Pioneers: First Women Filmmakers
Directed by Alice Guy-Blaché, Lois Weber, Helen Holmes, Mabel Normand, Grace Cunard, Dorothy Davenport Reid
In the Wild West days of early filmmaking—before Hollywood hardened into an assembly-line behemoth and boys’ club—talented women worked regularly as writers, producers, and directors, instrumental in shaping the very language of cinema as we know it. Nevertheless, figures like Alice Guy Blaché and Lois Weber are known today primarily by aficionados, and artists like Nell Shipman, Grace Cunard, and Marion E. Wong remain woefully obscure. Bringing together dozens of essential new restorations, this series spotlights the daring, innovative, and trailblazing work of the first female filmmakers and restores their centrality to the creation of cinema itself. – BAMCinematek
Produced in collaboration with the Library of Congress.
Reviews More Reviews
"A corrective to our collective amnesia. A thrilling look at the variety of films made by women, most before they won the right to vote."
"Provides a rare opportunity to see some of the greatest films helmed by early Hollywood’s intrepid women... filling in the blanks of the past and reclaiming the medium’s forgotten stories."
"One of this year’s most essential archival box sets."
"This is nirvana for keen purchasers ready to immerse themselves in a blossoming new expression started over 100 years ago. To those even remotely interested - Kino's 6 Blu-ray package is strongly recommended!"
"...an essential piece of film history, and engaging viewing besides."
"Film fans, rejoice! The true history of the motion picture industry just got a bit more complete."
"This wonderful box set would make a perfect gift for anyone interested in women in film or in film history."
"...one of the most important disc sets of 2018, and it's the perfect gift for the serious cinephile."
Press & Exhibitors
Below please find additional information and promotional materials for this film. Use the buttons on the left to request to book this film for theatrical or educational/community screenings.
For all press requests, please contact us at press@kinolorber.com.