Film history traces the development of cinema from its origins in the late 19th century to the present day. The first motion pictures were created in the 1890s, with pioneers like Thomas Edison and Lumière Brothers leading the way. Silent films dominated the early years, but the introduction of synchronized sound in the late 1920s, exemplified by The Jazz Singer, revolutionized the industry. Throughout the 20th century, film evolved with advancements in technology and storytelling. The rise of Hollywood in the 1930s and 1940s established a global film industry, while movements like Italian Neorealism and French New Wave introduced new artistic approaches. Today, cinema continues to innovate with digital technology and diverse narratives.