Academl' 0{ Mohon Pl~tL'<'? ,~rt s and I SC'~ (:':"~ !.. :-. Y. :-.:",', ANNIVERSARY · AND AWARDS BULLETI "l-_B_- ~~~~~: _~~: ~ . ~- ?~~: __ J ACADEMY OF MOTION PICTURE ARTS & SCIENCES

EXECUTIVE OI'I'ICES AND LOUNGE: ROOSEVELT HOTEL, 7010 HOLLYWOOD BLVD. TEL. GR-2134

No. XXII HOllYWOOD, CALIF., JUNE 3, 1929 No. XXII

The Academy's activities and responsibilities are growing steadily broader and more important. Among the subjects now receiving active attention are: Merit Awards for 1929 University Cooperation Book on College Course Branch meetings on sound problems Producers' and sound engineers' program Conciliation matters Wider Knowledge of the Academy In addition to these matters there are several others requmng constant considera~ tion and action, such as relations with other organizations, memberships, Academy speakers for dinners, lunches and so on, relations with national women's clubs, requests for endorsements, standard contract rulings, personal services to members, etc. Some of these subjects are covered in detail in this Bulletin. AWARDS AND ANNIVERSAR Y BANQUET

The Second Anniversary and Awards Banquet, however, that we should get together and do things held the evening of May 16 in the Blossom Room for the good of all the branches of motion picture of the Roosevelt Hotel, was an unqualified success. production. Some of our dreams did not come true, Distinguished guests and speakers emphasized the but as we look back we find that we have not been prestige which the work of the Academy has at­ standing still. tained. More than 270 were present. After an hour "I want to explain to you to what length the of entertainment in the lounge, the formal presenta­ Academy has gone to arrive at its conclusions to tio'n of awards for the year 1928 was made at the be announced on this occasion for bestowing ~erit banquet. awards for the outstanding and distinctive achieve­ Academy President Douglas Fairbanks opened ments in pictures for the year 1928. We first asked the presentation ceremony with an announcement the entire membership of the Academy to nominate about the method of selection: candidates for the various awards of the year. It took . -"It is now two years since we gathered ·atour eight 'weeks in all to do this; over a thousand nom­ first dinner at the Biltmore Hotel and ·organized iilations were submitted. Then groups of five judges the Academy. We had · many rosy dreams at that each were selected from the five branches of the time, but like most dreams they were hazy. We felt Academy-five for the actors' branch, five for the directors' branch, and so on. Of the ten highest nom­ responsibility that we have taken on just through inees for awards in each group three were selected belonging to this profession. by the judges in the order of their excellence. These "This Academy now stands as a representative were then referred to a central board of judges who organization of the motion picture art and industry. made the final awards. In all, thirty judges were It stands as a liaison officer between the art and active in making these awards, so it is no mean honor the industry because it correlates and brings the to receive consideration under these conditions." two together. It also stands as the official point of contact for other organized groups-the universities WILLIAM C. DE MILLE and many other groups and for this reason the Academy now stands for the ideas and ideals of Mr. Fairbanks then turned the chair over to the motion picture. I was much impressed last week William C. de Mille who reviewed the develop­ when I was allowed the honor of representing you ment of the Acadamy: at the Stanford-Muybridge celebration of the fif­ tieth anniversary of the first moving picture in Palo "Two years ago the Academy was born. Most Alto. The significant thing was the University's of those present here tonight were there. A whole interest in what was going to happen in the next lot of us were dubious. The Academy had to prove fifty years and their realization that they should itself. It was an idea, an ideal that grew in the have a closer contact somewhere. The University brains of a little group of men. There was some realizes that the motion picture has entered the confusion as to an academy and the need of an field of literature and thus becomes the University's academy-what it could do, what it should do. business. Now, the Academy stands for that con­ Everybody took it with a grain of salt at first. It tact. Your Academy now really stands for some­ went on for a year-it took a year to organize thing; it is a representative body. We stand ready really-and then things began to happen. to make the contact for all bodies that want to "The seeds that had been planted- in the first make contact with the motion picture. year began to sprout in the second year and it "This is the first year the Academy has given began to function, and last year, due to many causes awards to the persons who deserve them in the and particularly to the work of a group of prob­ opinion of the Academy. As we all know, the ably fifty or seventy-five members, it has done re­ most valuable award that a worker can get is markably good work in beginning to function. One to have the acknowledged praise of his brother of the ways it functions is this: A great change workers. It means a great deal more to us than has come over the whole motion picture industry just the acclaim of the public. I don't think there since the Academy was organized. The talking pic­ is a professional man in the world who would not ture will be the motion picture from now on, or rather be praised by his fellow workers than re­ else I am so wrong that I have no right to stand ceive any acclaim the public could give him. The up here and address you. This means that the bestowal of these merit awards by the Academy motion picture has finally definitely entered the field is acknowledgment by the Academy that in its opin­ of dramatic literature. It will be an important ion each piece of work was the most outstanding part of the American dramatic literature that is or one of the most outstanding pieces of work dur­ going to be seen and heard by more people than ing the year, so to everyone I am going to call see any play in the theatre or read any printed play on tonight this is now a sort of graduation. in the United States. "Remember, these awards are given for work "We have taken on new responsibilities. It is accomplished during the year 1928. There is necessary for us to make contacts with other or­ only one award in this whole list that has any­ ganized groups representing collective thought be­ thing to do with talking pictures. I t seems strange cause the talking picture is going to be one of the when you stop and look over the field and see how most tremendous influences in our national life. many talking pictures are being distributed today . Millions of people are going to hear our language It was just a year ago that we had a debate in the spoken on the screen and it is going to be taken Academy rooms and one or two members were more or less as a standard. We have taken the re­ almost alone in predicting that within two or three sponsibility of establishing that standard and we years the silent picture would have ceased. are going to see that it will be something worth­ "It is also interesting to notice that in these while. The talking picture is going through the awards a good proportion of them have gone to world and is going to show people everywhere how persons who are not members of the Academy. the rest of the people in the world live. The talking Take Mr. Jannings, for instance, he is not a mem­ picture is going to develop a standard of speech, ber of the Academy-he is not even a citizen of pronounciation, and to a certain extent of philo­ of our country-but it did not prevent the Acad­ sophy. Such is the power of drama. The drama emy from giving him the award. Miss Gaynor has always been the mouthpiece of the people. Now is not a member of the Academy. Why ? God to how much greater extent is that going to be knows. I think she has been invited, in fact I true of talking pictures, the most broad form of know she has had an invitation. As you know, drama that the world has ever seen. This is the membership in the Academy is only by invitation. [2] People are invited to j01l1 the Academy when their award was for writing the original story, 'Under­ services to the motion picture industry have been world'. prominent enough and valuable enough to make " In the writers' group, the first award for the Academy feel that they would like to have adaptation was given to the adaptor of 'Seventh them as brother members. Heaven', Mr. Benjamin Glazer." Mr. Glazer came forward to receive his award. PRESENTATION "Honorable mention for writing the original story, 'The Last Command', was given to Mr. "The fu nction of the Academy is first to formu­ Lejos Biro, who is now in Germany. late the ideals of the Academy and of the motion " Honorable mention was given for adapting 'The picture industry. That is what these awards stand J azz Singer' to Mr. Alfred Cohn." Mr. Cohn for. They are given in several branches. There received his certificate. are some for the directors, some for the actors, some " Honorable mention was also given for adapting for writers, and some for the technicians, and 'Glorious Betsy' to Mr. Anthony Coldewey." Mr. some for the producers. And there are two or Coldewey came forward to receive his diploma. three awards for the different branches in each of "The first award for title writing for the year, these five groups. I want those who come up to taking them by and large, goes to Mr. Joseph receive these awards and all of you to know that Farnham." Mr. Farnham came forward to receive it is w ith a great deal of pleasure that the Acadamy his statuette. bes tows these first merit awards upon members of "Honorable mention for title writing goes to Mr. this profession, not merely to members of the George Marion, J r." Mr. Marion was not present. Academy. "Honorable mention for writing the titles for "We will first take the directors. The first 'Helen of Troy' was given to the boy who wrote award for direction of the dramatic picture. them, who is no longer with us, whose death oc­ 'Seventh Heaven' is made to the director, Mr. curred some months ago. His mother is present Frank Borzage." to accept the award for him. The award was Mr. Borzage came to the platform and received voted to Gerald Duffy." Mrs. Duffy came to the his statuette and certificate from Douglas Fair­ platform and received her son's certificate. ban ks, president, who officiated in handing to the "In the technician's branch of the Academy first winn ers the statuettes and certificates they had been awards for cinematography go to two men equally, awarded. Mr. de Mille then continued: the men who photographed 'Sunrise,' Charlie Rosh­ "The fi rst award for the di rection of the comedy er and Karl Struss. Charlie Rosher is in Eng­ picture, 'The T wo Arabian Knights', is made to land, so Karl is going to receive his award alone. Mr. Lewis Milestone." Mr. Milestone came to Mr. Rosher has accepted by cable from London. I the platform and received his statuette and cer­ ge t a great deal of pleasure out of reminiscing about tificate. the time I worked with both of these boys in the In bestowing the first honorable mention, the good old days. I don't know whether the guests chairman explained the difficulty of making the know it or not, but all of those beautiful pictures awards with so many different elements to be con­ of award winners which you have been admiring are sidered. " It is like asking," he said, "does this the work of Karl Struss. The thanks of the man play better checkers than this man plays chess ? Academy are certainly due him for these beautiful So, the Academy has made honorable mention of art photographs." Mr. Struss came to the plat­ the next outstanding achievements in each group. form to receive his statuette and certificate. " Honorable mention for the cinematography of "The first honorable mention goes to Mr. King 'Sadie Thompson' and other pictures is awarded Vidor for directing the dramatic picture, 'The to Mr. George Barnes. Mr. Barnes could not be Crowd'." Mr. Vidor came forward and received present. his certificate. "First award for the art direction of 'T he Tem­ "The next honorable mention, which is also for pest' and 'The Dove' is awarded to Mr. William directing a dramatic picture, 'Sorrell and Son,' goes C. Menzies." Mr. Menzies came to the platform to Mr. Herbert Brenon, who is not here but has to receive his statuette and certificate. wired expressing his appreciation of the honor and "Honorable mention for the art direction of I know we are all glad that Mr. Brenon got the 'Sunrise' goes to Mr. Rochus Gliese, who is 111 honor. Europe at present, and has not been reached. A "The honorable mention in the comedy field for man may leave town and get out of our reach, but directin g the comedy picture, 'Speedy', goes to Mr. what is done is done and the Academy is here to T ed Wilde." Mr. Wilde came forward and re­ say that it was done and that it was good work. cei ved his certificate. "Honorable mention for the art direction of "The first award for writing the original story 'Seventh Heaven' was given to Harry Oliver." Mr. 'Underworld', was awarded to Mr. Ben H echt. Olive r received his certificate. H e is now in New York and he has wired his ap­ "The first award for engineering effects goes to preciation of the honor, as Mr. Brenon did. That a man whom I am very glad to see get the award.

