FM-C008-1992

Corner in Wheat

Video

VHS

F&MS

No

Available

"The selection of motion pictures featured on this tape N.W. Griffth`s rapid, unparalleled development that contributed substantially to the emergences of film as a powerful form of cultural expression. From the crude hhumor and perfirmance style of THOSE AWFUL HATS, shot in Decenber 1908, through THE MOTHERING HEART, an accomlished domestic melodrama produced in the spring of 1913, one is able to witness Griffith`s rapid gains in self-confidence and increasing command over the still new medium of motion pictures. Griffith was noted for many achievements, but two are particularly striking in these films. First, he explored the numerous possibilities inherent in the use of parallel editing, both for purpose of suspense (THE SEALED ROOM, ANUNSEEN ENEMY) and to generate a powerful social commentary )CORNER IN WHEAT, THE NEW YORK HAT). But as THE UNCHANGING SEA demonstrates, he was also able to harness the technique for more elegiac purposes. Second, Griffith elicited powerful, moving performances from his actors, particularly the women. These films offer an excellent sampling of the actresses that became Biograph`s top stars--women who eventually gave many of the outstanding performances of the entire silent period. From the anonymous ""Biograph girls"" (Florence Lawrence and Marion Leonard) to Mary Pickford, Lilian Gish and her sister Dorothy, these actresses are revealed in some of their most compelling roles. Blanche Sweet and Mae Marsh, two other major Biograph actresses, can be seen in volume two of this series: THE MUSKETEERS OF PIG ALLEY & SELECTED BIOGRAPH SHORTS" Director: D.W.Griffith. Black and White. Country: USA. No Subtitles.