The History Of Cinema
From the 1870's to the present day, here is the history of film.
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- DirectorP.J.C. JanssenSeries of photographs of the transit of the planet Venus across the Sun in 1874.First example of moving pictures, displaying a quick slideshow of the planet Venus moving onto the sun.
- DirectorEadweard MuybridgeStarsGilbert DommSallie GardnerThe clip shows a jockey, Gilbert Domm, riding a horse, Sallie Gardner. The clip is not filmed; instead, it consists of 24 individual photographs shot in rapid succession, making a moving picture when using a zoopraxiscope.The most known about film of the 1870's. Remarkable for it's time, some people think of it as the first true example of moving pictures, as some consider the one above to not have enough happen to say.
- DirectorEadweard MuybridgeIndividual photographs of the running of a buffalo shot in rapid succession.The first true film ever made, which is sometimes mistaken for the iconic Roundhay Garden Scene. Here, we see the beauty of the buffalo, running wild. Although a remarkable film, it is a very rare find.
- DirectorLouis Aimé Augustin Le PrinceA frame sequence featuring a man walking around a corner.The second true film ever made. The film displays a man simply walking around a corner. The prints around the world of this, however, are of bad quality, so it can be difficult to see the man walking around the corner when you watch it.
- DirectorLouis Aimé Augustin Le PrinceStarsAnnie HartleyAdolphe Le PrinceJoseph WhitleyIn the garden, a man asks his friends to do something silly for him to record on film.Although it isn't, it is known to some as the first film ever made. Directed by the same person who made Man Walking Around the Corner, this remarkable experiment of film displays a bunch of people, walking around in circles. It is two seconds long, and consists of twenty four frames.
- DirectorLouis Aimé Augustin Le PrinceA shot of people walking on The Leeds Bridge.Again, directed by the great Louis Aimé Augustin Le Prince, is another remarkable experiment in film. This time, we simply see a street, and the people walking. It was considered outstanding for it's time, and remains today in film history.
- DirectorLouis Aimé Augustin Le PrinceStarsAdolphe Le PrinceA very brief film of a man playing the accordion.Louis Aimé Augustin Le Prince rolls up his sleeves, and makes another great experiment in film. We see Adolphe Le Prince play the accordion, with sadly no sound. Because of this, later on someone experimented with sound, so music could be heard in film.
- DirectorWilliam Carr CroftsWordsworth DonisthorpeA shot of Trafalgar Square.This time, a new filmmaker comes along, ready to test the power of film. He shows a rough, bumpy display of the Trafalgar Square, just as it was in 1890.
- DirectorÉtienne-Jules MareyShot of the flight of a fly.Yet another experiment in filmmaking, we see the wonderful flight of a disgusting creature, shown in close up. It also has the first fly to ever be recorded on film.
- DirectorWilliam K.L. DicksonWilliam HeiseStarsGiuseppe Sacco AlbaneseOne of W.K.L. Dickson's laboratory workers horses around for the camera.Another experiment in filmmaking to test the Kinetoscope once again, we see blurry figures approach, and walk away. A film to test the boundaries of film, without a plot or theme to accompany it. This is also the first film made in the USA.
- DirectorWilliam K.L. DicksonWilliam HeiseStarsGiuseppe Sacco AlbaneseIn an experiment that follows up on the results of 'Monkeyshines, No. 1', an Edison company worker again moves around in front of the motion picture camera.Yet again, film experiments with the magic of the Kinetoscope, without following any plot or theme.
- DirectorWilliam K.L. DicksonWilliam HeiseStarsGiuseppe Sacco AlbaneseAn Edison company worker makes large gestures in front of a Kinetoscope to test the new camera system.A film that tests the Kinetoscope again. Rather a creepy viewing, I must say, but considered remarkable for it's time. This is no lost film, as some claim it to be.
- DirectorWilliam K.L. DicksonStarsWilliam K.L. DicksonThe very first American film shown to public audiences and the press. It depicts William K.L. Dickson taking off his hat and greeting the audience.The first USA film to of ever been released to the public. The film runs so smoothly, because the director experimented with the Kinetoscope before in his Monkeyshines. Truly a remarkable piece of work, and we wouldn't have film like we do nowadays if it weren't for this. So, let William K.L Dickson greet us into the world of film.
- DirectorWilliam K.L. DicksonWilliam HeiseStarsJames C. DuncanShort, experimental film depicting James C. Duncan smoking a pipe.One of the first films made in the USA to be released to the public, the director of Dickson Greeting yet again experiments with film, showing a figure smoking what looks to be a cigarette. Sadly, this film is now very rare to find.
- DirectorWilliam K.L. DicksonWilliam HeiseTwo men wearing boxing gloves prepare to spar in the Edison Company studio.The USA pushes out another experiment of film, made by the great director who made the experiments Dickson Greeting and Duncan Smoking, William K.L Dickson.
- DirectorWilliam K.L. DicksonAn athlete swings Indian clubs.William experiments with film again, joining pictures together to form a moving picture, of an athlete simply swinging clubs from India.
- DirectorWilliam K.L. DicksonExperimental film to test the new kinetoscope which depicts two men practicing fencing.The first film to ever show sport, made by William K.L Dickson. Not released to the public in it's time.
