The Magician And The Cinema.

ERIK BARNOUW

Publication: New York: Oxford University Press, 1981,

First edition. 8vo. Fine in fine dust jacket. Many people are unaware of the extensive role played by magicians in the evolution of cinema..... as inventors, exhibitors, and producers. They created "trick film" which laid the foundations for the special effects of modern cinema today. With rare photographs and characteristically incisive text, the author shows that throughout the nineteenth century, magicians had astonished audiences with optical illusions based on secret use of magic lanterns. A number of mystery and thrillers are discussed. The notes and bibliography are also of interest.