Intolerance (1916)
In the National Film Registry
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2h 56m
D.W. Griffith's 1916 epic, Intolerance, stands as a cornerstone of cinema. While Griffith was a major figure in early cinema, Intolerance pushed boundaries with its narrative structure.
The film weaves together four distinct stories set in different historical periods: a tale of modern social injustice, the persecution of Jesus Christ, the fall of Babylonian civilization, and the St. Bartholomew's Day Massacre in 16th century France. Through innovative editing techniques, Griffith intercuts these narratives, creating a powerful thematic tapestry that explores the universality of intolerance throughout history.
Intolerance's ambition extended beyond narrative. Griffith employed a variety of visual effects, including iris shots, tinting, and multiple exposures, to create a heightened emotional experience. The film's sets were massive and meticulously detailed, transporting viewers to each historical period.
Intolerance's sheer scale and visual innovation solidified its place as a groundbreaking experiment in cinematic storytelling. While some of Griffith's thematic choices haven't aged well, the film's technical and narrative daring continue to inspire filmmakers today.
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