- DirectorÉmile ReynaudOne night, Arlequin come to see his lover Colombine. But then Pierrot knocks at the door and Colombine and Arlequin hide. Pierrot starts singing but Arlequin scares him and the poor man goes away.The first animated film of all time. The animation is shaky compared to modern standards, but back in the day, it was considered magic. It is also considered the first colour film by some.
- DirectorWilliam K.L. DicksonStarsCharles KayserJohn OttThree men hammer on an anvil and pass a bottle of beer around.The first film to be staged, and the first film to be shown to a vast audience. It was an achievement in cinema for it's time, as they never had narratives in film before. If this were never made, the films today would have no story.
- DirectorWilliam K.L. DicksonStarsFred OttA man (Thomas Edison's assistant) takes a pinch of snuff and sneezes. This is one of the earliest Thomas Edison films and was the first motion picture to be copyrighted in the United States.The first ever film to of been copyrighted in the United States, this film displays a man sneezing. A much bigger update in film than one would think.
- DirectorWilliam K.L. DicksonStarsCarmencitaPerforming on what looks like a small wooden stage, wearing a dress with a hoop skirt and white high-heeled pumps, Carmencita does a dance with kicks and twirls, a smile always on her face.The first film to start discussions of censorship. Some people thought the film was sexual, and they thought it should of had a restriction on who could of watched it.
- DirectorWilliam K.L. DicksonStarsWilliam K.L. DicksonThe earliest extant sound film. William K.L. Dickson stands in the background next to a huge sound pickup horn connected to a Thomas Edison phonograph recorder. As he plays a violin, two men dance in the foreground. This film was made to demonstrate a new Thomas Edison machine, the Kinetophone. These machines were Kinetoscope peepshow viewers mated with Thomas Edison wax cylinder phonographs. But the Kinetophone never caught on and this film was never released. The film still exists, but the phonograph soundtrack has been lost.The first film to of had a musical score. If this were never made, we'd have no background music in film! Although not ghastly for some movies, other movies need music to fit the tone. A wonderful experiment in filmmaking this is, indeed.
- DirectorAlfred ClarkStarsRobert ThomaeMrs. Robert L. ThomasThis short film, one of the first to use camera tricks, depicts the execution of Mary, Queen of Scots.The first decapitation on film, also making it the first camera trick on film. Revolutionary for it's time, and if it weren't for this film, we'd have no violence in film. Good thing to some, bad thing to others. Some people consider this unofficially the first horror film.
- DirectorLouis LumièreStarsFrançois ClercBenoît DuvalAn impudent child plays a prank on a gardener innocently watering his plants.The first fully staged film projected in public to run on a fictional story. An amusing short that stays a very important part in cinematic history.
- DirectorWilliam K.L. DicksonWilliam HeiseStarsAnnabelle MooreAnnabelle (Whitford) Moore performs one of her popular dance routines. She uses her dance steps and her long, flowing skirts to create a variety of visual patterns.It isn't the first colour film, but it's the first "hand-tinted" live action colour film. The first film with true colour was made later on, however this remains a landmark in film's history anyway because of how the colour displayed the emotion of the video.
- DirectorLouis LumièreWorkers leaving the Lumière factory for lunch in Lyon, France in 1895; a place of great photographic innovation and one of the birth places of cinema.The first film where you had to pay to view the film. If it weren't for this film, you'd have to go to the cinema for free. It sounds good to the average person, but to any filmmaker, that would be a nightmare. You'd never get money back from your films!
- DirectorGeorges MélièsGeorge Melies's first film, and one of his best. An accomplishment in cinema, as it is the birth of a true cinematic genius who introduced story telling into film and was the first short film to use a variety of special effects, rather than just one.
- DirectorGeorges MélièsStarsJehanne d'AlcyGeorges MélièsIn this fantastic scene, a man who is eager to retire has a difficult time finding peace, as his nocturnal illusions come to life out of thin air.George Melies's second film, and just as good as his first. He succeeds yet again in special effects, and introduces us to even more magic on the screen, accompanied with a story.
- DirectorGeorges MélièsStarsJehanne d'AlcyJules-Eugène LegrisGeorges MélièsWith the help of a magic cauldron, Mephistopheles conjures up a variety of supernatural characters.The first to depict a vampire in film. Some say it's the first horror film ever made, but the opinion remains controversial, as the film is intended to make one laugh rather than scare them. But, it has a small spot in history, as it was like nothing people had ever seen before.
- DirectorAuguste LumièreLouis LumièreStarsMadeleine KoehlerMarcel KoehlerMrs. Auguste LumiereA train arrives at La Ciotat station.The first film to give people the idea of 3D. It simply shows a train, charging towards the screen. This film is known by all film buffs, and stays a landmark in history, as it's one of the first movies to be screened to a large variety. Some people mistake this to be the first film ever made, which it isn't. That award goes to Buffalo Running.