[ 3 ] He was my first teacher in the new art, Mr. Roy possibilities and experimented with what is now Pomeroy. He is in Europe at present and has known as the Vitaphone, and who first saw there sent a cablegram of acceptance. was a possibility of making talking pictures. I " Honorable mention for engineering effects goes thank you." to Mr. Nugent Slaughter." Mr. Slaughter received Mr. de Mille continued: his award. "A special first award for wntmg, directing, " Honorable mention for engineering effects also acting, and producing 'The Circus' goes to Charles goes to Mr. Ralph H ammeras." IVIr. H ammeras Chaplin. I think he is the only one to whom the received his award. Academy has or eve r will give a first award to one "The first award for his performance in 'The man for writing, directing, acting and producing a Way of All Flesh' and 'The Las t Command' goes picture. It takes us back to the old days. Mr. to Mr. Emil Jannings, who arrives in Berlin to­ Chaplin is not here, due to cold feet but he has day. Mr. J annings was presented with his statuette wired his high appreciation of the honor. before he left and carried it with him to Germany. "Honorable mention for producing the unique Mr. Hollander is here to represent him. and artistic picture, 'The Crowd', goes to the "The first award for the best performances of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Company." Mr. Louis B. an actress, for her appearances in 'Seventh Heaven,' ~1aye r accepted the award. 'Sunrise', and 'The Street Angel', goes to Miss "Honorable mention for producing the unique J anet Gaynor." Miss G aynor came to the platform picture 'Chang', goes to the Paramount-Famous and received her statuette and certificate. Lasky Corporation." Mr. Schulberg came to the " Honorable mention for her performance in platform and received the certificate. 'Sadie Thompson' goes to Miss Gloria Swanson, "But there was also a first award that goes to who is out of the city. this company, for the most outstanding picture of " Honorable mention for her performance in 'A the year, 'Wings'. I'd like to call upon Mr. Adolph Ship Comes In' goes to Miss Louise Dresser." Miss Zukor to accept this award for his company." Dresser came to the platform to receive her certifi­ A reel of talking film then showed Adolph Zukor cate. as he was photographed with Mr. Fairbanks in the "Honorable mention for his performance in 'The Paramount Long Island studios. Mr. Zukor ex­ Noose' and 'The Patent Leather Kid' goes to Dick pressed high appreciation of the award on his own Barthelmess. He is in New York but he has wired behalf and that of the company. his appreciation of the honor and his congratula­ George Stanley, who modelled the statuette as t ions to the Academy on this occasion. selected by Cedric Gibbons, was called to acknowl­ edge applause for his work. COMPANY AWARDS MARY PICKFORD "Now the producers are also an important Chairman de Mille then yielded the floor to branch of the industry, but much more difficult to Mary Pickford who made the following important ge t at personally. announcement with regard to the Motion Picture "The Fox Company has not only a first award Relief Fund: but also an honorable mention. It gets the first "It has been a long time since we have been award for the most unique and artistic picture 'Sun­ gathered together and I always so enjoy the eve­ rise', and it gets honorable mention for producing nings sponsored by the Academy that I dislike to an outstanding picture, 'Seventh Heaven'. The take any part of it for business, but the matter in statuette which goes with the first award has gone question is one in which I am so interested and to Mr. Fox and the citations of honor I hope will which I feel so vitally concerns us all that I have be received for the company by Mr. Sheehan." Mr. no choice in the matter. I am referring to the Mo­ Sheehan came forward and received the certificates tion Picture Relief Fund and its withdrawal from for these two awards. the Community Chest. "Honorable mention for producing an outstand­ "We, who are so active in the making of motion ing picture, 'The Racket', goes to the Caddo Com­ pictures, and who have prospered more or less, pany." Mr. Joseph Engel accepted the award for are apt to forget, in our rush and hurry and in the Caddo Company. the excitement of our many interests, those in the "To Warner Brothers goes a special first award many branches of our profession who have been for producing 'The Jazz Singer', the pioneer out­ less fortunate either through sickness or old age standing talking picture which has revolutionized or other conditions over which they have had no the industry. The Warners are in New York, but control. Mr. Darryl Zanuck is here and he will accept the "Many of these have been prominent actors. well honor for the company." known directors, or talented writers, who, for one Mr. Zanuck, in accepting, said: reason or another, have been left behind in the "It is the wish of Warner Brothers that I accept race. The procession has passed them by, and it is this award in the name of Mr. Sam Warner, who for their aid that the Motion Picture Relief Fund was a pioneer in pictures and who first saw the of America was formed.

