Daybill Explained

A daybill is one variety of Australian film poster issued to cinemas at the time of a film's release. A daybill measures approximately 13inchesby30inchesin (byin), however during World War II some daybills measured 10inchesby30inchesin (byin) because it allowed an additional daybill to fit onto the sheet of paper.^[1]

Daybills were folded twice and sold to cinemas for 5 to 10 cents.^[1]

Until the 1970s, most daybills were printed as lithographs. In the 1960s some posters began copying American printing techniques to achieve a 'gloss' finish that suited the photographic images that were becoming prevalent in poster design. Today, daybills are printed on thick glossy paper and are much more durable.

Daybills are sought-after by collectors for their rarity and unique artwork. Some of the more famous daybills include:

• Halloween (John Carpenter, 1978). Features a unique image of villain Michael Myers. Australia was the only country to depict Myers on the poster.
• The Empire Strikes Back (George Lucas, 1980). Features artwork developed in Japan, but considered superior among many collectors.

Notes and References

1. Web site: Australian daybills 1941-1960. Australian Movie Posters. Movie Memorabilia. 7 September 2012.