- DirectorWilliam HeiseStarsMay IrwinJohn C. RiceIn a medium close-up shot of the first kiss ever recorded on screen, two fervent lovers cuddle and talk passionately at hair's breadth, just before the love-smitten gentleman decides to give his chosen one an innocent peck.The first kiss to ever of been shown of film. It was considered controversial for it's time, as some thought that adult topics shouldn't of been in film. It stays a landmark in history though, because if it weren't for this film, the romance films of today would have no cliche kissing scenes!
- DirectorCamille CerfStarsTsar Nicholas IITsarina AlexandraGrand Duchess AnastasiaThe coronation of the Russian Tsar Nicholas II in Moscow.Earliest surviving Russian film, displaying the coronation of Nicholas the Second. An important part in the Russian film industry, but it's nothing compared to the other achievements on film.
- A woman undresses after a Ball.(I cannot put the 1897 one on here, so do forgive me.)
The 1897 film, "After The Ball, The Bath," is the first use of nudity on film. It was considered controversial for it's time, as people thought the film was of a pervert's work. If it weren't for this film, we wouldn't have porn today. - DirectorGeorge Albert SmithStarsLaura BayleyTom GreenA man and woman are flirting when a professor turns on an X-ray machine, revealing their insides. After turning it off again the two have a dispute and break up.This film contains some of the most iconic imagery in film, the imagery known by mostly every fan of film. It was a film far ahead of its time, and it deserves a spot on film history for sure.
- DirectorGeorges MélièsStarsGeorges MélièsAt a solitary cheap inn, a distant traveller overcome with fatigue has a close encounter with the supernatural.Another great film by the genius George, this film is known for it's iconic scene, where the candle blows up. It's a scene plenty of film buffs will know, and the scene makes the film deserve a spot in film history.
- DirectorGeorges MélièsStarsJehanne d'AlcyGeorges MélièsAn astronomer falls asleep and has a strange dream involving a fairy queen and the Moon.When it was made, it was considered the most imaginative film of all time. The special effects were groundbreaking then, and the storyline is simple compared to modern standards, but it was the first of it's kind back then. This deserves a huge spot in film history, as some today still consider it the best film of all time. I'd say this is in George's top five films.
- DirectorGeorge Albert SmithStarsLaura BayleyDorothy SmithHarold SmithBrother and sister are sent to bed on Christmas Eve, and while they are asleep, Santa Claus comes down the chimney and fills their waiting stockings with toys.The first ever depiction of Santa Claus, shown on film. A truly magical film for it's time, even if there is no narrative structure to support it.
- DirectorGeorges MélièsStarsJehanne d'AlcyGeorges MélièsThe pious St. Anthony is tormented by visions of seductive women.One of the first films to handle the topic of seduction. The film caused controversy, but it was very minor, and most people enjoyed the film. It deserves a small spot in film history.
- DirectorGeorges MélièsStarsMlle BarralBleuette BernonCarmelliA fairy godmother magically turns Cinderella's rags to a beautiful dress, and a pumpkin into a coach. Cinderella goes to the ball, where she meets the Prince - but will she remember to leave before the magic runs out?The first adaption of the classic story of Cinderella. A huge part of film history, this film had some of the best special effects for it's time. The audience were blown away when they watched it.
- DirectorGeorge Albert SmithStarsLaura BayleyGeorge Albert SmithA humorous subject intended to be run as a part of a railroad scene during the period in which the train is passing through a tunnel.The earliest use of the technique "Phantom Ride." It deserves a small spot in film history.
- DirectorJ. Stuart BlacktonStarsJ. Stuart BlacktonA cartoonist defies reality when he draws objects that become three-dimensional after he lifts them off his sketch pad.One of the first uses of animation and live action joined together. This sort of special effect was used a lot in the 1960s to the 1990s, and nowadays, we still use this sort of special effect. We just use CGI instead. It is a wonderful film though, and I think it stands the test of time.
- DirectorCecil M. HepworthStarsCecil M. HepworthHenry LawleyAs two couples enjoy their evening promenade in a nice but rickety open motor car, without notice, an explosion blows the vehicle to smithereens.The first use of the cliche "blowing-up-car." Quite an amusing short, but not too big a part in film history.
- DirectorGeorges MélièsStarsBleuette BernonJeanne CalvièreJehanne d'AlcyA divinely inspired peasant woman becomes an army captain for France and then is martyred after she is captured.The first adaption of Joan of Arc story. Later on, they made another adaption, but this was considered a masterpiece in 1900, and I'd say it is too. It's amazing how in 1883, a running buffalo was considered a masterpiece, and in just seventeen years, a masterpiece like this film is made. A big leap in cinema, and a huge part of cinematic history.
- DirectorArthur MarvinStarsAnonymousSherlock Holmes enters his drawing room to find it being burgled, but on confronting the villain is surprised when the latter disappears. Holmes initially attempts to ignore the event by lighting a cigar, but upon the thief's reappearance, Holmes tries to reclaim the sack of stolen goods, drawing a pistol from his dressing gown pocket and firing it at the intruder, who disappears. After Holmes recovers his property, the bag vanishes from his hand into that of the thief, who promptly disappears through a window. At this point the movie ends abruptly with Holmes looking "baffled".The first depiction of our fellow detective Sherlock Holmes in film. You can view this film, but not much is known about it. The actor for Sherlock Holmes is simply anonymous. A mysterious but decent short that deserves a spot in film history.
