'The modern Elixir of Life': Kinemacolor, royalty and the Delhi Durbar

Kinemacolor, the first successful natural colour motion picture system, had a pronounced social effect as well as a marked importance for the film industry during the years 1908–1914. Kinemacolor's theatrical-style presentation, the advanced ticket prices it attracted, the 'high class' audiences that it drew, its licensing schemes, and its innovative technology, were unique in the fledgling film industry. It became particularly associated with British royalty and the display of colourful pageantry. Kinemacolor's invention coincided with a succession of spectacular royal events, including the coronation of King George V, the investiture of the Prince of Wales, and especially the Delhi Durbar, held to mark the enthronement of the new King-Emperor of India. The resulting Kinemacolor spectacular, With Our King and Queen Through India, became one of the most memorable films of the era. The essay discusses the earlier Kinemacolor royal films and analyzes the production and exhibition of the Durbar film, its reception, and its lasting resonance.