Kinematograph year book : 1931 (1931)

12 The Kinematograph Year Book. The most hopeful development in this field is an English invention which, by an attachment to the camera, reduces the wide field — double the normal — to a picture on standard stock. Another attachment to the projector corrects this, and enables a wide picture to be thrown, although every other detail in the physical production of the fihn is entirely regular. The convenience and economy of Fulvue certainly promises well. An International Pact One step in the direction of general understanding between competitors which was bound to have far-reaching consequences was the settlement of areas arranged between the representatives of the Gernia^ and American electrical and film industries, who met in conference at Paris, in June and July. Their agreement made it possible for studios in all countries to obtain licences to produce under both German and American patents, and provided for the interchangeability of motion pictures in all countries and upon all makes of licensed apparatus of the parties. The full value of this pact can hardly be estimated yet, but it certainly means an end of the old system by which American or German producers were each barred from entry into the other's markets. The spirit behind the negotiations is indicated by a sentence in the report : " these interests seek the world-wide development of the motion picture industry." The Sunday Fight Our usual pre-Christmas thrill was furnished by a big fight on Sunday ^ opening. The London theatrical interests had long been jealous of^the big attendances enjoyed by the kinemaa on Sunday evenings and inspired an action against the L.C.C., as a result of which the latter's action in sanctioning film exhibitions was declared illegal, under the Sunday Observance Act of 1780. This is, at the moment ofjwriting, the subject of an appeal, and the owners of the kinemas affected are carrying on. The C.E.A. has come whole-heartedly to the support of the campaign for freedom, but as the Courts have given a definite ruling upon the intent of the Act it is expected that any final settlement must be in the direction of new legislation. New Theatres In theatre-building a year of unparalleled expansion has to be recorded. In every part of the country, small and large towns alike have added to their resources by erecting well-designed and equipped kinemas, and London has led the way. Something like two hundred new houses have been opened, and the people who are responsible for them have a fairly good idea of the public support they may anticipate. We have in this fact a final proof of the conquering kinema. It is important to remember that these new houses are object lessons in construction, decoration and appointments and as