- DirectorJames WilliamsonStarsMr. JamesMr. LepardFlorence WilliamsonThe titles tell us this film is based on an incident in the Boxer Rebellion. A man tries to defend a woman and a large house against Chinese attackers. They attack with swords, guns, and paddles. He's over-matched. What will become of the mission, its defenders, and its occupants?Some argue that this film had the most well developed plot of 1900. I disagree, but as I consider this film a masterpiece for it's time, purely for the sake of good story telling, I think this deserves a spot in cinematic history.
- DirectorGeorges MélièsStarsGeorges MélièsJehanne d'AlcyBleuette BernonA young woman becomes the eighth wife of the wealthy Bluebeard, whose first seven wives have died under mysterious circumstances.This is what I consider to be the first horror film of all time. I think it's astounding that one could ever think of making a film to scare someone. One would wonder back then, who would want to see that? Luckily for us, George gently crafted this masterpiece which I think started the horror franchise, and we still haven't made horror films better than this yet. This deserves the couch in cinematic history in my opinion.
- DirectorJames WilliamsonStarsSam DaltonA man, objecting to being filmed, comes closer and closer to the camera lens until his mouth is all we see. Then he opens wide and swallows camera and cinematographer. He steps back, chews, and grins.The first film to break the fourth wall. This film is simple, but surrealistic, and I would of never of thought of such a thing back in the day. A weird masterpiece that deserves a place in cinematic history. If it weren't for this film, that crap Deadpool film would have no fourth wall jokes!
- DirectorJames WilliamsonFirefighters ring for help, and here comes the ladder cart; they hitch a horse to it. A second horse-drawn truck joins the first, and they head down the street to a house fire. Inside a man sleeps, he awakes amidst flames and throws himself back on the bed. In comes a firefighter, hosing down the blaze. He carries out the victim, down a ladder to safety. Other firefighters enter the house to save belongings, and out comes one with a baby. The saved man rejoices, but it's not over yet. Another resident appears upstairs. He jumps.The first fire to be displayed on film. The film is no masterpiece, but it stays in major film history because back in the day, not much people had viewed the intensity of a fire. This film shows a fire, which astounded and shocked those who had never seen one. The fire in this actually looks quite real, so I'll give credit to the special effects creator.
- DirectorGeorges MélièsThis picture depicts the eruption of the volcano by which over 30,000 souls were hurled into eternity. The numerous explosions which took place during the eruption are plain to be seen. Thousands upon thousands of tons of molten lava, sand, rocks and steam are thrown high in the air and descend with crushing force upon the unfortunate inhabitants of the doomed city of St. Pierre. This is the worst calamity which occurred since a similar eruption by Mt. Vesuvius when Pompeii was destroyed.Many call it the first disaster film of all time. I don't, but I do call it the work of a genius. I love this film, and calling it a disaster film is an insult to the film in my opinion. The film has such an astounding feel to it, words cannot describe the genius of this film. I declare it a masterpiece, a work of art, made with passion! Remarkable special effects for it's time, and deserves the queen sized bed of film history.
- DirectorGeorges MélièsStarsGeorges MélièsGulliver washes ashore on Lilliput, the inhabitants of which are no more than six inches tall. He later travels to Brobdingnag, a country populated by giants.A decent short film which is the first to adapt Gulliver's Travels onto the screen. It deserves a place in film history, as it is the first to take Gullivers Travels off the page and onto the screen, but it is no masterpiece.
- DirectorJames WilliamsonA poor young girl tries to sell matches in a snowstorm. After being robbed by bullies, she lights matches which illuminate visions of a far happier Christmas than the one she faces.The first adaption of the story, The Little Match Seller. Quite a good film, and is faithful to the tone of the story.
- DirectorGeorge S. FlemingEdwin S. PorterStarsJames H. WhiteThomas WhitePorter's sequential continuity editing links several shots to form a narrative of the famous fairy tale story of Jack and his magic beanstalk. Borrowing on cinematographic methods reminiscent of 'Georges Melies', Porter uses animation, double exposure, and trick photography to illustrate the fairy's apparitions, Jack's dream, and the fast growing beanstalk.Oh, how the special effects became great in 1902! A wonderful film experimenting with special effects, this was amazing work for it's time. It has aged, though, but still remains the best adaption of the story to date. It is also the first adaption of the old story, Jack And The Beanstalk.
- DirectorGeorges MélièsStarsGeorges MélièsVictor AndréBleuette BernonA group of astronomers go on an expedition to the Moon.Now this, THIS is a masterpiece. Crafted with George's utmost passion and imagination, this film towers among others. The tone, the story, the visual effects, the cinematography...it's hard to explain why this is a masterpiece, it just is. It also has the iconic scene of the moon, getting a rocket into his face. All true film buffs know the image. An absolute masterpiece this is. It deserves the top spot in film history, and it hasn't aged one bit. A much better film than most made today.
