Lumière & Company
40 international directors were asked to make a short film using the original Cinematographe invented by the Lumière Brothers, working under conditions similar to those of 1895. There were three rules: (1) The film could be no longer than 52 seconds, (2) no synchronized sound was permitted, and (3) no more than three takes.
Insights
Plot Summary
In 1995, to commemorate the centenary of cinema, forty-one filmmakers from around the world were invited to make a short film using the Lumière brothers' original cinematograph camera and techniques. Each director was given exactly 35 seconds of film and was required to adhere to the Lumière aesthetic, meaning no more than three takes and no editing. The resulting collection offers a diverse and fascinating snapshot of filmmaking styles and perspectives at the end of the 20th century.
Critical Reception
Lumière & Company was generally well-received by critics for its innovative concept and the diverse range of artistic visions it presented. Reviewers appreciated the challenge posed to the filmmakers and the resulting creative interpretations. The film is seen as a unique tribute to the origins of cinema, offering both historical context and contemporary artistic expression.
What Reviewers Say
- A fascinating experiment in filmmaking.
- A diverse collection of short films offering a unique historical perspective.
- Showcases the ingenuity of filmmakers working within strict constraints.
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Awards & Accolades
Nominated for the Golden Bear at the 1996 Berlin International Film Festival.
Fun Fact
The film was made to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the first public film screening by the Lumière brothers in 1895.
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