Celluloid is a type of plastic made from cellulose, which is derived from plant materials. It was first created in the mid-19th century and became popular for its versatility and ability to be molded into various shapes. Celluloid was widely used in products like combs, buttons, and toys, as well as in the early film industry for making film reels. Although celluloid was revolutionary, it has some drawbacks, such as being flammable and prone to degradation over time. As a result, newer materials have largely replaced it in many applications. However, it remains significant in the history of plastic development and cinema.