The Story of Victorian Film

Bryony Dixon's book explores the early film industry in Britain, featuring an eclectic group of pioneers who built a vibrant new industry. She highlights innovative techniques and genres, showcasing the British filmmakers' inventive and creative spirit and their significant influence on the art of film.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 07 September 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

In this captivating and accessible new narrative of the birth of cinema in Britain, renowned film historian and curator Bryony Dixon takes us on a journey to meet the pioneering individuals who laid the foundation for this vibrant new industry. These eclectic group of individuals, hailing from diverse backgrounds such as chemistry, engineering, photography, fairground entertainment, and magic, came together in a few short years to create a thriving film culture. As Dixon delves into the emergence of the first embryonic film forms and genres, she unveils remarkable innovations, ranging from cutting-edge scientific advancements to ingeniously clever tricks and comedies. These filmmakers not only reflected existing entertainment forms but also pushed the boundaries of editing and cinematography, shaping the art of film for many decades to come.

By focusing on the films themselves, many of which have recently become accessible to viewers, Dixon offers fresh perspectives while building upon the work of countless scholars. Through her meticulous research and insightful analysis, Dixon compellingly argues that the British filmmakers of this era were equally inventive and creative as their more celebrated counterparts in France and the United States.

This captivating account of the early days of cinema in Britain provides a valuable glimpse into the rich history and evolution of the film industry. It sheds light on the pioneering individuals who played a crucial role in shaping the art form and their contributions to the world of cinema. Whether you are a film enthusiast or simply interested in the history of media, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the origins and early development of this fascinating medium.

Weight: 426g
Dimension: 215 x 169 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781911239611