The Beginnings Of The Cinema In England, 1894-1901

Volume 1: 1894-1896

by John Barnes

Book cover: The Beginnings Of The Cinema In England, 1894-1901

Extent: 312 pages

Publisher: University of Exeter Press

Subjects: Music & Performing Arts

Language: English

Paperback (Published)

(October 2014)

ISBN: 9780859899543

6.81 x 9.61 inches

Price: $45.00

In stock

Hardback (Published)

(November 1998)

ISBN: 9780859895644

6.81 x 9.61 inches

Price: $112.00

In stock

Describing in detail one of the most inventive periods in the history of English cinema, the volumes in this celebrated series are already established as classics in their field. Each volume details the highlights of a single cinematic year, including details of production, manufacturers of equipment, dealers and exhibitors.


Describing in detail one of the most inventive periods in the history of English cinema, the volumes in this celebrated series are already established as classics in their field. Each volume details the highlights of a single cinematic year, including details of production, manufacturers of equipment, dealers and exhibitors. This is augmented by numerous carefully chosen illustrations and a comprehensive filmography of English films, fiction and non-fiction, for the year. Taking the Kinetoscope as its point of departure, Volume 1 explores in depth the progress made in the field of cinematography up until the end of 1896, by which time the film had become the main attraction of almost every major music hall in Great Britain. The contribution made by inventors such as R.W. Paul and Birt Acres is discussed in detail, as is also the work of hitherto forgotten pioneers of the British film.

  • By (author) John Barnes

"The legacy of John Barnes to the study of early cinema can hardly be overestimated. "The Beginnings of Cinema in England is a monumental work and an essential reference guide. Its availability as a paperback is especially welcome to (graduate) students as the five volumes are very complete in situating the birth of cinema within its historical context." Gert Jan Harkema, Historical Journal of Film, Radio and Television, September 2015
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