- DirectorEdwin S. PorterStarsCarl GoliathTopsyThe execution of Topsy, a female elephant, in a publicity stunt advertising the opening of Luna Park on Coney Island. Topsy was originally owned by Forepaugh Circus where she killed a drunken spectator who burned the tip of her trunk with a cigar. She was sold to Sea Lion Park in 1902 which was then sold to new owners who turned it into Luna Park. After they decided they could no longer handle her, the owners of Luna Park announced they would hang Topsy, leading to an outcry by the ASPCA. The owners then decided they would electrocute the elephant, with a backup plan of feeding her cyanide-laced carrots and strangling her with a cable.This film is disturbing, and sick. It is real footage, of animal cruelty. A horrible watch, but even if it is, it still deserves a spot in film history, unfortunately.
- DirectorGeorges MélièsStarsGeorges MélièsThe leader of a marching band demonstrates an unusual way of writing music.All film buffs know this film. It isn't a masterpiece, but it is very memorable. There is an iconic image in this film, so if you are interested in film history and you haven't seen this yet, go see it, and say, "Hey, I recognize that scene!"
- DirectorLucien NonguetFerdinand ZeccaStarsMadame MoreauMonsieur MoreauThe story of Jesus Christ from the proclamation of his Nativity to his crucifixion. Impressive scenes and dynamism of the actors prelude to the Italian colossal movies of the silent period.The first film to go longer than fourty minutes. It's not a feature length film now, but it was considered to be an exhaustively long movie back in the day. A very serious, yet good Christian film, that moves at the right pace. It deserves a small place in film history.
- DirectorGeorges MélièsStarsGeorges MélièsMarguerite ThévenardBleuette BernonIn this spectacular free adaptation of the popular theatre play "La Biche au Bois", the valiant Prince Bel-Azor pursues a baleful old witch to her impregnable castle, to save the beautiful young Princess Azurine.A good short, with one of the most iconic scenes in film history. Directed by the genius who made A Trip To The Moon, this remains swell, but it's no masterpiece compared to A Trip To The Moon.
- DirectorGeorges MélièsStarsAndré DeedGeorges MélièsRobinson Crusoe and Friday fight with hostile natives, and eventually retire to their jungle cottage to relax.The first adaption of the legendary tale of Robinson Crusoe. It remains a remarkable achievement in film history.
- DirectorCecil M. HepworthPercy StowStarsMay ClarkCecil M. HepworthBlairThis is the first movie version of the famous story. Alice dozes in a garden, awakened by a dithering white rabbit in waistcoat with pocket watch. She follows him down a hole and finds herself in a hall of many doors.The first film to depict the book Alice In Wonderland. Not the best adaption, but a piece of shining silver it is indeed.
- DirectorEdwin S. PorterStarsGilbert M. 'Broncho Billy' AndersonA.C. AbadieGeorge BarnesA group of bandits stage a brazen train hold-up, only to find a determined posse hot on their heels.Ah, yes...the great train robbery. This film was the one that started the western genre, and remains an achievement in cinema. It is outstanding how they could make such great special effects in 1903. They have made other western movies now, but it was the first of it's kind when it was made. A must see for lovers of film.
- DirectorJames WilliamsonThe adventures of an inattentive man. He's at his kitchen table, reading. A woman brings his hat and points to the clock. He continues reading and pours coffee into his hat. He leaves, still reading, trips over a servant who's on her hands and knees cleaning the walk. He walks through jump-roping girls, runs into a mule, walks into the only other person on an empty street, and then walks into the path of a steamroller. Two cyclists approach his flattened body. Out come their air pumps, and soon our genial hero has set off again, nose in his book.The first slapstick comedy film ever made, which is why it has made it onto the film history list. A very important part of film history that may of influenced Charlie Chaplin's films.
- DirectorGeorges MélièsStarsGeorges MélièsFernande AlbanyJehanne d'AlcyUsing every known means of transportation, several savants from the Geographic Society undertake a journey through the Alps to the Sun which finishes under the sea.Another George Melies film, which is one of the most known ones. A great film which has great special effects for it's time, and the adventure film feel George Melies has perfectly captured. Wonderful film with iconic images one may recognize, like the sinking boat, and the sun. An important part of film history.
- DirectorGeorges MélièsStarsGeorges MélièsA magician conjures up a mermaid while fishing.Most film buffs know the image of the mermaid. The remarkable image, which has stayed in film history, is in this decent film. I wouldn't say the film deserves to be in film history, but the memorable image of the mermaid made me generous.
- DirectorEdwin S. PorterIt's December 24th, and 'Santa Claus' is busy feeding his reindeer and finishing up the toys that he will soon deliver. Meanwhile, the children in a large family hang their stockings over the fireplace, and then are put to bed. But the restless children cannot sleep, and they soon start a lively pillow fight. Back at his workshop, Santa loads up everything and begins his journey.The first adaption of the Night Before Christmas story. Deserves a place in film history.
- DirectorGeorges MélièsStarsManuelGeorges MélièsA gang of cutthroats set ablaze a farmhouse after killing the farmer and stealing the proceeds of his sales. Captured and tried for his crimes, the pitiless plunderer faces death by guillotine, but first, a night of pure agony awaits.A simple, yet magical film with memorable scenes you might recognize. Because of iconic scenes, this deserves a place in the vastness of film history....and it deserves a good place, indeed.
