyze films from various regions.

2. Film Festival Pass: If your son is passionate about foreign films, he might appreciate attending a film festival focused on international cinema. Look for film festivals in your area or consider purchasing a pass to a renowned festival like the Cannes Film Festival or the Toronto International Film Festival. This experience will allow him to watch a variety of foreign films, attend Q&A sessions with directors, and gain a deeper understanding of the industry.

3. Foreign Film Subscription Box: Subscription boxes have become popular in recent years, and there are several options catered specifically to film enthusiasts. Look for a subscription box that focuses on international cinema. These boxes often include curated selections of foreign films, along with additional items like study guides and exclusive interviews. Your son will receive a new package every month, providing a continuous source of foreign film content to analyze and enjoy.

4. Books on Foreign Films: Consider gifting your son a collection of books that delve into the world of foreign cinema. Choose titles that cover various regions, directors, or themes that align with his interests. Some recommended books include "The World History of Film" by Robert Sklar, "1001 Movies You Must See Before You Die" edited by Steven Jay Schneider, or "The Cinema Book" edited by Pam Cook. These books will expand his knowledge, expose him to new films, and provide valuable insights for his analysis.

5. Foreign Language Lessons: Watching and analyzing foreign films could be even more rewarding for your son if he can understand the dialogue without subtitles. Consider enrolling him in foreign language lessons, either through a language school or online platforms that offer immersion courses. Learning a new language will not only enhance his film-watching experience but also open doors for new cultural discoveries and may even inspire future travel.

Remember, the key to a meaningful and personal gift is to tailor it to your son's specific interests and passions. Whichever option you choose, show your son that you support his love for foreign cinema and encourage his intellectual growth in this area.

Or you can get him a star map with an important date you share.

Madeline Moran Weiler says about Under Lucky Stars star maps:

“The map was absolutely beautiful! My grandson was thrilled with it (it was a Christmas gift) and has already asked me if I would consider getting another one for him as a graduation gift in a couple of years.”