Lobby Cards

A great selection of Original movie stills, lobby cards and front-of-house stills, used to promote films in cinemas. These photos were usually displayed at the entrance to theaters when films were released on the big screen, showing key scenes, allowing passers-by to appreciate the general mood of the film. The ancestor of the trailer!

WUTHERING HEIGHTS French Lobby Cards x4 - 9x12 in. - 1939/R1970 - William Wyler, Laurence Olivier

25,00 €

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WHAT IS A LOBBY CARD ?

A lobby card is a small-format printed image (usually 8"x10" or 11"x14" in USA) used to promote a film in movie theater lobbies. Unlike posters, lobby cards are often presented in a series of 8, each depicting a different scene from the film, an important character, or a key moment in the plot. They are designed to give viewers a visual preview of the film before entering the theater. These photos were particularly popular between the 1920s and 1980s, especially in the United States, where they were displayed in the "lobby" of movie theaters (hence their name). Their primary function is advertising: they serve to attract the audience's attention, create a mood, and generate interest in the film. They highlight stars, sets, action scenes, or romantic moments, depending on the genre of the film. We could talk about motionless trailers, displayed at the entrance to movie theaters to inform and attract viewers.

Why collecting Lobby Cards is great ?

Why Collect Movie Photos Beyond their promotional use, lobby cards have now become sought-after collectibles. Their rarity, vintage aesthetic, and direct connection to the history of cinema make them sought-after pieces by film buffs, historians, and collectors. Certain series, particularly those related to cult films or famous actors, can be very valuable. Furthermore, they are often printed in vibrant colors with unique graphic designs, which enhances their visual appeal. In short, the movie photo or lobby card is a visual promotional tool used in theaters to present a film. Today, it is also a valuable testament to the history of cinema and a collectible imbued with nostalgia and cultural value.