- DirectorGeorges MélièsStarsGeorges MélièsTwo travelers are tormented by Satan from inn to inn and eventually experience a buggy ride through the heavens courtesy of the Devil.If you're a film buff, you probably would of heard of this film, if not of watched it. This astounding film stays a classic in film history, yet isn't in the usual comedic way of George Melies. It is not a comedy, but, ah, yes, a horror, that sends chills down the spine of every viewer. There are a lot of scenes you will recognize if you haven't seen this, so watch it, and understand the importance of the film and why it marks on film history.
- DirectorCharles TaitStarsElizabeth TaitJohn TaitNicholas BrierleyOriginally 70 minutes in running time, only 17 minutes of the world's first full-length narrative feature film survived in stills and other fragments and tell the story of Ned Kelly, an infamous 19th-century Australian outlaw.The first feature length film ever made. This film continues on the Western Genre, crafting a film of decency in story, but remarkably in achievement. If it weren't for this film, the films of today would still be only around thirty minutes long. Although not too bad a thing, we'd not be able to fit in what we want into a film if it were short. A very important part of film history.
- DirectorGeorges MélièsStarsManuelGeorges MélièsUndersea adventures in a submarine by a dreaming fisherman who encounters mystical underwater creatures at odds with him. A parody on Jules Verne's novel.The first ever adaption of the novel 20,000 Leagues Under The Sea, which would later on be adapted again into an even longer film. The special effects were groundbreaking for it's time, and pictured the scenario of 20,000 Leagues Under The Sea perfectly.
- DirectorSidney OlcottFrank Oakes RoseStarsGene GauntierHarry T. MoreyWilliam S. HartThe scene opens with an assembly of citizens who are harangued by one of their number, whose words have great weight with the crowd, and their attitude of approval shows that Roman misrule in Jerusalem has reached its climax. Heralds now approach and Roman soldiers beat back the crowd to make way for the approach of the Roman Procurator. The scene changes to the home of Ben Hur, who is seen with his sister and mother on the house top. The cavalcade of Roman troops approaches, and to get a near view Ben Hur leans from the coping and knocks down one of the stones thereof onto the shoulder of the Procurator. This is seen and misconstrued by the Governor, who orders soldiers to arrest the inmates; they, after ineffectual pleas and struggles, are carried off. Ben Hur is consigned to the galleys, where he is loaded with chains. Here he signalizes himself by saving the life of Arrias, who publicly adopts him as his son and proclaims him a Roman citizen amidst the acclamations of the assembled crowd in the forum. Now comes the scene in the games where Ben Hur is challenged by Messala, and accepts it, to the great delight of the citizens. The chariots and athletes parade before the dais and in due time are arranged, and the chariot race commences. Three times 'round the ring dash the chariots, and at the fourth turn Ben Hur comes out the victor and is crowned with the wreath, to the great, chagrin of Messala, who is borne on a stretcher, wounded to death.The first ever adaption of the Ben Hur tale. A great achievement of it's time, and it towers above the 2016 one. A great watch, and a part of film history to be treasured.
- DirectorGeorges MélièsStarsMlle. BodsonManuelGeorges MélièsAs the clock strikes twelve, a weary astronomer attempts to answer the impertinent enquiries of his young students by scrutinising an impending lunar eclipse, as an effeminate and delicate moon caresses the mighty sun's hungry cosmic rays.Most film buffs know the image, of the woman flying with the star behind her head. It has become such an iconic scene in film history, and is known by the variety of film audiences. That scene is in this film. George Melies yet again, makes another remarkable achievement in filmmaking.
- CreatorPaco BenjumeaStarsPaco BenjumeaYuri D. BrownNathalie Legosles(I cannot put on the 1907 one, so do forgive me.)
El Satario, the 1907 one, was the first pornographic film to have sex in it. Considered controversial for it's time, this film breaks the limits of entertainment. An interesting watch if you're bored, and a pleasant stain on the film history. - DirectorD.W. GriffithG.W. BitzerStarsArthur V. JohnsonLinda ArvidsonGladys EganOn a warm and sunny summer's day, a mother and father take their young daughter Dollie on a riverside outing. A gypsy basket peddler happens along, and is angered when the mother refuses to buy his wares. He attacks mother and daughter but is driven off by the father. Later the gypsy sneaks back and kidnaps the girl. A rescue party is organized but the gypsy conceals the child in a 30 gallon barrel which he precariously places on the tail of the wagon. He and his gypsy-wife make their getaway by fording the river with the wagon. The barrel, with Dollie still inside, breaks free, tumbling into into the river; it starts floating toward the peril of a nearby waterfall . . .D.W Griffith, a genius filmmaker, directs his first film. It is called, the Adventures Of Dollie. Although not a great film, this goes on the film history list, as we get a glimpse of the director's imagination, and we get to see what a cinematic genius he would become.
- DirectorSegundo de ChomónThree friends go on a trip and decided to rest at an abandoned house. Everything seems pretty normal until really weird things start to happen.The first use of disturbing imagery mixed with comedy in film.
