Series DC 097/4 - Material related to Kino Film Group

The independent film production group Kino Film Group had their foundations rooted in Collet’s Bookstore which was established in 1933 and had various locations worldwide. It helped influence and establish a political community. The bookshop was a left-wing, revolutionary, and progressive source for socialist publications specializing in Russian, Eastern European, and Chinese materials. They held both English and foreign language works. The bookstore expanded throughout the world and became a hub for left-wing discussion and activism. On 19 Dec 1934, a Collet’s Bookstore opened in Glasgow at 229 High Street. The group is also referred to as Glasgow Kino. They were radically political in a very busy time period. They experimented with different styles and techniques of filmmaking.

Both Norman McLaren and Helen Biggar were members of the independent Kino Film Group. The two individuals had shared interests in left wing politics and worked together on various films. They had received support from trade unions for the Glasgow location. Helen Biggar had also worked at Collet's for a period.

Helen and Norman’s most famous film, an anti-war propaganda film, was titled “Hell Unltd.” It included blunt messages about anti-war sentiments, avoiding setting nations against each other, not spending money on weaponry, and refusing to fight. It included puppets, diagrams, animation, and live action elements. On 21 Apr 1936, Norman got the idea for the movie which he shared with Helen and they commenced the writing, editor, and producing for the film. After the Spanish Civil War broke out on 17 Jul 1936, Helen went down to the Kino Film Group in London hoping that they would accept their new film for distribution which they did. It was shown in England, Scotland, and America and won many awards.