Early cinema refers to the initial phase of film production and exhibition that began in the late 19th century. This period saw the invention of devices like the kinetoscope and the cinematograph, which allowed for the projection of moving images. Pioneers such as Thomas Edison and the Lumière brothers played crucial roles in developing these technologies, leading to the first public screenings of films. The films produced during this time were typically short, lasting only a few minutes, and often featured simple narratives or scenes of everyday life. Notable examples include The Arrival of a Train at La Ciotat and The Great Train Robbery. Early cinema laid the foundation for the film industry, influencing storytelling and visual techniques in later decades.