The B&C Kinematograph Company and British Cinema: Early-Twentieth Century Spectacle and Melodrama

This book explores the British and Colonial Kinematograph Company's (B&C) history from 1908 to 1916, when it became a leading film producer in Britain. It discusses the company's films, personalities, production methods, business practices, and policy changes, and examines the range of short film genres it manufactured, such as newsworthy topicals and comics, series dramas, and location filming. It also investigates the developing formal properties of the films and how the choice of genres shifted to seek new audiences.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2021
Publisher: University of Exeter Press

This captivating book delves into the previously unexplored realm of early British cinema, offering a comprehensive historical account of the British and Colonial Kinematograph Company (B&C) during the years 1908 to 1916. During this pivotal period, B&C emerged as one of the foremost film producers in Britain, creating a diverse range of short film genres that catered to various tastes and interests.

Gerry Turvey, the author, takes us on a journey through the world of B&C, exploring its films, personalities, production methods, business practices, and policy changes. He sheds light on the company's production of short film genres, including newsworthy topicals, comics, and series dramas, which often drew on the resources of urban Britain's existing popular culture. Turvey discusses B&C's first open-air studio in East Finchley, its extensive use of location filming, and its state-of-the-art studio in Walthamstow. He also delves into the technical aspects of film production, such as the photography and 'staging' of the films, the development of their formal properties, and the significant shifts in genre choices over time in an attempt to attract new audiences.

Through his meticulous research and engaging writing style, Turvey provides a rich and detailed account of the early British cinema industry. This book is a valuable contribution to the field, offering insights into the development of film production, genre trends, and the cultural landscape of early twentieth-century Britain. Whether you are a film enthusiast, historian, or simply interested in exploring the roots of cinema, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of this fascinating period.

Weight: 854g
Dimension: 163 x 381 x 34 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781905816644