CU Boulder Launches Documentary to Celebrate 150 Years of History

The University of Colorado Boulder has announced the commencement of production for a documentary film that will celebrate its 150-year history. This significant milestone, marking the university’s founding in 1876, will culminate in a film premiere scheduled for January 2027.

Filmmaker John W. Comerford, who heads Paradigm Studio in the San Francisco Bay Area, will lead the project alongside Jim Packer, the president of Worldwide Television Distribution at Lionsgate in Los Angeles. Both Comerford and Packer are alumni of CU Boulder and are eager to involve additional faculty, students, staff, and other alumni who possess film and creative skills in the production process.

Packer expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating, “The common thread among everyone involved with this film is their direct connection to CU Boulder, which has had a formative influence on the filmmakers and producers.” He added that they aim to leverage the expertise within the CU Boulder community and the broader Boulder film sector to create a film that presents the university’s story in a unique and impactful way.

Jon Leslie, CU Boulder’s Vice Chancellor for Strategic Communications, will serve as an executive producer, collaborating closely with Packer. Leslie noted, “We are excited for this opportunity to celebrate and reflect upon CU Boulder’s 150-year history of serving Coloradans, transforming knowledge, and impacting lives.” He mentioned that the university plans to share behind-the-scenes updates and teasers throughout the year, leading up to the film’s premiere.

Production of the documentary is set to begin this month, with an initial preview scheduled for April 2024 during CU Boulder’s Conference on World Affairs. Interested individuals can follow the film’s progress and access behind-the-scenes content by visiting colorado.edu/150. The university will provide further details regarding the premiere later this year.

This documentary represents a significant opportunity for the University of Colorado Boulder to reflect on its rich history and influence over the past century and a half. As the production unfolds, it aims to engage not only the CU Boulder community but also the wider public in celebrating an institution that has played a vital role in education and community development in Colorado and beyond.