Blog Post #4: The True Meaning Behind Motion Pictures

To understand the history of film, we must learn about innovations and the future of motion pictures. Motion picture is a term used within film production. Although it is a broad subject, the term is deeply rooted in history. While credit is not given to a single person, many attribute the first series of motion pictures to Louis Le Prince. His fascination with cinematography inspired him to create a 16-lens camera system, and thereafter, he officially filed a patent in the United States and Britain. Even though his 16-lens camera system was a substantial breakthrough in the film landscape, he was dreaming of a greater solution. His solution? A single-lens camera, with benefits that would put the 16-lens camera to shame. These benefits include limiting motion blur, alignment issues, and frame jumping. 

Unfortunately, at the first public exhibit of his work, he was nowhere to be found. It appeared as if he went missing days before he could reap the benefits of that success. Many speculate that rival cinematographers may have had a hand in his unannounced disappearance. For the next 100 years, his death baffled the minds of authorities and theorists alike. Thankfully, in part to his family and many in their community, his work did not go unnoticed, and he is now credited as the "father of cinematography"

Without Louis Le Prince's excellent innovation, we wouldn't be where we are today. Despite the tragic end to his successful life, we have a system for motion pictures that will be used for generations to come. This system changed the film industry for the better, eliminating the fuss and maximizing efficiency. Defined by Merriam-Webster 1: "a series of still pictures displayed on a screen in rapid succession to produce the optical effect of continuous video." This is the standard definition, but as I alluded to, it is not a one-size-fits-all description. The term Motion picture often refers to the equipment used and the process by which a film is put together. For Industry professionals, equipment ranges from editing software to the cameras they use to capture the scenes.

 

While there are no known negatives to using the motion picture format, there are some questions about its meaning in today's world. Taking into account that many films are shot on digital now, it's hard to avoid the question of whether the true meaning of motion pictures has been lost. Back in the day, directors used legitimate film cameras with film stock. Now, I feel like there's very little authenticity being pushed onto the big screen. Although there may be arguments, there is absolutely no doubt that Louis Le Prince left a legacy that many could never dream of achieving. 

Lastly, check out some of the recent films that have hit the box office. Do they look clean and digital, or nostalgic and imperfect? Sometimes imperfections can give the film a subtly characteristic feel. Even if films are headed in a corporate lane, they should remain true to their originality. Be like Louis Le Prince, be a pioneer, unafraid of the backlash. Without risk takers, we will go nowhere. So, take the risk and be the next great figure, and cement your legacy in history.