- StarsWilliam V. RanousMaurice CostelloWilliam HumphreyThe present subject deals with the imprisonment of Jean Valjean and the incidents immediately following his release. He is first shown in his humble home, his family utterly destitute. Half-crazed by hunger and the sufferings of his wife and children, Jean breaks the window of a bake shop and steals a single loaf of bread, with which he hurries home to his little ones, who eagerly seize the crusty loaf as the gendarmes arrive to apprehend the thief. Condemned to serve in the galleys, his sentence is prolonged by his frequent efforts to escape, but at last the governor of the prison sends for him. He is given his passport, on which is entered the evil record of this law-made criminal, and with a few coins in his pocket he is given his liberty, clad in filthy rags, with matted hair and beard and without a friend in the world. The money avails him little, for the people will have naught to do with a jailbird and they turn him from their doors. He at last arrives at the home of the good bishop, who makes him welcome at his own table and offers him a bed for the night, greatly to the alarm of the women of his household. The clock striking three rouses the ex-convict, and. stealing into the bishop's room, he robs the good man of the household silver. He escapes from the house without detection, but any passing police officer has the right to inspect his passport, and Jean's appearance makes him an object of suspicion to all; no seeks to escape by flight, but is caught and confronted with the bishop in the latter's home. The officers are proud of their capture, but the man of God denies the theft, well knowing what Jean's fate will be if he is returned to the galleys: and to make more convincing his denial of theft, he hands to Valjean his silver candlesticks. "I gave these too," he declares, "You must have forgotten them." The abashed officers retire with the bishop's blessing, and his fervent prayers affect the stony heart of the convict, who kneels in prayer beside his benefactor.The first film to show the pages of Victor Hugo's masterpiece. Sadly, this film is no masterpiece, but it remains a relic in film history.
- DirectorFrancis BoggsStarsRoscoe 'Fatty' ArbuckleTom SantschiHarry ToddBuck Minor was the most detested man in Wolf Hollow, partly because he was quarrelsome and treacherous, partly because he abused and neglected his little wife, Molly, whom all the camp adored, and for whose sake it tolerated Buck. A bright baby girl was Molly's only comfort and gave her courage to endure the hardships which otherwise must have crushed her. The opening scene of the story shows a street in Wolf Hollow. Buck is on one of his usual rampages, and running into an athletic cowpuncher who is in town to spend his money, he makes an insulting remark and is soundly drubbed by the younger Hercules of the plains. Buck is proud of his fistic ability, and his defeat by a stranger before the denizens of the camp is more than he can stand, so he determines to pull up stakes and migrate to other parts. Stumbling along home to his cabin, he bursts into the one little room where his patient wife is rocking the little child to sleep, and with an angry growl informs her that he is going to "pull his freight" out of Wolf Hollow forever, and that she must accompany him, but leave the baby behind. Molly clasps the child wildly to her breast and begs piteously to be allowed to take her little one, but Buck is obdurate and gains his point by threatening to kill the infant unless she consents to leave it. Scrawling a note which he intends to leave, offering the child to anyone who may find it, he makes preparations for his immediate departure. Clinging wildly to her little one, the distracted mother is soon dragged from the house and told to mount one of the horses waiting without. Thus we see them riding away toward the setting sun, an inhuman father rejoicing in the prospects of shaking the dust of the hater camp from off his boots, a broken-hearted mother choking with sobs, thinking only of the helpless baby alone and deserted in the little cabin on the hill. Slippery Ann, a half-witted girl of the camp, meets Buck and his wife while on her return from a journey into the foothills, and is entrusted with the note Buck has written regarding the child. Hurrying on to Wolf Hollow. Ann turns the note over to Judge Honk, the father of the camp and dispenser of law and justice. The Judge is greatly exercised over the heartlessness of Buck, and calling the inhabitants of the camp about him, soon organizes a rescue party to repair to the deserted cabin of the Minors' and ascertains what truth there was in the strange letter. No time is lost in reaching the shack on the hill, and there, sure enough, lying on the bed is the infant. Taking it up rather gingerly in his arms, as though he were afraid of breaking it. Judge Honk heads the procession out the door and down the hill to the camp where a mass meeting is at once held to discuss ways and means of taking care of the kid. Cherokee Jim, the bartender of the "thirst emporium," suggests that they raffle off the youngster and whoever draws the winning card shall be the kid's adopted daddy. The raffle is quickly pulled off, and Ben Brooks, a good-natured, big-hearted cowpuncher, draws the lucky number. Ben almost reneges when he realizes what he has on his hands, but the cheers of good wishes of the rest of the bunch brace him up and they all retire to the "thirst parlor" to have one on the new daddy. After that "Ben's Kid" (as the baby is christened) becomes the one absorbing topic of conversation. Around the camp that night in the bunk house, a half-dozen sleepy punchers are trying to get some rest, while Ben in his bare feet is prancing around the room, jolting the baby up and down, while the youngster, terrified at its new surroundings, is making the welkin ring with its screams. "Fatty Carter," the heaviest weight on the range, does an Indian war dance, but to no