News reel

The nostalgia! A news reel is a type of film or video that was used to present news and current events to the public, typically in a concise and informative manner. News reels were a staple of movie theaters and television broadcasts from the early 20th century to the mid-20th century.

Here's a brief history:

• Early days: News reels originated in the late 1800s, with the first newsreel, "Le Journal," being produced in France in 1908. The concept quickly spread to other countries, including the United States, where news reels became a popular feature in movie theaters.
• Silent era: During the silent film era (1890s-1920s), news reels were often accompanied by live narration or music. They typically featured short, edited segments of news footage, often with captions or titles to provide context.
• Sound era: With the advent of sound in films (1920s-1930s), news reels began to include voiceovers, music, and sound effects to enhance the viewing experience.
• Television era: News reels transitioned to television in the 1940s and 1950s, with many newsreel companies adapting their formats to fit the new medium. TV newsreels often featured longer segments and more in-depth reporting.
• Decline: The rise of television news programs and 24-hour news cycles in the 1960s and 1970s led to a decline in the popularity of news reels. Many newsreel companies went out of business, and the format became less common.

Some notable newsreel companies include:

• Pathé News (founded in 1896)
• Gaumont News (founded in 1895)
• British Pathé (founded in 1901)
• Universal Newsreel (founded in 1929)
• Movietone News (founded in 1929)

News reels played an important role in shaping public opinion and providing a window into historical events. Many news reels have been preserved and are now available online, offering a fascinating glimpse into the past.