As our interview began, Ezra Roscoe, FCRH ’28, set down his mini figurine of Jack Black from the upcoming Minecraft movie — a perfect introduction to the kind of person he is. “I carry him everywhere — just because it’s funny,” he told me with a grin, his enthusiasm immediately setting the tone for our conversation.
Roscoe is double majoring in film and classics, a combination that reflects both his artistic passion and intellectual curiosity. “I love it,” he said, his eyes lighting up. “The program at Lincoln Center is really strong, and I’ve met so many amazing people. There’s something special about being surrounded by others just as passionate about film as I am.”
Film studies is a popular and growing major at universities across the globe, attracting students with a passion for storytelling, cinematography and media production. Film programs have gained more recognition and resources as the entertainment industry continues to expand with streaming services, independent films and blockbuster franchises. Many top universities, including New York University, the University of Southern California and the University of California, Los Angeles, offer renowned film programs that provide hands-on experience, industry networking and deep academic engagement with film history and theory. While competitive, the major opens doors to careers in directing, screenwriting, production, editing and film criticism, making it a dynamic field of study.
Being in New York City, he noted, offers an unparalleled advantage. “There’s just so much happening here. It’s inspiring to be in a place where creativity is everywhere — you don’t get that in a lot of places.”
When asked about the intersection of film and classics, Roscoe became especially animated. He eagerly explained how classic literature forms the foundation of many modern films — stories that have been retold differently for centuries. “People don’t always realize how much of what we watch today comes from ancient stories,” he said. He pointed to Christopher Nolan’s upcoming film, “The Odyssey,” set for release next summer, as a perfect example of how filmmakers continue to draw from the past to create something new. “The Odyssey” is an ideal example of how filmmakers continue to draw from the past to create something new. “It’s crazy to think about — these stories have lasted thousands of years, and now they’re getting multi-million dollar productions,” he said.
When he’s not in class or at a theater, Roscoe enjoys exploring the different neighborhoods of NYC, taking in the inspiring atmosphere of the city. “Writing is a big part of it for me,” he explained. “I think storytelling is at the heart of both classics and film. It’s about understanding human nature.” As our conversation wound down, I asked Roscoe if he had any specific goals for the future. He leaned back for a moment before replying, “I’d love to write and direct my films one day.” He laughed, but there was a certainty in his voice, a confidence that suggested he was already thinking about how to make it happen.
Roscoe is originally from Idaho, and he admitted that moving to NYC was a big adjustment. “It’s very different,” he said with a laugh. “Everything moves slower back home — especially the people. Here, it’s nonstop. There’s so much culture and energy, and there’s always something to do or see.” Despite this contrast, he embraces the change. “Back home, I’d have to go out of my way to find an independent theater showing a classic film or a cool art exhibit. Here? I can just step outside, and I’m surrounded by it,” he said.
It’s clear that Roscoe is right at home in the Big Apple, ready to carve out his place in the world of film with a figurine of Jack Black, a notebook full of ideas and a deep appreciation for the stories that have shaped human history in hand. If his passion is any indication, it won’t be long before he’s creating cinematic classics of his own.
