The Norman Studios Presents the Super Feature Photoplay The Flying Ace Sensation of the Year
Arlington, Florida: Norman Studios, 1926. Folio, unbound press book made of one sheet folded horizontally to make four leaves. Cover printed in orange and blue on pale cream paper, other leaves printed in blue. Size when folded is 35.5 cm x 56 cm. Illustrated with numerous photographs. A faint horizontal fold where the press book has been folded in half, a very small amount of spotting on the fore-edge of the back page; otherwise a near-fine print. First edition.
An excellent example of advertising for America's early film industry. Press books such as these were sent out to theatres as encouragement to feature the film presented. This press book promotes The Flying Ace, made by Norman Studios with an all-African American cast. Dubbed "the greatest airplane mystery ever produced", this film follows the adventures of Captain William Stokes, World War hero (World War One at that time), flying ace and detective, as he takes on the most baffling case of his career.
Included in the four-leaf booklet is a reproduction of the window card for theatres to use, information on the film and actors, and suggestions from Norman Studios on how best to advertise the film. Aside from its interest as a piece of early cinema history, this particular poster is also a record of the segregation of white and black actors and film makers, with black actors and audiences largely being ignored by mainstream cinema. Films such as The Flying Ace allowed African Americans to see themselves as they hoped to be portrayed, rather than the way white cinema portrayed them.
This print comes with a certificate of authentication. Item #5082
Price (AUD): $700.00