The Blue Bird (1918)
In the National Film Registry
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1h 20m
Two poor children embark on a magical quest guided by a fairy to find the bluebird of happiness.
The Blue Bird, a 1918 silent fantasy film directed by Maurice Tourneur, adapts and infuses a popular stage play with innovative techniques that bridge the gap between theatrical tradition and cinematic possibility.
Large-scale sets and fantastical costumes transport viewers to dreamlike landscapes – the Land of Memory, the Palace of Night. Tourneur utilizes innovative special effects for the era, like double exposure and animation, to bring these fantastical realms to life. The film seamlessly blends live-action scenes with theatrical elements, with actors occasionally striking dramatic poses reminiscent of the stage.
The Blue Bird's narrative itself delves into the realm of the fantastical. It follows two children on a magical quest for the elusive Bluebird of Happiness, encountering personified objects and emotions along the way. This exploration of intangible concepts through a fantastical lens reflects the artistic movements of the time, particularly Symbolism.
The Blue Bird's willingness to experiment with form and content places it at the forefront of cinematic innovation. It paves the way for future filmmakers to explore the expressive potential of fantasy and symbolism within the cinematic medium.
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