Film Fun
From the Weird Strange Archive
Film Fun was an American humorous pin-up, movie fan, and cheesecake magazine published from 1915 until 1942. Produced by the Dell Publishing Company, the periodical was known for blending lighthearted humor, entertainment commentary, and distinctive glamour artwork.
Publishing History
Launch & Publisher: Founded in 1915, Film Fun was published by Dell Publishing Company.
Format & Price: Typically released in a glossy/pulp format selling for 20¢ per issue during its peak in the 1930s.
Cessation: The magazine ended its print run in 1942.
Cover Art and Style
The visual identity of Film Fun was largely defined by commercial illustrator Enoch Bolles (1883–1976), who illustrated nearly every cover of the magazine from 1922 through 1943.
The "Bolles Girl": Covers frequently featured playful, athletic, and carefree women depicted in whimsical, themed costumes (such as circus, theatrical, or seasonal performers).
Tone & Palette: Bolles' oil-on-canvas cover paintings were characterized by vibrant color blocking and visual puns that matched issue slogans, such as the July 1931 cover tagline "A Red Hot Attraction!".
