The final film showing of this year’s Screen on the Green, “Wayne’s World,” was a hit. The quantity and frequency of laughter that echoed across the lawn was evidence of the 1992 movie’s still-relevant humor. The comedy began before the film. As students and Moscow residents found their seats on the lawn, a member of the Department of Student Involvement set up the projector. There were some initial technical difficulties. The speakers crackled and the audio was fragmented, but the crowd remained upbeat. Jokes were shared while the issues were resolved. Before long, the sky darkened, and the movie began. The absurd humor and references were clearly not lost on the crowd. Viewers particularly enjoyed the jokes about overt product placement. The self-awareness and fourth wall breaks of the film led to constant giggles and commentary. When the film ended, all previous technical difficulties were forgotten. A friendly student thanked the camera operator, which prompted several others to do the same.
“Wayne’s World” is a film of many things but most importantly, it’s a film about friendship. Through wacky ups and downs, Garth and Wayne were there for each other. That message felt particularly appropriate for the beginning of the semester. College is daunting whether it’s your first semester or your last. Having friends close by can help you through any hardship.
There is something magical about watching a movie on the big screen under the stars and hearing the laughter of fellow Vandals. Events like Screen on the Green bring people together. “Wayne’s World” was one of 11 fantastic movies shown on the Tower lawn this summer. These shows are free, pet-friendly and fun. That accessibility can be hard to find. Having fun often costs money, a resource college students must be mindful of. Several students mentioned they had never seen the movie before. It’s wonderful that they were granted that opportunity.
While “Wayne’s World” was the last Screen on the Green film of 2024, you can look forward to next summer. Screen on the Green is an annual tradition that runs on Thursday evenings from early June to late August.
Megan Kingsley can be reached at [email protected]