The popularity of cinema and cinema-going in Scotland was exceptional. Focusing on the social experience of cinema and cinema-going, this edited collection provides a detailed context for the history of early cinema in Scotland, from its inception in 1896 until the arrival of sound in the early 1930s. Tracing the movement from travelling exhibitions and shows in varied venues to the establishment of purpose-built cinemas in major cities and small towns across the country, the book examines attempts to establish a sustainable feature film production sector, and the significance of an imaginary version of Scotland in international cinema.

With case studies of key productions like Rob Roy (1911), early cinema in small towns like Bo'ness, Lerwick, Campbeltown and Oban, and experiments in the municipal provision of cinema as well as of the employment patterns in Scottish cinemas, this volume also includes the most complete account of Scottish-themed films produced in Scotland, England, Europe and the USA from 1896 to 1927.