Topical Film Company

Credits

Compiled by
Logoarto

Background

Topical Film Company was an early British film production company founded by William Jeapes that specialized in creating news film, namely the Topical Budget newsreel which was issued from 1911 until 1931. Despite its continued operation, it is unlikely that Topical Budget could have sustained itself much longer, given its limited resources compared to its competitors. However, the War Office sought a new outlet for its official war films and entered into negotiations with Jeapes. In May 1917, this collaboration resulted in the launch of the War Office Official Topical Budget, which was essentially the original newsreel, now featuring exclusive footage captured by official cameramen on various war fronts. This arrangement, however, became increasingly strained, leading the War Office Cinematograph Committee (WOCC) to acquire the Topical Film Company in November 1917. This acquisition marked a turning point, contributing to the newsreel’s growing success as both a propaganda tool and a popular audience attraction throughout the remainder of the war.

Logo (1917)

Visuals: On a black background, a white rhombus that contains the word "TOPICAL" is seen. The word "TOPICAL" is also shaped like a rhombus.

Technique: A still printed card filmed by a cameraman.

Audio: None.

Availability: This logo is seen on the Topical Budget newsreel.