[4 J "As you know, the Fund has been operating as again. Out in the laboratories in the univerSIties an agency of the Community Chest, but it has commences a little bit of an idea, but we don't been decided by the trustees to wi.thdraw from this know what to do with it. Someone outside in the organization the latter part of October, 1929. This world sees a big idea in it and they produce some­ puts the entire burden on our shoulders, but it is thing that humanity finds interesting. Then fne one we should take up willingly and uncomplain­ university begins to arrange courses, begins to do ingly. The question of caring for our own should more work in that field, and begins to build up a be a matter of pride to us. curriculum to help make this field a more useful "Our relations with the Community Chest have and more productive one. The university has just been most happy and harmonious and in coming to go ne through this last cycle in the motion picture this decision the Motion Picture Relief Fund field. It seems to me that the motion picture in­ wishes it to be understood that the withdrawal is dustry has walled itself in-has hedged itself in. in no way a reflection on the Chest. There are The university man has been able to learn about many reasons why the move seemed advisable. One other industries; some he could know and under­ of the most important is the fact that our Fund stand thoroughly. But he has not been able to is a national organization and that its relief must know the motion picture industry. often extend outside Los Angeles and Hollywood, "It has been a privilege and a revelation to visit making it necessary for it to disburse more funds some of your studios and meet some of your direc­ that the Chest has been able to allow. The Trustees tors and some of your big financial men. Our whole felt, furthermore, that an industry as prosperous group have been thrilled at seeing the visions of as ours should be able to care for its own without possibilities your Academy makes open. It is the asking for outside help. chain that binds the industry together and also the "I wish to repeat that this in no way reflects link that ties it up with the universities and other upon the Community Chest and that we of the groups outside the industry. It fulfills this final motion picture industry should continue to give full feature, that final phase of the cycle of industrial and proper support to that organization, but in development. We have offered courses in psycho­ doing so we should bear in mind that we are now logy (I think of it as human engineering) ; we have responsible for raising the funds necessary to main­ offered other courses somewhat germaine to your tain the Motion Picture Relief Fund in the same art-courses in art and the appreciation of music. generous spirit which has always marked the chari­ Next we will introduce courses in the appreciation ties of our profession." of the photoplay. We have never had this chance Chairman de Mille then called upon several dis­ before for contact between the university and the tinguished guests. "Let us get for a moment a motion picture industry. Our photoplay courses little glance at ourselves as others see us," he pro­ will be in charge of Paul Farnsworth, who has done posed. "To that end I am first going to call upon much in the field of art and the psychology of art. Professor Walter R. Miles of Stanford University. " I see a picture of an Egyptian standing in the sun looking at something. He is holding in his hands PROFESSOR W. R. MILES a roll that he unrolls from his right hand to his left hand. He is looking; he is studying. It is the Profesor Miles spoke in part as follows: Egyptian ritual of death. "My colleagues, Mr. Everett W. Smith of the "Another picture comes to my mind. I see a Division of Journalism, and Mr. F. G. Tickell of man out here standing in the sunshine. There is a the School of Engineering of Stanford University, reel in front of him and he is passing film from who came here with me, and I are here to express his right hand to his left hand. On the film are the cordial greetings of Stanford University to the a series of pictures. There is light-it is a living Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. picture. The end is not yet." I want to say that I have talked with Acting Presi­ Pointing out the importance of the announcement dent Swain of Stanford and he would like to have us take this occasion, in fact, we welcome it, to Chairman de Mille said: thank the Academy for its participation in the semi­ "I know that you have been as thrilled as I was centennial celebration of the first moving picture at hearing that another university is going to put that took place at Stanford last week. We were in a course in their department of psychology in glad that you thought of this experiment somewhat the appreciation of the motion picture as an art. as we did and were willing to send such representa­ "While we are on that subject, I would like to tives as Mr. Louis B. Mayer, Mr. William C. de get another point of view from outside of the Mille, Mr. Alec Francis, Mr. Louis L. Tolhurst, Academy. We have here several representatives and other members of your group. Mr. Frank from the University of Southern California who Woods and Mr. Lester Cowan have also been ex­ have been conducting the first course in apprecia­ tremely helpful to us from start to finish. tion of the photoplay that has been running this "There is an inevitable industrial cycle that is year at U. S. C. Will Dean Waugh say a word bound to take place. We pass through it again and to us? [ 5 ]

