Enjoying Classic Film Serials: The Best Approach

Classic film serials, such as the 1948 Superman serial, can be an exciting and immersive experience. These serials were originally designed to be consumed over time, with each episode airing weekly, often in a single theater in smaller towns. Movies were generally released once a week, usually on Wednesdays, with a typical weekday evening show including a serial, a newsreel, a cartoon, and the main feature. On weekends, you would see a double feature, which added another full-length movie to the evening's lineup.

The Evolution of Serial Consumption

The best way to watch these classic serials is to take them in at a pace that allows you to appreciate all the elements. In the days of early cinema, it was common to watch a serial once per week. This method allowed you to take in the credits, the recap from the previous episode, and the overall narrative arc. When television began to include serialized narratives, it adopted this steady, episodic viewing pattern, with reminders such as "Previously on XXX." Nowadays, modern serialized TV shows often encourage binge watching, where viewers watch all episodes in a single sitting.

The Modern Approach to Binge Watching and Sociability

For those who can make time, binge watching can be a rewarding experience. However, this approach requires setting aside several hours, usually five or six, to watch a single serial in its entirety. Not everyone, however, is in the position to follow this approach. For those who want to enjoy the experience without committing to a binge session, watching a few episodes at a time can be a good compromise.

Several serials have been condensed into feature-length versions to make them more accessible for one-sitting viewing. While these condensed versions eliminate redundancies, such as opening and closing credits and recap scenes, they can sometimes sacrifice important scenes. For example, the opening chapter of Dick Tracy’s G-Men (1939) featured an expositional newsreel that provided backstory on the villain, an Axis spy and saboteur named Zarnoff. Orson Welles was inspired by this technique for his film Citizen Kane (1941), but the condensed version of Dick Tracy’s G-Men excises this crucial sequence.

My Personal Experience

In my personal experience, I find that it's best to watch a few chapters at a time. This allows me to avoid being overwhelmed by the sheer length of each episode while still experiencing the serialized narrative. I typically watch two or three chapters in one sitting, skipping through the repetitive beginnings of each chapter. This way, I can savor the experience without overburdening myself, and yet I still get the full story arc of the serial.

Whether you choose to watch a serial once a week, binge watch in a few sittings, or opt for condensed versions, the key is finding the viewing method that best suits your preferences and lifestyle. The value of film serials lies not only in their entertainment but in their historical significance and storytelling techniques, which continue to influence modern media.