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Films made to entertain children

01 November 2011

By EAFA

From the 1930s, the film industry responded to concern about children’s reaction to the confusing experience of watching adult cinema. Research studies analysed the types of film which children would most enjoy, and the best way to convey a positive moral message. Films were produced specially for children’s cinema shows and entertainments which combined interest and adventure, with clear guidance on how to behave. Several films in this selection were made in the East of England specifically for the local character of buildings, landscape, and way of life.

highlights

  • 1953 Cat no. 1062

    The Tortoise And The Hare

    1953, Beckenham (Kent)

    Road safety films were shown by schools and local councils, and films for different age groups found various ways to convey danger without showing accidents. This musical film for primary school children shows kerb drill, with a surprise ending.

    Cat no. 1062

    0:03:12

    Black and White, sound

  • 1951 Cat no. 213709

    The Case Of The Missing Scene

    1951, Norfolk (County)

    Film makers looking for the elusive Norfolk bittern capture evidence of poachers on the Norfolk Broads. An early film by distinguished director Don Chaffey.

    Cat no. 213709

    0:45:32

    Black and White, sound

  • 1953 Cat no. 650

    Letter From East Anglia

    1953, Salhouse (Norfolk)

    A day in the life of a Salhouse family living on the Norfolk Broads. The children go to school, then home for Norfolk stew and dumplings, followed by play adventure on a boat. One of series of films intended to show city children scenes of life in the countryside.

    Cat no. 650

    0:10:48

    Black and White, sound

  • 1955 Cat no. 2396

    Secrets Of The Forest

    1955, Rendlesham (Suffolk)

    The Sutton Hoo treasure inspired this story of children discovering a Viking ship burial, and uncovering a burglars’ hiding place.

    Cat no. 2396

    0:58:23

    Black and White, sound

  • 1955 Cat no. 558

    Our Magazine: 15

    1955, Essex (County)

    One of series of films in magazine format showing different ways children spend their time at school and at home, and their various hobbies and interests.

    Cat no. 558

    0:10:16

    Black and White, sound

  • 1963 Cat no. 775

    The Flood

    1963, Fens (Cambridgeshire)

    The 1947 floods in the Wisbech area of the Fens provides the background for this 1963 drama about children showing initiative and moral fibre when marooned on the family farm and threatened by leather-clad teenagers.

    Cat no. 775

    0:42:51

    Black and White, sound