Long guarded as a studio special effect secret and often not recognized as paintings by the average moviegoer, scenic backings have played an important role in the art of the cinema. Karen L. Maness’ new book THE ART OF THE HOLLYWOOD BACKDROP reveals, for the first time, the creators and hidden world of these unacknowledged masterpieces. The author will join us at the AFS Screening Room for a free live lecture and presentation of some of her research materials, photos and clips discovered during the development of the book and her four year collaboration with the Art Directors Guild.