I PHOTOPLAY COURSE operation between national clubs and the Academy is going to result in a great amount of good not Dean Karl T. Waugh spoke in part as follows: only for the public at large but also for the good " More than a year ago there was a conference of the industry" between the University authorities and the College Affairs Committee of the Academy to establish a course which would bring college people in contact SIR GILBERT PARKER with the best that is being done in motion picture Chairman de Mille then called upon Sir Gilbert work. A new class in progress this semester is Parker, whose address was as follows: called Introduction to the Photoplay. It is a course "Ladies and Gentlemen: I have attended many which presents the main aspects of the photoplay as meetings of universities and other institutions and an introduction to future courses which will treat my impression of tonight is that this Academy of these aspects in more detail. It is an introductory Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is an extremely course of one semester and it stresses particularly important affair. Indeed it is as though you had the idea of the photoplay as an art form, and it is been doing this for generations. In other words, an art form, we trust, of a new type, not sculpture, you are a great organization. Mr. de Mille spoke not painting, not merely photography, not a com­ of the industry and the art. It is more than that. bination of these, but something more, and we trust It is a science. This whole business is a marvelous better as the years will prove. science and I am very glad indeed that the uni­ "I cannot go back to my seat without mentioning versities are taking it up. Stanford University those who have been most instrumental, who have fifty years ago invented the silent motion picture helped so much to make this course possible. I which has developed in fifty years into a world in­ want to thank, of course, the officers of the Acad­ stitution. emy, the members of the College Affairs Commit­ "I am going frankly to say that at first I was tee, and all those who have given up their time opposed to the idea of talking pictures. I have to the lectures." been converted in this town. I saw a picture last night. I'm not going to say what it was or where Mr. de Mille: I saw it, but it wholly converted me to the talking "This is rather a unique situation, usually the picture. universities take up a type of study and art after "You have a great opportunity. You have an it has become well formed but this is the first Academy of art-you have an Academy of science. chance of the universities to get in on an art while I have learned more of life from the silent picture it is a-borning. Any distinctive art in drama which than from any other source and expect to learn is based on such a great industry must differ very much more from the talking picture. Turner, radically from the art as we know it in the theatre. the great British painter, had a visit from a mer­ Just what that difference will be I don't know. chant prince who said, 'Mr. Turner, what is that We are all dying to find out. This is the time for a picture of?' Mr. Turner replied, 'Of the Thames.' the university with its trained thinkers to come in The prince remarked, 'Well, I never saw the and help us for it is their opportunity to help create Thames look like that,' and Turner replied, 'But art and not simply study it after it is created. Now don't you wish you could?' Don't you see, the in carrying out that turn of thought and getting silent picture and now the talking picture brings another point or outside view of the Acadamy I in a new feeling regarding life itself. To see is one would like to call upon a member of the Federated thing, but to see and to hear is the other, and to Women's Clubs. see and to hear through the talking film is to me a tremendous achievement. " I do not know what one year more will bring. } WOMEN'S CLUBS Mr. de Mille in his speech said that a year ago there were no talking pictures and look what you 1 Mrs. Edward J acobs explained the preview work have done in a year. You have advanced enor­ of the Women's Clubs. mously, and a year from now when you meet again "It gives me a great deal of pleasure to tell you your progress will be still greater. of our new service for the National Federation of "I like to look ahead and I foresee a great future Women's Clubs," she said. " Every day here at for your material but idealistic country, the most the Academy we are seeing previews of the films idealistic country in the world. I mean by idealism, after they are made. This is a marvelous opportun­ for example, your machinery. Your buildings are ity and we are appreciative and we send out re­ put up to last forever. You change your machinery views on these films, not only over all the United so often, and that is imagination. The most imagi­ States but into Europe and Canada and even to native people in the world today are you Americans, J apan. We are not censors. We boost the best and that is nothing derogatory to the country to and ignore the rest. By advance publicity, as we see which I belong and where I have lived the greater them long in advance of their bookings, we create part of my life. an interest in these better films We feel this co- "I foresee for this industry a tremendous devel-

