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Telephones

Ellen E Jones and Mark Kermode guide us through the expanding universe of the moving image

Alexander Graham Bell made the first ever telephone call 150 years ago this Spring. That single moment of connection would transform communication - and provide storytellers with a rich device for drama, comedy, intimacy and tension. Screenshot looks at the history of the telephone on screen, and asks how film and TV have handled the problem of the smartphone.

Mark speaks to film critic Kim Newman about the history of the phone onscreen. Ellen speaks to critic Kayleigh Donaldson about smartphones and director Janicza Bravo about her film, Zola, and its inventive uses of smartphones.

Producer: Jane Long
A Prospect Street production for BBC Radio 4

Release date:

42 minutes

On radio

Fri 10 Apr 202619:15

Broadcasts

  • Fri 10 Apr 202619:15
  • Tue 14 Apr 202611:00

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