When was the first film festival inaugurated?
The first FILM FESTIVAL annual was inaugurated in Venice in an attempt to revive the tourist trade, which had been badly hit by the Depression. It was held at the Hotel Excelsior in association with the International Art Exhibition, 6-21 August 1932. The nations represented were the USA, Great Britain, France, Germany, Italy and Soviet Russia.
There were no awards, but judging took place by popular vote. The following won the most acclaim in response to the questions posed
Which actress did you like the best ? —Helen Hayes.
Which actor did you like the best ? —Fredric March.
Which director seemed the most convincing ? —Nicolai Ekk (Road to Life).
Which film was the most entertaining ? — A Nous la Liberte.
Which film moved you most ? —The Sin of Madelon Claudet.
Which film had the most original sense of fantasy ? —Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde.
The International Festival of Documentary Films, Edinburgh was opened by the Lord Provost at the Playhouse Cinema on 31 August 1946.
