Free cinema

Six short film documentaries were released in the 1950’s under the title of free cinema, a movement which was initially put together when founders Anderson and his friends Karel Reisz, Tony Richardson and Lorenza Mazzett attempted and failed to broadcast there films into the mainstream and decided to release there work in an alternative exhibition, a showcase at the t national film theatre. The documentaries were hugely popular with each showcase selling out and with a considerable amount of media attention, this proved that Anderson’s initial publicity stunt had paid off and resulted with an additional 5 films being released over the course of three years.

The movement titled ‘free cinema’ was described by the creator Anderson as “a reference to the films having been made free from the pressures of the box-office or the demands of propaganda”. I believe that Andersons movement was a brave step taken that allows short film to have the exhibition and distribution it has today, the step broadcasted the message that directing film should not be given to just those willing to follow the industries demands or follow the steps to assure box office figures, it should be a chance for all aspiring directors to showcase the work they are capable of, it is not fair that a piece of film doesn’t get the exhibition and recognition it deserves due to it not be allowed to showcase at industry owned cinemas.