What is the first after movie? This question may seem simple, but it holds a significant place in the history of cinema. After movies, also known as post-movie or intermission films, have been a staple in the film industry for decades. They serve as a brief interlude between the main feature and the audience, providing a moment of relaxation and anticipation for the next act. In this article, we will explore the origins and evolution of after movies, as well as their impact on the filmgoing experience.
The concept of after movies dates back to the early 20th century, when film screenings were often lengthy and divided into multiple segments. During this time, filmgoers would enjoy a series of short films before the main feature, which were often educational or entertaining in nature. These short films were known as “short subjects” or “intermission films,” and they played a crucial role in the overall experience of attending the cinema.
One of the earliest examples of an after movie can be traced back to the 1910s, when nickelodeons became popular. These small, coin-operated theaters would often show a short film before the main feature, providing a taste of the cinematic experience. As the years went by, the format of after movies evolved, with theaters incorporating more sophisticated and varied content.
In the 1920s and 1930s, after movies began to feature live performances, such as vaudeville acts, which added an extra layer of entertainment to the filmgoing experience. During this era, the term “intermission film” became more widely used, as these short films were shown during the intermission of longer feature films.
The golden age of after movies occurred in the 1940s and 1950s, when studios produced a wide array of short subjects, including animated films, documentaries, and comedy sketches. These films were often created specifically for the after-movie slot and became a beloved part of the cinema experience. Some of the most famous after movies from this era include Disney’s “Mickey Mouse” cartoons and the classic comedy shorts by Warner Bros.
As the 1960s rolled in, the format of after movies began to change once again. With the rise of television, the popularity of after movies started to decline. Many theaters began to show longer features, eliminating the need for intermissions. However, some theaters continued to show after movies, adapting to the changing landscape of the film industry.
Today, after movies are still a part of the cinema experience, although they are less common than in the past. Many theaters have replaced them with longer feature films or have eliminated the intermission altogether. However, some theaters, particularly those catering to children and families, still show after movies to provide a brief break and to entertain the audience during the intermission.
In conclusion, the first after movie was a short film shown before the main feature, serving as a brief interlude for filmgoers. Over the years, after movies have evolved, adapting to the changing landscape of the film industry. While they are less common today, after movies continue to hold a special place in the history of cinema and the filmgoing experience.
