Zion: Canyon of Colour

About This Movie

Zion: Canyon of Colour, a 1934 documentary from the Traveltalk series, offers a fascinating glimpse into the natural splendor of Zion National Park. The film's pacing feels leisurely, almost meditative, allowing viewers to soak in the dramatic landscapes, particularly the striking seven-hundred foot long Arch of Zion. The human-made structures, like the Mount Carmel Highway and Tunnel, are highlighted not just for their engineering but for how they harmonize with the breathtaking scenery. There's a certain charm in the film's simplicity and the way it captures the park's raw beauty without the bells and whistles of modern cinematography. The visuals evoke a sense of wonder, making it distinct for collectors interested in early travelogues and the evolution of documentary filmmaking.

Zion: Canyon of Colour is relatively scarce in the collector's market, primarily because many early travel shorts from this era have been lost or deteriorated. It's fascinating to see how the film captures both the natural and human-made marvels of the park, setting a unique tone that isn't often replicated in later documentaries. As a piece from the Traveltalk series, it holds interest for those who appreciate the historical context of travel films, particularly in the early 20th century.