Caliwood

Has anyone ever wondered how Cali earned the nickname “Caliwood”? Right here, in the heart of Cali, stands Caliwood, the Cinematography Museum. It’s not just a museum. It’s a vibrant testament to Cali’s cinematic passion, a love affair that blossomed long before Hollywood even dreamt of blockbusters. Caliwood, inaugurated in 2008, isn’t just about Colombian film. It’s a global journey through the evolution of cinema. Imagine stepping back in time, surrounded by vintage cameras, the largest and smallest in the world. Think of the whispers of history held within antique phonographs, magic lanterns, and the ghostly flicker of early film projectors. Caliwood houses an impressive collection of these cinematic relics, including pre-cinematic visual entertainment items and a captivating display of vintage film posters. You can practically feel the energy of those pioneering filmmakers who, right here in Cali, dared to dream in moving pictures. The museum even provides a glimpse into the often unseen workings of cinema, showing how the magic happens behind the scenes. Visitors are equipped with headphones, guiding them through the exhibits with detailed narratives. These stories illuminate the history, the machinery, the technical wizardry that brings films to life. Caliwood’s exhibits take you on a chronological journey. You can trace the evolution of film technology, from the earliest cameras to more modern equipment. The museum’s collection includes over a hundred photographic cameras, showcasing the progression of image capture. Remember those carbon arc lamps that lit up theaters in the early 20th century? Caliwood has them. You can learn about the dangers they posed, how the electric current arcing between carbon electrodes created a brilliant light, yet also a fire hazard. After the audio tour, visitors are treated to an old-school film show, featuring classics like “The Big Bad Wolf” (1934) and “Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves” (1944), both black-and-white and silent. Then there’s “Pluto’s Quinpuplets” (1937), complete with sound, offering a different viewing experience compared to modern versions. Caliwood is a celebration of film, a nostalgic trip down memory lane. It’s a testament to Cali’s enduring love affair with cinema, a passion that earned this city its nickname. So, the next time you hear “Caliwood”, remember this place, a vibrant hub where the magic of film comes alive.