- Advertisement - Without George Albert Smith, cinema may never have become the powerhouse form of media it is today. He lived a very eclectic life and unfortunately, due to other large inventions at the time, his pioneering work has often been overlooked. His inventions and innovative attitude he brought into the world of film changed its landscape forever. For this week’s piece on Brighton’s most influential, and forgotten, people we are here to uncover his brilliant work and story.When first released this film pleasantly shocked and surprised viewers. Santa Claus disappears up the chimney…but where did he go?George Albert Smith started his Brighton life in the 1870’s when he moved with his mother following his father’s death. His mother ran a boarding house on Grand Parade and Smith seemingly had a pretty normal upbringing. He rose to local fame in the early 1880’s when his performances as a stage hypnotist captured the imaginations of Brighton. He joined the, now olden sounding,Soc...
