Laura Bayley
Laura Eugenia Bayley (4 February 1862 – 25 October 1938) was a British actress and filmmaker, active in the Brighton School of early cinema pioneers. Born in Ramsgate, Bayley performed onstage in Victorian burlesques, revues, and pantomimes, often with her three sisters. After marrying the showman George Albert Smith, she entered the world of early experiments with motion picture film; she played main roles in many of the most important films Smith made between 1897 and 1903, including The Kiss in the Tunnel (1899) and Mary Jane's Mishap (1903). Behind the camera, Bayley likely played a significant hand in the creative development of Smith's fiction films, and may have directed some of those currently credited to him. She also directed and supervised numerous other films on her own, including a series for an early show-at-home projector design. Film historians have highlighted her prolific career as a film performer as well as the creative talent she brought to filmmaking.
The Kiss in the Tunnel
as Wife (as Mrs. George Albert Smith)Produced and directed by George Albert Smith, the film shows a couple sharing a brief kiss as...
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The X-Ray Fiend
as WomanA romantic couple are transformed into skeletons via X-Rays. The film combines two very recent...
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Santa Claus
as uncreditedSanta arrives at a house on Christmas Eve to deliver his presents for the children.
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Let Me Dream Again
as Young womanPossibly the first film to utilize the technique of focus pulling. A man kisses a beautiful and...
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Mary Jane's Mishap
as Mary JaneMary Jane tries to light the oven. When she's unsuccessful, she plays around, getting black boot...
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The Old Maid's Valentine
as Miss PimpleAn old spinster receives an unexpected Valentine's letter.
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The Death of Poor Joe
as JoeA scene from Charles Dickens' Bleak House.
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Two Clowns
as Female clownA male and female clown drink, smoke, and flirt in this early Kinemacolor short.
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