Edison Kinetoscope Films

Youtube Video of Edison Kinetoscope Films (1894-1896)

(Courtesy: Therese Grisham)

In the Edison Kinetoscope Films (1894-1896), a series of attractions can be seen. A couple, boxing match, strong man, serpentine dancer, cock fight, barber shop, doves, and seminary girls can all be seen in this cinematic clip. All of which can be appreciated for its simplicity and ability to set a precedence for all of the entertainment industry after. Prior to this post I was unaware that Thomas Edison created the Kinetoscope as he is primarily well recognized for the invention of the light bulb. Society should acknowledge the contributions he has made along with his colleagues towards the progression of modern technology on a daily basis. It is astounding that at the turn of the 20th century, so much was accomplished.

The Kinetoscope was made famous by Thomas Edison and his team for bringing a personal motion picture device using a confined space to display images on a perforated film over a light source in which an individual can view from a peep hole. This was a precursor to the earliest forms of video and projection. This film, despite its short length sets a standard for the industry as well as inspired future projects that would add to the history of cinematography and animation. My love for movies would not existed had this invention not been created. Overall, I thought the clips were well made, capturing the essence of life at the time of its filming in addition to drawing attention to a new medium that entertainers could reach their audience through. 

Steamboat Willie

Youtube Clip of Steamboat Willie (1928)

 (Courtesy: Walt Disney Animation Studios)

Steamboat Willie, the first fully synchronized sound cartoon by Walt Disney, is a classic animation that spans many generations. Being known for its iconic characters Mickey and Minnie Mouse, this cartoon had everything I personally like in a film. The storyline was well developed, attention to detail was present, the character appeal in the protagonist, and humor. 

In the video posted above, a short clip of Steamboat Willie can be seen. The video opens with the Steamboat, which is given movements to certain non-mechanical components as if it were alive. The smoke stacks, steamboat whistle and crane hook are given lifelike characteristics. Right away it is established that conventionally inanimate objects can possess conscious actions. This is seen in many other cartoons as well, yet is worth noting since the supporting animations contribute to the overall persona of Mickey Mouse, one of the most recognized characters in all of the world. He is so iconic that he is the first cartoon character to ever star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. As the clip continues, the innocence of Mickey Mouse can immediately be seen as the over joyous steamboat worker is going about his day at work. This can be seen throughout Mickey's career and lends reason to why is he so beloved.

With only 7 minutes and 22 seconds in this clip, this animation features so many movements and details that help build the storyline. After having completed my own 200 page hand drawn flip book animation, I can only imagine how long it took to finish such a storyboard. Walt Disney and his animators were extremely creative with this tale of Steamboat Willie, which years after being considered an adult still find this cartoon appealing to my inner kid. It brings about happiness, childhood memories, and an adolescent innocence that not many cartoons have. Having created an animation for this class myself, can say almost anyone even the untalented can create an animation, but creating one that captures the viewer's attention such as this is difficult.