Sheila Skaff's 'The Law of the Looking Glass' examines early Polish cinema from 1896 to 1939
In her 2008 book, 'The Law of the Looking Glass: Cinema in Poland, 1896–1939,' published by Ohio University Press, Sheila Skaff explores the history of Polish cinema from its inception through the interwar years. This 245-page study investigates the development of film as both an industry and a means of shaping national identity, utilizing Karol Irzykowski's theory of the reflective medium. It discusses early projections, silent films from the 1920s, and the shift to sound in the 1930s, while considering various political, social, and economic influences, including censorship and the effects of Hitler's ascent. Although it is commended for its archival research, some critiques highlight its limited film analysis and cultural context, especially concerning films like 'Nie damy ziemi, skąd nasz ród' and 'Cud nad Wisłą.'
Key facts
- Sheila Skaff authored 'The Law of the Looking Glass: Cinema in Poland, 1896–1939' in 2008
- The 245-page book was published by Ohio University Press in Athens, OH
- The title references critic Karol Irzykowski's theory of cinema as a reflective medium
- The study covers Polish cinema from 1896 to 1939, including silent films and transition to sound
- Skaff examines political, social, and economic factors shaping early Polish cinema
- The book discusses Jewish participation in Polish cultural life before World War II
- Criticisms include sketchy film analysis and insufficient contextualization for non-Polish readers
- The work is based on extensive archival research including unpublished material
Entities
Artists
- Sheila Skaff
- Karol Irzykowski
- Józef Piłsudski
Institutions
- Ohio University Press
- Filmowa Agencja Wydawnicza
- National Democracy party
Locations
- Poland
- Warsaw
- Athens, OH
- United States