The history of film and cinema began in the late 19th century with the invention of motion picture cameras by pioneers like **Thomas Edison** and the **Lumière brothers**. Early silent films, such as those by **Georges Méliès**, captivated audiences with their visual storytelling. The 1920s introduced synchronized sound, with **The Jazz Singer** (1927) marking the first "talkie." In the 1930s and 1940s, Hollywood's Golden Age brought iconic films and stars to the forefront. Technological advancements, such as color film and special effects, transformed the medium. Today, cinema continues to evolve with digital technologies, influencing global culture and entertainment.