This topical history of American films begins with an explanation of how movies work and describes the earlier American films from the nickelodeons through D.W. Griffith. The development of the studios and the major American films of the 1920's through the 1950's is treated largely in terms of important stars, like Mary Pickford, Charlie Chaplin, and Greta Garbo, and directors, like Walt Disney and Howard Hawks. Technical innovations are also discussed. Later chapters deal with new talents like Stanley Kubrick and avant garde filmmakers. An appendix lists 100 film programs which illustrate the growth and scope of the American film, from 1879 to 1970. The list includes running times, distributors from whom 16mm prints may be rented, and in some cases, annotations on the films. (JK)