avail. At last they all agree that the kid is sick, and a puncher is at once dispatched on the fastest bronco on the ranch to bring Judge Honk to the scene of battle at once (every one, of course, having absolute faith in the ability and knowledge of the Judge in all matters) to bring them out of the difficulty. The Judge soon arrives loaded down with mustard, and old-fashioned remedies of all kinds, and at once starts in to bring order out of chaos. Now, to return to Buck and his heartbroken wife. All afternoon they have traveled until near nightfall. The horses are unsaddled, the pack removed from the lead animal, and preparations are made to camp till morning. Now Molly has been turning over in her mind a plan, although a desperate one, it seems, the only loophole out of her present misery. Waiting until Buck has fallen into a sound slumber, she cautiously steals away from the camp fire and makes for a clump of trees in which are fettered the horses. Releasing her pony, she springs on his back and dashes away in the black night over the homeward trail. Aroused by the sound of her horses' hoofs. Buck awakes, and with a terrible oath upon realizing that Molly has outwitted him, goes crashing through the brush to his horse, and quickly saddling him, gallops away in pursuit of the fleeing woman, determined to overtake and kill her rather than let her escape from him for good. But he does not reckon on the swiftness of Molly's mount, and though he plies both whip and spur, his jaded horse is unable to gain a foot on the game little sorrel. On over rocks, through the stream, now down the slope of the mountain and across the gulch speeds the desperate woman, every nerve pounding on her brain, and every muscle strained to its utmost tension, her lips moving in silent prayer that she might outstrip the dread pursuer and regain the child fur whom her mother's heart cries out in bitter anguish. At last, brave girl, the goal is reached. Her way leads past the ranch on which Ben Brooks and the U.X. outfit are quartered, and seeing a light in the bunk house, the terrified woman heads her horse toward the beacon ray of hope. She barely reaches the door when the infuriated husband dashes up, bursting into the room. Molly startles the boys and the Judge into action. Buck, losing his head beyond control, follows her. "Save me," shrieks the terrified Molly. In an instant Buck finds himself in the grasp of a dozen willing hands. With a strength born of frenzy, he dashes them aside and draws his gun to shoot the cowering girl, when his aim is spoiled by quick action on Ben's part, and the Judge gets the bullet in his arm. Howling with pain, he yells to the punchers to hang the "varmint." But Buck is too quick for them, and knocking down a couple of the buys, he rushes his way out the door, and throwing himself into the saddle, plunges away into the night. No time is lost in going after him. Twenty swift riders are in the saddle before ten minutes have elapsed and they are off after the hated Buck, whose horse, already worn out from the other chase, is soon overtaken. A lariat hurls through the air and settles down about his neck, thus ending all hopes of escape for the fugitive. A letter written a year later to the Judge tells us what they did to Buck, while Molly, the pretty widow, is persuaded to let Ben retain his title to the kid by allowing Judge Honk to tie the knot, and Mr. and Mrs. Brooks start out on life's journey together, taking with them the good will and well wishes of the entire camp. -- The Moving Picture World, June 26, 1909The first appearance of Roscoe Arbuckle on film. Deserves a small part in film history.
- DirectorJ. Searle DawleyStarsMary FullerCharles OgleAugustus PhillipsThe first filmed version of Frankenstein. The young doctor discovers the secret of life, which he uses to create a perfect human. Things do not go according to plan.The first ever adaption of Mary Shelley's masterpiece novel, Frankenstein. The tale is woven out of the pages and onto the screen, capturing the terror of the tale and the magic of the masterpiece. A good film that has a part in history, that unfortunately cannot compare to the book.
- DirectorOtis TurnerStarsBebe DanielsHobart BosworthEugenie BessererAn early version of the classic, based more on the 1902 stage musical than on the original novel.Believe it or not, the 1939 movie was not the only one! This film, although not in colour, adapts the story into a carefully woven film, which hasn't stood the test of time, but has remained in the fascinating past of film.
- DirectorFrancesco BertoliniAdolfo PadovanGiuseppe de LiguoroStarsSalvatore PapaArturo PirovanoGiuseppe de LiguoroLoosely adapted from Dante's Divine Comedy and inspired by the illustrations of Gustav Doré the original silent film has been restored and has a new score by Tangerine Dream.The first film to show male frontal nudity, and the first film to adapt the famous poem, "Dante's Inferno." It was also the first film over half an hour long to of been shown in it's entirety, rather than separate parts like a serial.
- DirectorShôzô MakinoStarsMatsunosuke OnoeThe first Japanese film. Not much is known about this film, but it still has a place in film history, despite not being well known.
- DirectorDhundiraj Govind PhalkeStarsD.D. DabkeAnna SalunkeGanpat G. ShindeThe film opens with a Ravi Varma like tableau showing King Harishchandra, his wife Taramati and his young son. The king is teaching his son archery. They go on a hunt. The king enters an area controlled by the Sage Vishwamitra. Three furies appear before the king caught in flames. The king tries to rescue them. These fairies try to seduce the king into renouncing his kingdom for his love of truth. The king endures much hardship including being banished from his kingdom before a god appears to reassure everyone that the whole narrative was merely a test of the king's integrity.The first Bollywood film of all time. Some claim it to be a masterpiece, others call it the dawn of crap.