[ 6 ] opment. What I think is the greatest educating they applied to the screen actor in the silent pic­ element in the world today is the talking film. You ture. It was found that there was an average of had first the simple silent film invented by Edison some six hundred parts in pictures under produc­ and some one else. Then you had the screen film. tion. Waiting for those parts were over four thouf­ Now you have the bigger thing still, the talking and actors and actresses. With talking pictures came film. Universities cannot teach how to act. They a deluge of additional actors and actresses from cannot teach how to write. They cannot teach the N ew York, so that it soon became a struggle of screen, but what they can do is to prepare the the survival of the fittest. The average player on human mind to receive the elements which only the silent screen owed most of his success to sev­ the experiences of life can teach. Your experiences eral definite natural gifts, such as figure, profile, of life are tremendous. eyes, and ease of action, coupled with a few tricks. " I knew Whistler. His Carlisle is in the Glas­ With the talking picture came a new demand on gow Gallery. The trustees of the Glasgow Gal­ the player and that demand is the absolute neces­ lery came down to London and said to him: 'How sity for a thorough craftsmanship in speech. The much for that picture, Mr. Whistler?' He said: silent player has been called on overnight to learn 'One thousand guineas.' They said: 'One thousand a new art. He has had to a great extent amply guineas is an awful price to pay for a modern pic­ mastered that problem. He has met this test nobly ture, for the colors of the modern picture fade.' and well. The Actors' Branch of the Academy Whistler said: 'The colors of modern pictures do has meetings once a month and the actors' problems not fade and therein lies their damnation I' are discussed. This is only one of the ways in which "A great painter was Whistler and he came from the Academy functions. Carrying them all forward the United States. A great painter was Sargent and in the spirit with which we are now animated we he came from the United States. You Americans will achieve that place that we have always hoped are not young in art. You are old in art. You for among the great ins~itutions of this nation. have been going strong since 1492. You are not In introducing Mr. Mayer as the next speaker, young. You are old. This state of California is the chairman said : "We must have just a word young, but from this state has proceeded-let me from one of the Academy's oldest and staunchest say in spite of New York-the vision, the vitality, supporters and above all one of the members of the the imagination and the idealism which goes to Academy who has seen most truly its ideals and make up the human motion picture art." has hewn most closely to the line with the Academy in trying to achieve that ideal for which the Acad­ emy stands, Mr. Louis B. Mayer," ACADEMY PIONEERS Mr. Mayer responded in ;part: "Ladies and Introducing them as Fred, Conrad and Louis B. gentlemen: When the Academy was first started Mayer, Mr. de Mille called upon three of the it was my thought that there must be a closer original founders: Mr. Niblo responded first: understanding between the artistic and the business " I am deeply impressed, I only can say regarding side of making pictures. what has been said about a great many people "An instance of the good fellowship promoted is who perhaps so far do not understand or quite be­ the ice cream that was served here tonight. Cecil lieve in the Academy and its necessary place that B. de Mille got a 'Paramount' and enjoyed every also this condition existed when the first train was bit of it. I can't say for sure, but if Sid Grauman put on steel rails in opposition to the ox cart and got a Roxy he ate it all and enjoyed it. I can vouch horse cart. But the train, the steamship, and the for Ben Schulberg, who enjoyed the M-G-M ice airplane did come and have stayed. I believe the cream. You see the Academy has done wonders in Academy is here to stay. It has been a great gratifi­ two years by making us all harmonious. cation for me to be here, to see this very responsive "It is a tribute to Frank Borzage for directing gathering for this second anniversary and for the 'Seventh Heaven' to get the award he got tonight, awards of merit, where we can all gather and pat to be sure, but more than that it is an inspiration each other on the back, where we can pay our re­ for others to make another 'Seventh Heaven' to­ spects to those of our co-workers who have done morrow. These awards have a dual purpose. One distinguished service. Personally, I would have is that we want to recognize fine achievement and given anything in the world to have received one the other is that we want to inspire those others of those little statuettes. But I have a lot to be to give us finer achievements tomorrow. proud of without the statuette. I am proud to be "The Academy has done great work and those a member of the Academy." people who don't belong to it should know about Conrad Nagel was then introduced. After re­ it. There has been a great change in our industry, ferring to many obstacles which the Academy has completely reversing its policy of doing things. You had to overcome, Mr. Nagel continued: should know the problems the Academy is taking "The coming of the talking picture has brought on in this new development. I think we are two or many new problems. The Actors' Branch has had three years ahead of where we would have been its share of these problems to consider. The Cast­ without the Academy. The technicians and engi­ ing Bureau once made a survey of conditions as neers of our industry have been taking an active [ 7 ] part, debating their theories, discussing their ex­ Mr. Cecil de Mille responded: periences, trying to find ways out. When you get all that natural ability together in one room, is it "Mr. Chairman, President, Ladies and Gentle­ any wonder that the motion picture industry is men: Since Cain and Abel had their difference the where it is today? If you look into the purpose elder brother has always taken advantage of the of the Academy and what it is doing you will all younger. He was polite to every single speaker­ feel that it is a privilege and an honor to belong gave them plenty of time, but expected that I to it. Noone of us can afford to be self-satisfied take the biggest subject that has been broached, and not think of the service he is going to give. that is loaded with dynamite, and explain it com­ r was reminded of Herbert Hoover, that great pletely to you in two or three phrases. So I will American, who has a world of service in his ex­ do so. In fact, I will explain it in one phrase. perience, when you mentioned Stanford. It was The relationship between the producers, whom I Stanford that gave us Herbert Hoover. Life with­ have the honor to represent, and the Academy and out service has very little in it We owe a great all its branches is a partnership in a great ideal. I debt to the industry that made it all possible. thank you." The chairman then introduced the president of The chairman replied: the Producers' association, asking him to give the true point of view between the position of the "The kid's clever. I knew he'd get in something producers and the Academy and to do it in a few about dynamite." words. "He is a man known to all of you," said Invited to the platform by the chairman, Al Jol­ the chairman, "but I knew him first, Mr. Cecil B. son brought the evening to a close, receiving en­ de Mille." thusiastic applause for witty personal references. MANY LETTERS AND TELEGRAMS

The following letters and telegrams have been pleased. We all put so much into our work that received by President Fairbanks and by the Academy money can never pay for. Therefore I applaud the in regard to the Awards and the Annivesary: Academy for measuring achievement in all lines Janet Gaynor: "This is an honor that I deeply of this industry by some standard other than money. appreciate. I regard the opinion of the Academy This annual award by the Academy will be, I am as so expert and unbiased that to be the recipient sure, a great incentive to creative and artistic of its award makes me very happy indeed." effort." T ed Wilde: I have been convalescing for the Emil J annings: "I want to take this opportunity past month and your wonderful compliment to to extend to you my heartiest thanks for the honor my efforts has done so much toward my recovery bestowed upon me, which fills me with pride and that I feel that I owe you a doctor's fee. Any words joy and which I shall cherish all my life as a kind that I could think of would be inadequate to ex­ remembrance in recognition of my artistic activities press the appreciation that I feel." in U. S. A." Harry Oliver: " I have been made very happy Cedric Gibbons: "Congratulations on anniversary by the award from the Academy. A recognition Academy dinner. The Academy's constructive work of this sort by an independent group of experts helps should be a great source of satisfaction to all its tremendously, in my opinion, to encourage and members. Sorry I am in New York and have to promote original work in this industry and will miss dinner." eventually give to motion pictures the traditions Charles Chaplin: "I want to express to the and status it needs to take its place among the Academy my deep appreciation for the special honor other arts." the Academy judges have conferred upon me. I L ouise Dresser-Gardner: "Many beautiful things regret deeply my inability to be present at the have come to me in my life but nothing has touched anniversary dinner tonight." me more than this tribute you have paid me. I Herbert Brenon: "I sincerely regret my in­ simply cannot make a few words express the grati­ ability to be present tonight owing to having been tude I feel!" called out of town. I am deeply appreciative of William Fox: "Please accept my thanks and ap­ the high honor which my fellow workers have paid preciation for the award conferred on Fox Film me in rating 'Sorrell and Son' so highly." Corporation by the Academy of Motion Picture Dick Barthelmess : "I regret exceedingly that it Arts and Sciences for the production of "Sunrise" is impossible for me to be present at this birthday and the honorable mention for "Seventh Heaven." . party of the Academy. WiIl you please accept my J ack L. Warner: "Will you kindly extend my congratulations on its behalf and extend my thanks thanks and appreciation to the board of judges for for the honor it has done me in giving me the the award. We more than appreciate the distinc­ honorary mention among last year's pictures. tion conferred upon us." Warmest personal regards." Frank Borzage: "I am honored and deeply Will H. Hays to President Fairbanks: I regret

