The introduction offers a historical overview of the Colonial Film Unit (1939-1955) and considers its legacies and enduring influence today.

The opening chapter unpicks the origins of government filmmaking in Africa and the emergence of Documentary and non-fiction film in inter-war Britain.

This chapter explores the ideologies and operating practices of the Colonial Film Unit throughout its fifteen-year history.

Chapter three examines the widespread deployment of film, and other media, within the colonies during the second world war.

This chapter considers the broader post-war movement – of film equipment, personnel, and training – from London to the colonies.

The final chapter analyses the local government units that emerged in the 1950s, particularly in Ghana, Nigeria, Jamaica and Trinidad.

Links to databases, websites and other online resources.

Links to buy the book.