Changes in film distribution and exhibition Nickelodeons radically changed the modes of distribution and the types of films being made. Around 1903, longer multi-shot films became more prevalent, and this shift brought about important innovations in the distribution of films with the establishment of film exchanges. Film exchanges would buy films from manufacturers and then rent them out to exhibitors. With a steady supply of different films, exhibitors finally had the possibility to open venues, where films were the central attraction. They did not have to worry about finding new audiences because the same audience would return again and again to watch different films. Exhibition practices greatly varied and programs lasted anywhere from ten minutes to an hour and a half or more in length. Often, programs ran continuously and patrons would join a program already in progress when they arrived and stay as long as they liked. While some nickelodeons only showed films, others offered shows that combined films with vaudeville acts or illustrated songs.
Changes in film distribution and exhibition Nickelodeons radically changed the modes of distribution and the types of films being made Around 1903 longer multi-shot films became more prevalent and this shift brought about important innovations in the distribution of films with the establishment of film exchanges Film excha!nges would buy films from manufacturers and then rent them out to exhibitors With a steady supply of different films exhibitors finally had the possibility to open venues where films were the central attraction They did not have to worry about finding new audiences because the same audience would return again and again to watch different films Exhibition practices greatly varied and programs lasted anywhere. from ten minutes to an hour and a half or more in length Often programs ra?n continuously and patrons would join a program already in progress when they arrived and stay as long as they liked While some nickelodeons only showed films others offered shows that combined films with vaudeville acts or illustrated songs