Research


Scope and Content Note

These files contain applications for permits to exhibit motion pictures in New York State. Many of the files apparently relate to newsreels, educational and training films, and entertainment films receiving permits rather than licenses from the Division. Some foreign entertainment films documented in the series were classified by the Division as "educational in character in that [their] purpose is to acquaint the public with the various trends in motion picture production throughout the world."

The files consist of applications from film distributors to the Motion Picture Commission (later the Motion Picture Division) requesting permits to screen movies. The files also include copies of permits granted by the division to the applicants. The application forms provide title of film, number of reels, total film footage, and name of producer and/or film distributor.

Of particular interest is a subgroup of files labeled "films determined to be newsreels." These films were in fact documentaries covering a variety of topics such as Communist Party activities in France, the Spanish Civil War, the Hitler Youth movement, and the Japanese invasion of China. Files include samples of dialogue and reviews.