The linotype is a 19th
century machine developed by Ottmar
Mergenthaler. It’s a type casting machine that was popular in 1884 until it
became obsolete in the 1970s. The invention of the linotype revolutionized
printing in such a way that it was called by Thomas Edison as the “Eight Wonder
of the World”. It is this machine that inspired the Linotype: The Film.
The film is a documentary
about the linotype machine, but it doesn’t focus entirely on the equipment but
rather on the stories of the people connected to the machine. It’s a brainchild
of three young filmmakers Doug Wilson, Brandon Goodwin and Jess Heugel. Their goal for the film is
not to reminiscence the historical machine, but rather to disclose stories
behind machinists. Among the questions the film seeks to answer as mentioned in
their official website are: What place does the Linotype have in the age of new
technology? Should the machine be shoved into a museum and left to rust? Why
should anyone care about typography or the technology of communication?
Wilson, who acts as
director and producer of the film, said to Miami
News Times the movie is “not just a dry, boring history film. There isn't
even a narrator. It's more about the crazy old people who worked with these
crazy old machines."
Production of the film
started in August 2010 and the world premiere was held in New York last
February 3, 2012 with subsequent screenings in the East and West Coast. For
screening schedule, visit this site.
We can really see how the traditional ways have been slowly replaced by the new technologies. And how they are now deemed of only historical significance. Anyway, I haven't actually watched the film but it seems to be a really interesting one.
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