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First Talking Film Made in Palestine

December 30, 1928
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(Jewish Telegraphic Agency)

The first talking film to be made in Palestine was taken here by the Fox Travelling Company. The film, called “Bethlehem Yesterday, Jerusalem Today,” was taken in Bethlehem and in Jerusalem, where David’s Citadel was photographed. The Jerusalem police band paraded before the camera and their music was recorded by the movietone.

Street scenes in Bethlehem were taken. Music by Rudolph Friml, composer of the “Vagabond King” and “Rose Marie,” was introduced into the sound picture.

The company proceeded to Egypt. They will later go to India and China, where additional films will be made.

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