Page 16 - pm_1953-8

Further Observations

by THE (jftlTJ(j ·

Since my offer in the April/May issue of this journal, quite a number of films
have been received for cine analysis, the average length-300 ft., the average
subject-the family. A close second in subject matter, Coronation Day. It
would be unethical and a breach of cor.~fidence to describe these films in detail,
since there is always the possibility they may eventually be entered for a cine
award. My comments, therefore, will be confined to generalisations.
The Coronation films were generally disappointing, due, I believe to the
magnificence of the occasion which, unfortunately, overawed the lone camera
operator-perhaps the noise, cheerings, bands, etc., had a derogatory effect.
The main faults lay in very poor camera-work, exposure, camera unsteadiness
and also in unsatisfactory positioning on the route. Some ot the Coronation
festivities in provincial towns were much better, but here the faults were
attempting to photograph everything that took place, instead of pre-planning
shots on paper before the great day. A civic procession is most definitely
difficult to record with a cine camera, but as here stated before it is superb
practice-once the ceremonies begin one must take and the result is success or
failure.
The family documentaries are another story-this type of production is giving
me very great pleasure, there was a very pleasant new technique, both fresh and
original, not only in the subject, but in its treatment. The family holiday film in
particular abounds with new ideas, and many amateurs were not slow to adopt
them. The old stereo-typed holiday cine hotch-potch is becoming superseded
by the small, complete, humourous documentary that exhales the personality of
its amateur director. The complete domination by the person making the film
is essential, and I believe quite frankly that this factor alone, is responsible for
the definite uplift in family film standards. One family film I screened had
been compiled and photographed by two young men, and the result bore all
the freshness of a summer breeze. A holiday film with a difference-a holiday
film that gives pleasure not only to the family but to any beholder-that rnust
be the aim and it can be achieved quite simply if you can attain the cine com-
plex and understand your film medium.
This may seem far removed from the ordinary cine enthusiast and his holiday
film, but if it is realised that each and every film has the power of propaganda
on the socialogical plane, the opportunities afforded by our family films are
limitless. The children, in our future audiences, can be gently reminded of the
correct kerb drill by ensuring that Mother and children are shown crossing the
front-at some seaside resort-correctly and not hurling themselves precariously
in front o·f some passing vehicle. Tidiness after picnicing can also be emphasised
by taking greater care over these small points during the actual filming. Every
action made on the screen is sub-consciously noted by the audience and there-
fore a family film can have a profound influence on our social behaviour.
Family films are being made, fhough not universally, that will gain laurels in
many future film awards. Use your cine cameras then to give pleasure and
value to others and provide a deep and lasting satisfaction to yourself.

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Cricklewood. N .W .2.