The Lumieres' scenes of people walking along bridges and downtown quickly became standardized and, indeed, something of an industry standard. Through the middle of the next decade other companies restaged them -- if they did not simply reprint the film with their own logos. The Lumieres' composition remained superior.
This one looks a great deal like it was based on a well known photograph of the era, given the landmarks in the background. What makes this one particularly striking are the people who turn to stare at the camera. The first one has a look of mild outrage as if he finds the violation of his public anonymity offensive.
