Early Film History: From Lumière to German Expressionism

What system became standardized for storytelling in film by the early 1920s?

The Continuity system

What movement did German filmmakers adopt in response to the success of American films in the 1910s and 1920s?

Expressionism

What was the significance of the film 'The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari' (1920)?

It became a great success in Europe and America, exemplifying the Expressionist style.

What was the impact of World War I on the French film industry?

It suffered a severe blow, halting many exports and leading to a reliance on American films.

What was the primary focus of the Lumière brothers' films?

They showcased actualities, capturing real people doing everyday activities.

How did Georges Méliès contribute to the development of narrative films?

He introduced special effects and longer narratives, innovating editing techniques.

What was the first narrative film that included special effects and innovative editing?

'A Trip to the Moon' by Georges Méliès (1902)

What role did the German government play in the film industry during World War I?

They supported the film industry to compete with imported films and create propaganda.

What was the purpose of the VFA formed in 1917 in Germany?

To combine smaller firms and build the best-equipped studios in Europe.

What is the difference between Impressionism and Surrealism in film?

Impressionism: operated within the film industry

Surrealism: lived outside of it.

What was the significance of Eadweard Muybridge's work in 1878?

serial photography to capture motion, influencing the development of cinema.

What was the first successful motion picture projector developed by the Lumière brothers?

The Cinematograph

What was the primary characteristic of early films made by the Lumière brothers?

single shot framing an action.

What was the primary focus of Edison's films compared to the Lumière brothers' films?

Edison's films emphasized human experience and showmanship, while Lumière's focused on reality.

What was the significance of the film 'The Kiss' by Edison?

It sparked debates about censorship due to its sensual nature.

What technological advancement in 1889 was crucial for filmmaking?

The invention of celluloid by George Eastman.

What was the main obstacle filmmakers faced in understanding older films?

Different conventions and censorship that shaped storytelling.

How did filmmakers innovate despite limited options in early cinema?

They rapidly developed techniques that are still used today, even with more options available.

What was the impact of movements in film history?

They encouraged filmmakers to make untraditional and creative choices, influencing future projects.

What is the significance of the term 'actualities' in early cinema?

It referred to films that showcased real events and everyday life, contrasting with constructed narratives.

What was the first film to use the dissolve technique in editing?

'A Trip to the Moon' by Georges Méliès.

What did early filmmakers rely on to create the illusion of motion?

Strands of thousands of images shown in rapid succession.

What was the primary focus of early narrative films?

They were typically short and focused on a single action or event.

What was the significance of the film 'The Train Arriving at La Ciotat'?

It caused a famous audience reaction, as viewers thought the train would hit them.