This Is Cinerama (1952) Timeline Explained – Every Event in Order

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1. 1

   Opening lecture and transition to color Cinerama

   Lowell Thomas presents a black-and-white, mono lecture on the evolution of film, tracing from cave paintings to color and sound. He concludes with the words 'This Is Cinerama,' and the screen expands into the full color, wide Cinerama aspect ratio. A rapid sequence of narrated vignettes then begins, launching the panoramic travelogue.

2. 2

   Atom Smasher roller coaster POV

   Viewers experience a point-of-view ride on the Atom Smasher roller coaster at Rockaways' Playland, delivering a dizzying sense of speed and motion. The sequence showcases Cinerama's depth and breadth as the cars twist and dip along the ride. This kinetic moment serves as an energetic gateway to the rest of the panorama.

   Where

   Rockaways, New York (Playland)

3. 3

   Temple dance from Aïda

   The temple dance from a La Scala production of Aïda unfolds in lush color and expansive framing. The performance is presented as part of the film's travelogue, blending opera spectacle with panoramic photography. The imagery emphasizes both choreographic grace and the scale of the staged moment.

   Where

   La Scala, Milan

4. 4

   Niagara Falls

   Niagara Falls footage showcases the natural power and majesty from multiple angles intended to convey scale and awe. The scene contrasts grand man-made spectacles with the raw force of nature, enriching the film's visual variety. It anchors the travelogue with a quintessential natural landmark.

   Where

   Niagara Falls

5. 5

   Sepia-toned church choir performance

   A sepia-toned church choir performance appears as a quiet, reverent interlude. The clip adds a contrasting musical texture to the vibrant travel images, suggesting a moment of stillness amid spectacle. This tonal shift underscores the film's breadth as both documentary and artful montage.

6. 6

   Vienna Boys' Choir

   The Vienna Boys' Choir delivers bright, airy harmonies that accompany the parade of cities and landscapes. The sequence uses choral warmth to complement sweeping visuals and architectural details. It reinforces the global cultural display at the heart of the film.

   Where

   Vienna, Austria

7. 7

   Canals of Venice

   Scenes of the canals of Venice glide by with gondolas skimming through narrow waterways and historic façades reflected in the water. The camera emphasizes water, light, and atmosphere, creating a dreamlike travelogue moment. The sequence enhances the film's sense of place and aesthetic romance.

   Where

   Venice, Italy

8. 8

   Edinburgh military tattoo

   A military tattoo in Edinburgh provides a bold display of marches, drums, and precision drill beneath an expansive sky. The sequence injects a sense of pageantry and European tradition into the mosaic of scenes. Its energy contrasts with the quieter moments that precede and follow.

   Where

   Edinburgh, Scotland

9. 9

   Bullfight in Spain

   A bullfight in Spain introduces a dramatic cultural spectacle amid the montage of travel imagery. The footage captures ceremony, danger, and ritual framed by Cinerama's immersive optics. The sequence adds regional intensity to the panorama.

   Where

   Spain

10. 10

    Triumphal scene from Aïda

    From the opera, the triumphant scene from Aïda is presented as a grand, theatrical moment in the montage. The production's scale and drama are captured in expansive color, aligning operatic spectacle with the travelogue imagery. This piece reinforces the film's celebration of cultural achievement.

    Where

    La Scala, Milan

11. 11

    Sound demonstration in stereo

    A dedicated sound demonstration showcases stereo capabilities, illustrating how Cinerama's multi-channel audio enhances the viewing experience. The moment is technical yet impressionistic, underscoring the film's experimental character. It serves as a mid-sequence pivot between culture, landscape, and performance.

12. 12

    Cypress Gardens waterskiing

    Cypress Gardens waterskiing show footage features elaborate stunts and synchronized performances on the water. The sequence conveys motion, color, and playfulness within the grand mosaic. It provides a lively contrast to the more solemn or spectacular scenes.

    Where

    Cypress Gardens

13. 13

    Closing American West landscapes from a B-25 nose

    Closing sequences present soaring views of the American West's natural landmarks, filmed from the nose of a low-flying B-25 Mitchell bomber. The immersive perspective creates a sweeping panorama of mountains, canyons, and skies. The imagery is paired with patriotic aviation-era music to heighten the sense of grandeur.

    Where

    American West

14. 14

    Mormon Tabernacle Choir finale

    Over the closing images, the Mormon Tabernacle Choir sings 'America the Beautiful,' 'Come, Come Ye Saints,' and the 'Battle Hymn of the Republic.' The musical performances unify the montage with a hopeful, aspirational cadence. The combination of grand scenery and choral anthems leaves the viewer with a sense of national wonder.

    Where

    Salt Lake City, Utah