Icon Person: Alice Guy

Alice Guy

First this will make you pissed. Then you will be proud.

Alice Guy was conveniently wiped from the history books. She was the first woman director (in 1896, La Fée aux Choux) and she was also one of the first to sync pictures with sound. “Guy also pioneered visual storytelling techniques such as split-screen, double exposure and the dramatic close-up, and even helped shape film acting technique by asking her performers to give a more naturalistic delivery, reminding them to “be natural” via a large sign hanging in her studio.” (excerpt from linked article below)

What’s more is that she ran her own production studio, The Solax Company!

Before starting her own studio, she worked for Léon Gaumont’s studio, Gaumont Film Company, writing, directing and producing hundreds of films. However, she was never included in any publications of the history of this company even though she specifically asked Mr. Gaumont to include her.

She’s finally receiving her due credit, 46 years after her death. Thank you for your dedication and contributions to the art of cinema, Alice!

Forgotten Women of Film History: Alice Guy.