Herbert Blache

Who was Herbert Blache?

Herbert Blaché was a British-born American film director, producer and screenwriter, born of a French mother. He directed 56 films between 1912 and 1929.

He was born in London, England. In 1907 he married filmmaking pioneer Alice Guy, head of production with the French Gaumont Film Company. Their marriage meant that Alice had to resign from her position working with Gaumont. Looking for new beginnings, the couple immigrated to New York where Herbert was soon appointed the production manager for Gaumont's operations in the United States. The two struck out on their own in 1910, partnering with George A. Magie in the formation of The Solax Company, the largest pre-Hollywood studio in America. With production facilities for their new company in Flushing, New York, Herbert served as production manager as well as cinematographer and Alice worked as the artistic director, directing many of its releases.