This comprehensive history of cinema from its origins to the present-day treats the film medium as a global phenomenon with dynamic relationships among nations and cultures in all phases of its history. The text thoroughly covers the technological, aesthetic, and industrial history of films, but also emphasizes the mediums' interconnections with economic, social, and political movements and events. Relating the medium dynamically to other arts, society, economics, politics and culture, this volume shows how the history of film was shaped by wars, depression, regimes, and events.