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Deep Dive: Saving Brinton (2018)

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Saving Brinton
Saving Brinton follows Mike Zahs, an Iowa resident, as he reveals a significant collection of film reels from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These reels, discovered in the basement of a farmhouse, belonged to William Franklin Brinton, a figure who played a crucial role in introducing moving pictures to America's Heartland. The film features rare footage, including scenes of President Teddy Roosevelt and early moving images from Burma, showcasing the historical importance of these artifacts. The documentary captures Zahs's efforts to restore Brinton's legacy, leading him to notable locations such as The Library of Congress and Paris. The narrative culminates in a screening at the State Theatre in Washington, Iowa, which has been operating since May 14, 1897, making it the world's oldest continuously operating cinema theatre. Through Zahs's passion and dedication, the film presents a rich tapestry of film history and community engagement.

Why Watch

  • •See rare footage of President Teddy Roosevelt.
  • •Meet Mike Zahs, a passionate film collector.
  • •Find out about the world's oldest cinema theatre.

Did You Know

•Mike Zahs found the film reels in a farmhouse basement in Iowa.
•The State Theatre in Washington, Iowa, opened on May 14, 1897.
•The film premiered at AFI Docs on June 17, 2017.
•William Franklin Brinton was an inventive farmboy turned movieman.

Perfect For

Film history enthusiastsIowa localsDocumentary fans