This is an issue of The Wonder Reader, a magazine in which our editors recommend a set of stories to pique your curiosity and delight you. Register here get it every saturday morning.
Earlier this year, my colleague Rose Horowitch reported on a new irony in higher education: Students who have chosen to take film classes cannot attend a film. One professor told him that “his students remind him of nicotine addicts who withdraw during testing: The longer they stay without checking their phones, the more they struggle. Eventually, they give in.”
At the same time, when young people struggle to sit for even an hour of film, modern photographers get a long timemost of them running for three hours. Some of these films manage to hold the audience’s attention with exciting scenes that demand to be shown on the big screen. But how long is too long? Today’s newsletter explores what’s stopping most of us from engaging in longer tasks—and some alternatives for when you can’t bear to sit still for three hours.
On Film and Attention
Film Students Who Can’t Go Through Film Anymore
By Rose Horowitch
The crisis of attention goes to the cinema.
Six Acclaimed Movies With Short Running Times
By Stephanie Bai
Replay the 90-minute film. (From 2024)
Attention-Span Class Division
By Xochitl Gonzalez
Who can afford to sit still at the movies?
Still Curious?
Other detours
PS
I recently asked readers to share a photo of something that makes them wonder in the world. Charlotte M., 80, sent this photo of Hanalei Bay, Kauai.
I will continue to focus on your responses in the coming weeks.
— Isabel
