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Before Macintosh: The Apple Lisa

In an era dominated by sleek devices and cutting-edge technology, “Before Macintosh: The Apple Lisa” spotlights a revolutionary yet largely unrecognized milestone in computing history. With insights from former Apple employees, dealers, and enthusiasts, this film paints a vivid picture of a time when the Apple Lisa was at the forefront of technological innovation. Despite its eventual cancellation, the Lisa was highly influential.

  • David Greelish
    Director
  • David Greelish
    Writer
  • David Greelish
    Producer
  • Project Type:
    Documentary, Feature
  • Genres:
    History, Computers, Technology, Culture
  • Runtime:
    1 hour 48 minutes
  • Completion Date:
    January 23, 2024
  • Production Budget:
    25,000 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital, 1080p
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    No
Distribution Information
  • Classic Computing Media
    Distributor
    Country: United States
    Rights: All Rights, Internet, Video on Demand, Video / Disc
Director Biography - David Greelish

Classic Computing began as the Historical Computer Society, publishing a fanzine named, "Historically Brewed." The HCS was an online, international user group for fans of computer history, and "HB" was the newsletter communications tool. Ultimately, nine issues of "HB" were printed and distributed, with a tenth issue never completed, to be called, "Classic Computing." In 2011, I ran a successful Kickstarter campaign and published all ten issues into one book, including my story. In 1999, I began covering the hobby and writing articles on my website classiccomputing.com. I've written articles, conducted interviews and created and participated in numerous podcasts. I have also conducted both audio and written interviews with notable people in the industry, like: Ed Roberts, John Sculley, Alan Kay and more. I have also presented at numerous vintage computing conventions.

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

I am a Computer Historian and it all started with my Apple Lisa. I also love documentaries... of all kinds! I was involved in a documentary a few years ago where I created a short to introduce the basics of the history of the computer, and I enjoyed making that short very much. There had not been a documentary about the Lisa, and it is an important milestone in personal computing history. My life had been leading up to the creation of this film.