[ 8 ] exceedingly that I cannot be with you tonight to foresaw the possibilities of this art and sCience join in celebrating the second anniversary of the forty years ago and he who would attempt to pre­ Academy and in honoring those among you who in dict today what the next four decades will bring the past year have made distinguished contributions would probably find his forecast gross~y inadequate. to motion picture art. Progress in that art and in the The motion picture is becoming more of an art industry depends upon the creative minds of individ­ and more of a science each succeeding year and the uals with imagination and administrative intelli­ recognitions which your Academy awards will year gence. In giving suitable recognition to worthy after year be the milestones, will mark this progress achievements and in promoting cooperation and un­ and stimulate research as well as inspire the artists. derstanding between various branches you are def­ I regret that I cannot share with the pleasure of initely quickening the advance of motion pictures. meeting and seeing the women and the men in whose Kindest regards to yourself and to all the members." care the public intrusts the motion pictures of the Roy Pomeroy~cabled from London to President future." Fairbanks: "Please accept my congratulations for J os. Schenck to President Fairbanks: "Please ac­ the splendid manner in which you have guided the cept for yourself and convey to your distinguished Academy. All good wishes for its continued success. associates my congratulations on the splendid work Warmest regards to you and my fellow members." the Academy is doing under your leadership. As one Charles Rosher, winner with Karl Struss of first who is intensely interested in the progress and de­ award for cinematography, cabled from London: velopment of the picture business I am grateful to "Congratulations and sincere wishes to all." the Academy for the great practical contributions Denison Clift cabled from London: "Greetings it has made to the industry, particularly through to the Academy on the occasion of the second annual the efforts of its grievance committee. Coordination, dinner from absent members in London. My visits cooperation and thorough understanding between to Paris, Rome and Berlin reveal genuine interest all branches of the picture business are absolutely in Academy affairs. Best wishes for coming year necessary to the success and progress of our indus­ of success and achievement." try. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Adolph Zukor to President Fairbanks: "My sin­ Sciences has been the greatest single force combat­ cere congratulations to you and the Academy of ing certain selfish interests that are constantly try­ Motion Picture Arts and Science on the second an­ ing to array one branch of the profession against niversary of your helpful work in advancing the best another branch. All branches want progress and interest of the film industries. I regret exceedingly success and so all must subscribe toward practical that I cannot be with you in person." cooperation for the benefit of the whole industry. George Eastman, head of the Eastman Kodak If any scrapping is necessary to relieve the monot­ Company to President Fairbanks: "Forty years ago ony of the business, by all means let the producers in 1889 Mr. Edison succeeded in operating his scrap among themselves." kinetoscope with a strip of film from our labora­ tories. This was the beginning of motion pictures. Karl Struss: "Thank you so much for your last In the intervening years great artists and produc­ letter advising me of receiving the award for cine­ ers have made this industry one of the four largest matography in 1928. I highly appreciate the dis­ industries in the United States. Today music and tinction conferred on me and Mr. Charles Rosher speaking accompany many motion pictures. Noone for the photography of 'Sunrise'."

PROGRESS OF COLLEGE RELATIONS

Announcement that Stanford University will in­ Acting President Swain as being the member of troduce a course in the appreciation of the photo­ the Stanford faculty best qualified to conduct the play was made at the Anniversary banquet by Pro­ course. fessor Walter R. Miles, head of the delegation ap­ The course announced by Stanford University pointed by Acting President Robert Swain to rep­ constitutes the first {ormal recognition by that insti­ resent the university. At the subsequent meeting of tution of the photoplay for curricular study. It fol­ the Board of Directors it was voted to extend all lows the semi-centennial celebration held at Stan­ reasonable cooperation and assistance to the univer­ ford this month in which the Academy took a promi­ sity on behalf of the production forces of the indus­ nent part. try represented by the Academy. Professor Paul R. Farnsworth who will conduct PIONEER COURSE the Stanford course will spend the next two months in the Hollywood studios making an intensive study The pioneer course in the photoplay at University with the cooperation of the Academy and the various of Southern California concluded a most successful producers. Professor Farnsworth, who is a nation­ term May 29 with the lecture by William C. de ally known authority in his field of social psychology Mille on "The Future of the Photoplay." The and art was chosen after thorough consideration by course began February 6. As a special treat for

[9] l~ ______~J the class a program was arranged Tuesday evening. BOOK BY ACADEMY Through the courtesy of the Paramount-Famous­ Lasky studio about seventy students were con­ A textbook for colleges designed to give an ac­ ductcd on a tour of silent and sound stages. Later curate understanding and appreciation of the photo­ several films 'of both ancient and modern dates were playas an art form and as a social institution will projected in the Academy projection room. Members be published by the Academy and U. S. C. in ad­ of the class voiced on behalf of the whole group visement with college leaders. The nucleus of this their feeling that the course has proved of great book will be the lectures delivered during the course benefit and given them as students an insight into at U. S. C., all of which will be properly revised the industry they could have gotten in no other and edited. Arrangements made during confer­ way. Dean Karl T. Waugh of the Liberal Arts ence between Vice-President William de Mille and College gave high praise to the course and anounced President von Kleinsmid of U. S. C. for joint that it will be repeated yearly. participation by the university in the publication of this book were approved by the Board at its EXTENSION PLANS last meeting. Universities already contacted by the Academy have indicated a willingness to introduce Extension of the photoplay appreciation course in a course in photoplay appreciation as soon as an a number of universities is expected to result from adequate subject matter can be provided. This negotiations now in progress. Communication has textbook, it is hoped, will satisfy this need and been established with the University of California, will succeed in stimulating the introduction of a Columbia University, Mills College, University of photoplay course in many colleges throughout the California at Los Angeles, Johns Hopkins U nivers­ country. Action by the Board was in pursuance of ity and the University of Oregon. plans submitted by the College Affairs Committee.

