French Film History, 18951946 Volume 1

French Film History, 18951946 addresses the creative and often unexpected trajectory of French cinema, which continues to be one of the most provocative and engaging cinemas in the world. Tracing French film and its developments from the earliest days, when France dominated world cinema, up through the Occupation and Liberation, Neupert outlines major players and films that made it so influential. Paris held a privileged position as one of the worlds hubs of scientific, social, and cultural experimentation; it is no wonder that the cinema as we know it was born there in the nineteenth century. This book presents French cinemas most significant creative filmmakers and movies but also details the intricate relations between technology, economics, and government that helped shape the unique conditions for cinematic experimentation in the country. Neupert explains the contexts behind the rise of cinema in France, including groundbreaking work by the Lumire family, Georges Mlis, and Alice Guy; the powerhouse studios of Path and Gaumont; directors such as Ren Clair, Germaine Dulac, Marcel Pagnol, and Jean Renoir; and an array of stars, including Max Linder, Jean Gabin, Josephine Baker, and Michle Morgan. The first fifty years of French film practice established cinemas cultural and artistic potential, setting the stage for the global postWorld War II explosion in commercial movies and art cinema alike. French film and its rich history remain at the heart of cinematic storytelling and our moviegoing pleasure.