British Kinematography (1952)

BRITISH KINEMATOCRAPHY VOLUME 20, No. I JANUARY, 1952 CONTENTS The Latest Developments in Animated Film Surround Brightness: Key Factor in Viewing Projected Pictures Influence of Colour of Surround on Hue and Saturation JOHN HALAS S. K. GUTH D. L. MACADAM Page 4 8 16 FILM PRODUCTION DIVISION IT is a significant fact that, though film production in this country is at present at a low ebb, the Film Production Division of this Society has an ever increasing membership, realising the importance ledge of every aspect making films. Until 1927, when the Studio technicians are of acquiring more knowof the complexities of President of the Board of Trade, Sir Philip Cunliffe Lister (now Lord Swinton), Introduced the Cinematograph Films Act (1927), film making was in the hands of very few people. The Films Act provided an enormous impetus to film production in this country and led to the construction of the modern studio. There was an immediate increase in the number of British films made as well as in the technicians to make them. With few exceptions, "footage" came before quality. The general attitude of technicians was non-progressive so far as concerned the exchange of technical information. The B.K.S. not having been formed. Charlatans abounded in the ranks of promotors, producers, directors and — unfortunately — technicians. The problems of kinematography, i.e. lighting, processing, and later, sound recording, were approached unscientifically. The formation of the British Kinematograph Society in 1931 received little attention at first, though reference to the early issues of the Society's Journal reveals a high standard of lecture, demonstration and discussion. Divisions of the Society were formed, and under the Chairmanship of the Past President, Mr. A. W. Watkins, the Film Production Division made a flying start. The principle aim of the Division was to keep members au fait with new techniques and equipment and to promote confidence in the exchange of ideas. A stage has been reached when some of the educational courses are being repeated, so great has been the demand for enrolment. The Film Production Division confidently ciaims to piay an important part in the achievement of the technical excellence of modern British films. No progressive technician can afford not to be a member. Baynham Honri, F.B.K.S., A.R.P.S., Chairman, Film Production Division. BRITISH KINEMATOGRAPHY, the Journal of the British Kinematograph Society, is published monthly, ^^postage), annual subscription £2 17s. 6d. including postage. ^f Editorial and Advertising Offices : 117 Piccadilly, London, W.I. Grosvenor 4396-7. 75T Publication in this Journal does not necessarily imply that the Council endorses the views of authors due acknowledgment being made to BRITISH KINEMATOGRAPHY and the author. CO 10 Price 5s. per issue (5s. 2d. including Reprinting is permitted, subject to PROPERTY OF USAF 68ZZ0