ACADEMY CONCILIATION RECORD

The Conciliation Committee will be called to December 13 case withdrawn by complainant. mee t at the earliest possible date for hearing on two Case No. 7 Actress vs. actress. Filed Octo­ ber 15, 1927. Conflict of professional names. cases and consideration of a third case with reports Committee. Efforts of compromise unsuccessful. on others as to progress. contract. November 8 referred to Conciliation Following is a complete record of complaints for­ December 15 Actors' Branch Executive Commit­ mally filed with the Academy (names omitted) al­ tee advised complaint be dismissed as not war­ ranting official action. though numerous other controversial points and in­ Case No. 8 Art director vs. producer. Filed terpretations of contracts have been adjusted amic­ November 2, 1927. Claim that complainant did ably by the Secretary's office without reference to not receive proper recognition and publicity. the Academy committees: November 7 Technicians' Executive Committee Case No. 1 Actor vs. all producers. Filed dismissed complaint because suit had been filed May, 1927. Complaint dismissed by Conciliation in court by complainant. Committee due to refusal of complainant to file Case No.9 ' Actor vs. producer. Filed No­ detailed' complaint. vember 18, 1927. Claim for salary under con­ Case No. 2 Writer vs. producing company. tr act. November 28 Actors' Executive Committee Filed June 30, 1927. Claim for final payment for referred same to Conciliation Committee. Decem­ services. Referred by Writers' Executive Com­ ber 23 Committee advised that respondent had mittee to Conciliation Committee. Hearing held made satisfactory settlement with complainant. December 15, 1927. Both sides represented. Case No. 10 Actor vs. producer. Filed Decem­ Award to complainant for full amount of claim. ber 1, 1927. Claim for salary. December 15 case Payment made by company. settled by payment by respondent to complainant Case No.3 Writer vs. writer. Filed July 2, of one week's salary. 1927. Alleged infringement. Settled by complain­ Case No. 11 Writer vs. Producer. Filed Decem­ ber 2, 1927. December 7 referred to Conciliation ~nt and respondent without further act ion. Case No. 4 Writer vs. producing company. Committee. January 13, 1928 Committee notified Filed August 27, 1927. Plagiarism. Investigations by respondent that case had been settled amic­ by Executive Committee Writers' Branch. Con­ ably with complainant. sidered at four m eetings of committee. Decision Case No. 12 Actress vs. producer. Filed De­ by committee Nov. 8, 1927, dismissing complaint cember 7, 1927. Claim for compensation. Case on ground no cause for action. investigated by Actors' Executive Committee and Case No.5 Art Director vs. producing com- dismissed on ground that complainant had al­ pany. Filed August 29, 1927. Claim that com­ ready settled with the company. plainant was prevented from obtaining employ­ Case No. 13 Actress vs. producer. Filed De­ ment. Sept. 7 refened by Technicians' Branch cember 24, 1927. January 5, 1928 referred to Executive Committee t o Conciliation Committee. Conciliation Committee. January 14: complain­ October 3 investigated by Conciliation Committee. ant requested to file additional statement. Janu­ October 24 complainant withdrew complaint for ary 23: no response from complainant and case reason that cause of complaint no longer existed. dismissed. Case No. 6 Writer vs. producing company. Case No. 14 WriteI'vs. producer. Filed Janu­ Filed October 2, 1927. Claim for balance due on ary 25, 1928 : Claim for balance due on contract.

