Why is cinema called the 7th art?

Answer 1

Cinema is referred to as the "7th art" because it was classified as such by Ricciotto Canudo in his 1911 manifesto, "The Birth of the Sixth Art." He recognized cinema as a synthesis of various artistic forms, including literature, painting, sculpture, music, and dance, thus elevating it to a distinct artistic realm. This classification highlights cinema's unique ability to combine visual and auditory elements to create a new, immersive experience for audiences. The "7th art" designation emphasizes the cultural and aesthetic significance of film in the broader landscape of the arts.