Christmas at the Front
Poignant scenes of Allied troops enjoying their Yuletide rations at the first Christmas of WWI.
By December 1914 it was clear that the war wouldn't "all be over by Christmas", as many had hoped. British audiences were eager for news from the Front, and newsreels like Topical Budget freely obliged, filming behind the lines during the early months of the conflict. This poignant item shows Allied troops (probably Belgian) enjoying a break from fighting - comforting scenes for viewers back home.
CHRISTMAS AT THE FRONT
"CHRISTMAS AT THE FRONT. The Allied troops make the most of the Yule-tide festivities before returning to the trenches."
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The First World War
From the home front to the front line: life during the 'war to end all wars' as seen through the lens of newsreel, propaganda and drama.
Films made and shown in Britain between 1914 and 1918 reflect the scale and horror of the unfolding conflict across multiple theatres of war, but also capture a nation trying to get on with everyday life. Filmmakers shot everything from local events and celebrations to short comedies that provided a much-needed dose of light relief in difficult times. Insights into the changing role of women in wartime and Britain's reliance on colonial troops can also be found.
After WWI, Armistice Day and Remembrance ceremonies were often caught on film, while British cinema produced epic dramas addressing the experiences of the Great War into the 1920s and beyond.
12 videos in this collection
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The Austrian Tragedy Gaumont Graphic No. 342
3
Bully Boy
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Christmas at the Front Topical Budget 175-1
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"Stop the War" Demonstration in Trafalgar Square Gaumont Graphic No. 352
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Anti-German Riots in Liverpool following the Loss of 'Lusitania'
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From Trinidad to Serve the Empire Topical Budget 230-2
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Keep the Home Fires Burning
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London: Air Raid, 1917
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Australian Troops at the Pyramids
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Rescue Work in No Man's Land Topical Budget 332-2
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