Description

Hungarian cinema traces back to 1896 when Arnold Sziklai and Zsigmond opened the first Hungarian movie theater, Ikonográf, screening Lumière films. Despite initial lackluster interest, film screenings gained popularity in cafes, and by 1911, Budapest boasted 100 cinemas. The inaugural Hungarian film, "A Táncz" (The Dance), was a cinematic interpretation of a performance at Urania Scientific Theater, created by Gyula Pekár in 1901, marking the birth of Hungarian cinema.

During the early 1900s, 270 cinemas operated, including notable venues like the Royal Apollo. Film distribution began, led by Mór Ungerleider's Projectograph company, which transitioned into film production, offering documentaries and newsreels. Ungerleider also founded "Mozgófénykép Híradó," featuring pioneering film-theoretical articles. During the Hungarian Soviet Republic, film production was briefly nationalized, resulting in 31 films, notably Sándor Pallós's "Money." Sound films emerged, impacting the industry, prompting government incentives to revive Hungarian cinema. Subsequent eras saw state-controlled film production until its cessation in 1989.

Engraver: Mihály Fritz