Picturegoers: A Critical Anthology of Eyewitness Experiences

This book is a collection of eyewitness accounts of seeing motion pictures from the 1890s to the present day, from countries around the world. It includes essays, diaries, memoirs, travel accounts, oral history interviews, poems, and extracts from novels, and offers evocative testimony of how cinema touches emotional needs and has had a huge impact on modern society. Picturegoers puts the voices of the audience first, providing a rich and entertaining portrait of a medium that became so transformative because anyone, rich or poor, educated or not, could share in it.

Format: Hardback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 30 August 2022
Publisher: University of Exeter Press

This captivating book is a meticulously curated anthology that presents a diverse range of firsthand accounts of witnessing the magic of motion pictures, spanning from the captivating 1890s to the present day, and originating from diverse corners of the globe. Within its pages, you will find a treasure trove of essays, diaries, memoirs, travel narratives, oral history interviews, poems, and excerpts from novels, all carefully selected to showcase the rich tapestry of cinematic experiences. These verbatim accounts, penned by both professional and amateur writers, have been chosen not only for their invaluable insights into the historical trajectory of cinema across numerous countries but also for their literary merit. Here, you will encounter evocative testimony that illuminates the profound emotional resonance of cinema and its immense impact on modern society.

While most film history studies tend to focus on films or the individuals behind them, Picturegoers takes a unique approach by placing the voices of the audience at the forefront. It delves into the intricate nuances of audience perception, shaped by the passage of time, personal experiences, and geographical locations. Through comprehensive analysis and celebration of the audience's perspective, this book offers a captivating portrayal of a medium that achieved extraordinary transformation precisely because it was accessible to everyone, regardless of their social status, education, or background.

Picturegoers is a captivating read for scholars interested in exploring the intricate relationship between cinema and society, audience studies enthusiasts, and general readers with a keen interest in the rich history of world cinema. Its pages are brimming with insights, anecdotes, and perspectives that will transport you to different eras, cultures, and cinematic landscapes, leaving you with a deeper appreciation for the power of this mesmerizing art form.

Weight: 550g
Dimension: 164 x 242 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781804130124