In Hollywood, "A novelty became an industry and, finally, an art form." Filmmaker Chuck Workman writes, produces and directs a definitive look at the sounds and images that have shaped our lives. From D.W. Griffith to today's film schools and new technology, this incredible compilation of clips and testimonial includes everybody's favourite movies, stars and directors. Workman explores each era and innovation -- silents and the great comedians; depression musicals, horror and "a new breed of hero; men who could beat the system;" the war years, westerns, film noir; the breakup of the big studios; the independent and realistic acting styles of the 50s Cinerama; sci-fi; European innovations; the experimental filmmakers of the 60s; "new faces of the 70s blockbusters, and the diversity of the 80s and 90s." All of this is beautifully illustrated in a feast for both the senses and the intellect. The movies' first one-hundred years have given us a legacy to be treasured, and it's documented in a presentation to be remembered. The First 100 Years is not only a tribute to all filmmakers of the last century, but especially to all viewers who became fascinated by the feature film over the years. This impressive documentary contains fragments from the most diverse film classics of the past century. From the controversial Birth Of A Nation, Gone With The Wind and Casablanca to fragments from 'modern' blockbusters such as Star Wars and Raiders Of The Lost Ark. It is a series of festive highlights with classic love scenes, famous quotes and the most sensational images. To top it all off, there are a number of interviews with a range of Hollywood's superstars, directors and most famous producers and screenwriters. This compilation about 100 years of feature films was produced by Oscar winner Chuck Workman and Joel Silver, the producer of dozens of top hits including the Lethal Weapon and Die Hard films. Produced, Written and Directed by Chuck Workman ; A Home Box Office Presentation in Association with The American Film Institute