Stuff You Should Know Introducing Smell-O-Vision!
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May 4, 2023 Dive into the whimsical world of Smell-O-Vision, a quirky 1960s cinematic experiment that aimed to transport audiences into films with scents. Discover its rise, the ambitious ideas behind it, and the entertaining stories of its ultimate flop. Learn about fascinating historical efforts like the 1939 World's Fair demo and the unique film 'Scent of Mystery.' Explore how this innovative but impractical concept hints at the future of immersive cinema and the challenges of integrating aromas into storytelling, all with a humorous twist.
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First Use of Scent in US Theaters
- The first US movie theater to use scent was the Family Theater in 1908, owned by Roxy Rothafell.
- During a Rose Bowl parade newsreel, he pumped rose oil into the theater.
Scent at the World's Fair
- Hans Laube, a Swiss inventor and osmologist, debuted scent in film at the 1939-40 World's Fair.
- His 35-minute film, "My Dream," featured 32 different scents.
Smell-O-Vision's Rise
- After WWII, TV threatened movie theaters, prompting innovations like Smell-O-Vision.
- Michael Todd Jr. partnered with Hans Laube on Smell-O-Vision.