Has the Film Already Started?

About This Movie

So, 'Has the Film Already Started?' is this intriguing little gem from 1951 that plays with audience expectations in a rather unique way. It starts with an hour of Griffith's 'Intolerance' projected on a pink screen, setting a surreal tone before the actual film begins, which is where the real magic happens. The pacing is deliberately slow, almost meditative, challenging viewers to reflect on their eagerness for the main event. The whole experience feels like a strange blend of anticipation and fantasy, with practical effects that enhance that dreamlike atmosphere. It's distinctive because it’s not just a film, but an entire event designed to engage the audience in a way that few films dare to do.

This film has a curious place in the collector's world, often discussed for its unconventional format and the way it plays with time and audience engagement. There are few print editions available, which adds to its scarcity; collectors often covet the rare screenings that still occasionally occur. Its combination of fantasy elements and audience interaction makes it a unique entry in the cinematic landscape of the early '50s.