…and why wouldn’t we have some of our favourite slots without it?
In the mid-19th century, English chemist, Alexander Parkes, developed a new material by dissolving nitrocellulose in a solvent and adding camphor to make it tough and waterproof. This was the earliest version of the first plastic ever invented, which would eventually become patented as celluloid in 1869.
While this plastic had many uses, it was most widely used in the photography and film industries as the lightweight material could replace the heavy plates in the first long exposure cameras. The film reel was created not long after and soon moving pictures astounded audiences.
For over half a century, the film industry exclusively used celluloid, from the first silent masterpieces to the Golden Age of Hollywood and the introduction of the talkies. But it wasn’t without its drawbacks as it was highly flammable and was prone to spontaneously combust at high temperatures, like you would find in front of hot projector bulbs. In the 1930s, studios began to use safety film and the rise of digital cameras in the 1990s and the 2000s brought about the end of film reel altogether.
If this has got you in the mood for vintage films, then you could try out our Silent Movie slot. Bop along to the concert hall piano as you spin five reels on thirty paylines and enjoy seeing the characters from film’s pioneering years. There are four bonuses based on the best movies from the silent era: Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, A Trip to the Moon, A Muddy Romance and Keystone Kops. Spin any of these to play Free Spins with special scatters, wilds and multipliers.
The biggest, and most short-lived, star of the silver screen was James Dean and he comes to life in his very own NetBet slot. Enjoy features which give you free games and multiplied prizes if you win the James Dean Pick Bonus. On the 25 paylines you can spin symbols of a 1949 Mercury coupe (as seen in Rebel Without a Cause), a vintage motorbike and, fittingly, a reel of celluloid film.
Cinema has seen many changes since the invention of moving pictures and today we see films that break new ground every year. The release of Bridesmaids in 2011 marked the rise of female-led comedy and NetBet’s own slot will remind you why it’s so funny, hearing one-liners from the film when you spin. You’ll see all the bridesmaids back together again and if you spin 3 or more of Annie’s cupcakes, you’ll trigger the Wheel Bonus which is bursting with features, boosters and jackpots. With 40 paylines to win, you’re sure to enjoy yourself with this fantastic slot.
Celluloid might not be used in Hollywood any more, but without it the film industry wouldn’t look like it is today. The latest blockbuster wouldn’t be a big hit without the work of a Victorian chemist 150 years ago and some of the best NetBet slots wouldn’t exist.