[ 10] February 8: Referred by Executive Committee Committee. August 7: Conciliation Committee Writers' Branch to Conciliation Committee. Aug­ ordered investigation and requested reply from ust 28: response received from respondent rep­ company. August 10: Case settled between com­ resenting unsatisfactory continuity. Case dis­ plainant and respondent by compromise. missed because not sufficient ground for action. Case No. 22 Actor vs. producer. Filed Sep­ Case No. 15 Actress vs. producer. Filed tember 26, 1928. Claim for one day's salary under March 14, 1928. Complaint that professional contract. Executive Committee of Actors' Branch name was being infringed. March 14: Company considered case and asked for response from res­ notified. March 20: Case withdrawn by com­ pondent. November 9: Response from company plainant with statement that company had received. Action delayed by absence of complain­ changed infringing name of actress. ant from city. March 6, 1929: Referred to Con­ Case No. 16 Actor vs. producer. Filed April ciliation Committee by Actors' Branch Executive 6, 1928: Claim for one day's pay. April 21: Committee recommending hearing on interpreta­ Company replied that actor had not been called. tion of contract. March 20: Meeting of Con­ June 29; Case referred by Actors' Executive Com­ ciliation Committee and case further investigated mittee to Conciliation Comittee. August 7: Case by member of Conciliation Committee. March considered and further information requested. De­ 28: Hearing ordered by Concilation Committee. cember 12: Decision that case was against the Both sides notified. Case set for hearing June agent rather than the company. Requests for 3, 1929. Hearing postponed until respondent can reply from agent have been ignored. be represented. Case No. 17 Raw film company vs. representa­ Case No. 23 Writer vs. producer. Filed Sep­ tive of rival company. Filed April 17, 1928. Claim tember 27, 1928. Plagiarism. December 19: Re­ that complainant had been accused unjustly of fen'ed to Conciliation Committee by Writers' tampering with test films. May 17: Respondent Executive Committee. January 16: Meeting Con­ notified. May 29: Letter from respondent fully ciliation Committee requesting reply from res­ exonerating complainant. pondent. February 28: Reply received from res­ Case No. 18 Writer vs. producing company. pondent. March 28: Meeting Conciliation Com­ Filed May 10, 1928. Plagiarism. May 29: Com­ mittee. Matter referred back to Writers' Ex­ pany notified. June 6 : company replied. July 18: ecutive Committee for further investigation, and Executive Committee Writers' Branch"ordered in­ attempted conciliation. April 17: Writers' Execu­ vestigation and asked for documentary evidence tive Committee appointed one of their members from complainant. No response from complain­ to view film and read script and report back to ant. Case dropped. Committee. Report unfavorable to complainant. Case No. 19 Writer vs. producer. Filed Final decision pending. July 14, 1928. Claim for full amount of contract. July 18: Referred by Executive Committee Writ­ Case No. 24 Two writers vs. producers. Filed ers' Branch to Conciliation Committee. August October 15, 1928. Balance claimed under con­ 8: S.ent copy of complaint to respondent. J anu­ tract. November 5: Respondents filed statement ary 16, 1929: No reply having been received from agreeing to abide by decision of Conciliation respondent Conciliation Committee found in Committee. December 14: Complainants and res­ favor of complainant for full amount of claim. pondents filed statement agreeing to abide by Judgment paid by company. decision of Conciliation Committee. December Case No. 20 Actor vs. producer. Filed July 12: Hearing before Conciliation Committee both 23, 1928. Claim for eleven days work under his sides present. Further consideration continued contract. July 26 : Act ors' Executive Committee to January 16, 1929 when after exhaustive ques­ referred matter to Conciliation Committee. Aug­ tions committee closed hearing. January 16: De­ ust 8: Conciliation Committee considered com­ cision of Conciliation Committee r endered in plaint and called for response from respondent. favor of complainants to part of balance due October 23: No reply having been received from under contract. Judgment paid by respondents. company Secretary conferred by telephone with Case No. 25 Cinematographer vs. producer. company representative. He claimed response had Filed April 5, 1929. Complaint that company been sent by mail and explained why complaint has cancelled engagement contrary to contract. was not justified. December 12 : Conciliation April 11: Technicians' Executive Committee re­ Committee gave decision favor of company on ferred matter to Conciliation Committee on re­ ground that sufficient evidence had not been sub­ ceipt of response from company and pending mitted to controvert verbal statement of com­ efforts for settlement. April 24: Secretary ar­ pany. March 6, 1929 : Actors' Executive Com­ ranged meeting between complainant and respon­ mittee requested r ehearing. March 20: Concila­ dent. May 6 : Complainant notified Committee tion Committee decided to re-open case. April that no settlement had been arrived at. May 3: Company by letter agreed to r eopening and to 7: Company formally served with complaint to abide by final decision of committee. Committee which there has been no response at this date. ordered hearing to be held at first convenient Case No. 26 Writer vs. producer. Filed May time for bot h parties. 9, 1929. Claim for full amount of contract price. Case No. 21 Actor vs. producer. Filed July May 14: Wrote company sending digest of com­ 23, 1928. Claim for salary. July 25: Referred by plaint. May 25 : Reply received from company. Actors' Executive Committee to Conciliation Case pending. MISCELLANEOUS ANNOUNCEMENTS

The D irectors' Branch of the Academy will hold periences in recent productions which they have an open meeting in the Academy assembly room the directed. These discussions will be accompanied in night of Tuesday, J une 4th, when prominent direc­ some cases by exhibitions of examples from the pic­ tors of pictures will be present and will discuss ex- tures. Those who have engaged to be present for

[ 11 ] this purpose are Fred Niblo, W illiam de Mille and a conference. The purpose of this conference is to Sam Taylor. Other directors who have been in­ discuss and decide on the feasibility of a series of vited to speak are Frank Borzage, William K. demonstrations, tests, and investigations of the sev­ Howard and Alan Crosland, all of whom have had eral important problems that have arisen in connec­ very recent experiences in directing talking pictures. tion with sound recording. The indications are that The program is in charge of Donald Crisp, repre­ this meeting will be very generally attended as the senting the Executive Committee of the Directors' importance of the project under consideration is Branch, and he will provide other exhibits for the fully recognized by all. occasion. All members of the Academy are welcome to attend this meeting and as the matters to be dis­ INFORMATION cussed are of value to all branches of the profession While the Academy has never sought publicity there should be a large attendance. in the usual sense we have suffered seriously from the inability to keep the press informed of what OTHER BRANCHES the Academy is doing. Mr. Gledhill is now in charge of this work. There are 45 different publica­ Meetings of other branches are being arranged tions and agencies with important connections in Los as programs can be secured that will warrant full Angeles to be covered in this service and contact attendance of the membership. has now been established with all of them. The The Actor's Branch is preparing a program that results already obtained regarding the dinner give will be a continuation of the last very successful abundant promise of greater public attention. demonstration meeting held by this branch. Con­ ferences are being held with members of the Writers' SPEAKERS Branch and of the Executive Committee for the purpose of working out a program for a Writers' The Academy has been in receipt of numerous Branch meeting. The same is true also of the requests for speakers to appear at various functions, T echnicians' Branch. Important subjects are being dinners, luncheons, etc. The Vice President and the considered for this branch program. Secretary appeared at a recent luncheon of the mo­ tion picture department of the California Federation of Women's Clubs and later the Secretary repre­ AWARDS FOR 1929 sented the Academy at a luncheon of the Wilshire The Awards Committee for 1929 has presented Women's Club. Winifred Dunn also represents the to the Board of Directors recommendations cover­ Academy at a function of the Women's University ing the scope of the next Academy awards, and the Club. While many requests for motion picture rep­ Board at its last meeting went into the subject ex­ resentation at various functions are usually for the haustively. No anouncement will be made of the purpose of getting stars to appear as attractions, it program until the conditions for each award are is considered desirable to accede to some of them carefully worked out. Since the bestowal of awards with well known Academy members. for 1928 the interest in the coming awards is be­ coming general on the part of the membership and HONORARY MEMBERS the public, and the importance of Academy awards According to the Constitution and By-Laws of is becoming increasingly recognized. the Academy we are permitted each year to honor five distinguished persons as honorary members. It PRODUCERS' BRANCH has been suggested that this authority be exercised during the present year and that preparations be A meeting of the Producers' Branch has been made for an Academy function, such as a dinner, ca lled for Wednesday night, June 5th, in the Acad­ when these honorary degrees or memberships may emy club lounge, with all prominent sound engi­ be conferred on five distinguished persons to be se­ neers from various studios invited to participate in lected by the Board.

[ 12 ]