Italian Futurism

Italian futurist cinema was the oldest movement of European avant-garde cinema. Italian futurism, an artistic and social movement, impacted the Italian film industry from 1916 to 1919. It influenced Russian Futurist cinema and German Expressionist cinema.

Italian Futurism in cinema was characterized by a celebration of speed, dynamism, and technology, aiming to break from traditional cinematic forms and embrace a new, modern visual language. Futurist films experimented with techniques like rapid editing, dynamic camera angles, and innovative visual effects to convey the energy of the modern world. They also incorporated themes of industrialization, urban landscapes, and the machine age, often using modern machinery and industrial elements in their narratives.

While Futurism in cinema was influential, very few films from that era have survived completely. One notable example is "Thaïs" (1916) by Anton Giulio Bragaglia.

Emphasis on Movement and Speed: Futurism in cinema was heavily focused on capturing the feeling of movement and speed, often through rapid editing, dynamic camera angles, and fast-paced sequences. This was a direct reflection of the movement's core belief in celebrating the dynamism of modern life and the "Machine Age".

Experimental Techniques: Filmmakers experimented with techniques like photodynamism (capturing movement through multiple exposures) and superimposition, aiming to create a visual language that was distinct from traditional cinema. They also embraced abstract and non-narrative structures, challenging conventional storytelling.

Modern Technology and Themes: Futurist films integrated modern technology and industrial themes, showcasing trains, cars, airplanes, and the urban environment. This wasn't just thematic, but also involved using new cinematic technologies to enhance the visual impact.

Breaking with Tradition: Futurism in cinema sought to break away from the static compositions and traditional narratives of early cinema, aiming to create a more immersive and visceral experience for the audience. They aimed to liberate Italian cinema from the constraints of the past.

Filippo Tommaso Marinetti's Influence: Marinetti, the founder of the Futurist movement, was a key figure in promoting Futurist ideas in cinema. His writings and manifestos emphasized the importance of speed, violence, and the machine in art and cinema.

Notable Filmmakers:

Anton Giulio Bragaglia

-Thaïs (1917)

Arnaldo Ginna

- Vita Futurista (1916) – Lost film