International Review of Educational Cinematography (Jan-Dec 1934)

THE FILM IN INTERNATIONAL LIFE 393 is better to note the continual progress made, which we can easily observe in a large number of cinematograph productions. But this problem involves a whole series of problems interesting the highest forms of intellectual activity : collaboration with composers, creators, dramatic authors. The problem of theatrical works that are suitable for the screen must be studied, as well as that of original works for the screen. In addition to these strictly intellectual problems, there are others of a political, financial and economic order that cannot be ignored ; nor can we ignore the question of the film intended for a civilization different from that of the country of origin . Although the film may be, theoretically, a powerful means of mutual understanding and appreciation, it can also be the cause of misunderstanding and discord. This happens in the case of historical and other types of film made in one country but dealing with another. Special consideration should be given to films likely to give an understanding of the solidarity that should unite all peoples and their mutual interest in peace and reciprocal collaboration. After this comes the question of the facilities to be granted for the circulation of films, and especially for the circulation of the best productions, those, that is to say, of the greatest moral and intellectual value. A preliminary inquiry could be made on all these points by the International Institute of Intellectual Co-operation. There should be no attempt to collect a complete documentation by extending the inquiry over the widest possible field, because in this case the system of widely distributed questionnaires could not be adopted, the aim being quality rather than quantity in the answers. The best way, therefore, would be to appeal first to those in each country who are most qualified to give an opinion : to scene directors, authors, composers, writers. When thus definitely consulted on the various aspects of the problem, they would be in a position to offer a series of suggestions on which the efforts of the international organization for this sector could be based, thus eliminating all fruitless and useless experiments. Conclusion. This note does not claim to pass in review all the studies, researches and projects connected with the cinema in international life, nor to deal with all the services which the film can render to the documentary knowledge of peoples and civilizations. It is concerned mainly with the aid which the cinema may give to the spiritual drawing together of the nations, and with demonstrating the fact that the International Institute of Intellectual Co-operation is ready, by means of its organization systems, to make of the cinema an efficacious auxiliary of peace through the greater mutual knowledge of nations. The International Institute of Intellectual Co-operation proposes to put its labours at the service of thought, and to make thought co-operate with the reconstructive work which the League of Nations has undertaken in connection with international relations. There are doubtless other fields in which this construction of relations and formation of international bonds is more manageable, especially if we wish to limit ourselves to existing institutions. But, with the cinema we can face the artistic creation of the international film in the hope that it may become universal. It is therefore logical to ask ourselves how, by this marvellous means which has already an important educational and informative function, we can deal with the living forces of comprehension and understanding. The problem is, first of all, to come to an agreement as to the rules of action, which should be as simple and adaptable as possible, and as to the best way of applying them.