The Life and Death of 9413, a Hollywood Extra (1927)
In the National Film Registry
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13m
Dreamy hopeful numbered by Hollywood, crushed, finds solace beyond studio gates.
The Life and Death of 9413, a Hollywood Extra (1927), directed by Robert Florey and Slavko Vorkapić, dismantles the conventions of Hollywood glamor, instead portraying the harsh realities faced by aspiring actors. It follows a hopeful newcomer who gets crushed by the dehumanizing machinery of the studio system. His dreams of stardom are reduced to a mere number – 9413 – branded on his forehead.
Florey and Vorkapić create a nightmarish atmosphere with a low budget and innovative techniques. Cardboard cutouts and manipulated shadows evoke the artificiality of Hollywood. Exaggerated sets and distorted perspectives heighten the protagonist's alienation. The film's expressionistic style draws inspiration from European movements, particularly German Expressionism.
The Life and Death of 9413's impact on American cinema is significant. This short film challenged the celebratory portrayal of Hollywood and paved the way for more critical examinations of the industry. It also influenced the development of American avant-garde filmmaking, demonstrating the power of experimentation with form and narrative.
Beyond its historical significance, the film's enduring power lies in its timeless themes. It critiques the dehumanizing aspects of ambition and the crushing weight of disappointment. The protagonist's struggle for recognition resonates with anyone who has ever felt lost in a system that prioritizes profit over humanity.
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