Méliès: From Illusion Theater to Early Cinema

This conference explores the life and work of Georges Méliès, a pioneer and magician of cinema. Born in Paris in 1861, Méliès directed the famous Robert-Houdin illusion theater for 35 years. After attending the Lumière brothers' film screening in 1895, he adopted the cinematograph to create the first special effects, calling his trick films "fantastic." His 1902 film *A Trip to the Moon* became the world's first blockbuster, inspiring audiences globally.

The event features speakers Pascal FRIALT, president of the Méliès cinematheque, and Anne-Marie QUÉVRAIN, Méliès' great-granddaughter. The conference will be followed by a 35-minute projection of Méliès' films. Attendees can expect an engaging evening delving into the history of early cinema and the magic of Méliès' groundbreaking techniques.