The Kiss (1896)
In the National Film Registry
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17s
The Kiss, a silent film made in 1896, shocked audiences with the first cinematic kiss.
Produced by Thomas Edison's company and directed by William Heise, The Kiss (1896) is one of the earliest films ever exhibited commercially. Clocking in at just 18 seconds, The Kiss depicts a scene from the stage play "The Widow Jones," featuring actors May Irwin and John Rice.
Though simple by today's standards, The Kiss was considered risqué at the time. Public displays of affection were more restricted, and the film's close-up on a kiss sparked debate and controversy. This controversy, however, contributed to its popularity. The Kiss became a cultural touchstone, a testament to the then-novelty of moving pictures and their potential to capture and even challenge societal norms.
The Kiss also played a role in the development of film grammar. The close-up, while not entirely new, was a technique still being explored. The film's focus on the kiss, rather than a full-body shot, demonstrated the power of framing to draw attention to specific elements within a scene. This technique would become a cornerstone of filmmaking.
The Kiss stands as a reminder of cinema's early days, a time of experimentation and innovation. While not technically complex by modern standards, its impact on film history and popular culture remains undeniable.
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