The Encounter Cinema records span the years 1970-1985 (bulk 1979-1985) and encompass 2.8 linear feet. The collection contains organization files, maintained by administrator Douglas Edwards, on independent and experimental films screened at the theater, including correspondence, programs, press releases, clippings and reviews, and grant applications. There is information on American independent filmmakers, including resumes, filmographies, film synopses and reviews, pictorial material, and photographs.

Encounter Cinema was an American exhibition venue in operation from 1979 to 1985. It was an outgrowth of programming from 1973 to 1978 by Theatre Vanguard. Encounter Cinema showcased independent, avant-garde and/or noncommercial endeavors in film. It was co-sponsored by the Los Angeles Craft and Folk Art Museum and the UCLA Film Archives. The series exhibition site was in Melnitz Theater at UCLA.

2.8 linear feet of papers.

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