The Motion Picture Director (Sep 1925 - Feb 1926)

1925 MOTION MI 1 WI ©irector 17 Putting the Movies on the Air RADIO has been frequently decried by theatrical wise-acres as being not only competitive to motion pictures but as even threatening the very existence of the motion picture theatre, but such has not been the experience of Warner Bros., who, as owners and operators of KFWB, the huge broadcasting station which dominates the air in Hollywood, occupy the unique position of being the only motion picture firm of national magnitude functioning in the radio world. In adopting the radio Warner Bros, have put into operation that age-old principle of converting what seems at first glance to be a destructive force, into an ally contributing its share toward the final results to be achieved. In this somewhat the same principle as that which has actuated the development of radio broadcasting as an adjunct to newspaper publishing has been followed. As an advertising medium the radio presented threatening aspects to the established advertising mediums of the community as represented by the newspapers until a certain domination of the air was acquired by the newspapers themselves. Similarly in the cinematic world. While the radio might be conceived as possessing features detrimental to theatrical entertainment Warner Bros, have demonstrated through KFWB that it possesses distinctively constructive features which have tended to increase the popularity of the silent drama. For, just as the radio has had the effect of “vocalizing” newspaper advertising, so has KFWB served to create for Warner Bros, screen activities an interest heightened by the addition of an auditory appeal to the already existent optical features of screen attraction. This has been particularly demonstrated in the matter of creating among screen and radio fans, a more intimate contact with the personalities of the silent drama. In one sense, the radio as utilized by Warner Bros., has supplied the missing link between stage and screen through broadcasting the voices of the stars appearing in the films. That these voices come to fans on the air and are wholly detached from visible expression of the star’s personality but adds interest and novelty to the experience. Imagination readily supplies a mental picture of the star whose voice is heard, a picture that is frequently a composite of several of the roles which that star has played on the screen and which have particularly appealed to the auditor. THUS the radio, in addition to its advertising features, has proved a distinct contribution to the screen interests of Warner Bros. Studio. And yet, when Warner Bros, decided to install their broadcasting station immediate disaster was predicted and it was pronounced foolish opposition to their pictorial interests. So completely has its value been proven that plans are in consideration for establishing KFWB in the new theatre which Warner Bros, are to erect in the immediate future at Hollywood Boulevard and Wilcox avenue. Not only that but it is planned further to develope its use in connection with Warner Bros, screen studios and under the supervision of Frank Murphy, electrical engineer for the studio, six motor trucks have been designed and equipped with loud speakers, receiving sets, microphones and telephone attachments. Several of these trucks are now in operation on location and are proving their worth in the direction of Warner Bros. Screen Classics. Particularly have they proved of value in directing mob scenes and in making clearly audible instructions to hundreds of people scattered all over the set.