The Thief of Bagdad (1924)
In the National Film Registry
•
2h 26m
Thief charms princess, battles evil for love. Dazzling silent adventure.
Directed by Raoul Walsh and starring Douglas Fairbanks, The Thief of Bagdad (1924) is a visually stunning spectacle unlike anything audiences at the time had seen before.
The Thief of Bagdad broke new ground in special effects. Innovative techniques brought fantastical creatures and scenarios to life. Fairbanks, a master of physical comedy, performed incredible stunts that were amplified by groundbreaking wirework and trick photography. These dazzling visuals were further enhanced by elaborate sets and costumes, transporting viewers to a magical version of Baghdad.
The film's narrative structure also played with convention. Though following a loose storyline, The Thief of Bagdad prioritized thrilling action sequences and fantastical encounters over a tightly woven plot. This episodic approach, coupled with the film's visual extravagance, established a dreamlike quality that resonated with audiences.
The Thief of Bagdad paved the way for future epics that embraced visual spectacle and incorporated fantastical elements. The film's daring visuals and playful storytelling helped redefine the possibilities of cinema.
Up Next in In the National Film Registry
-
The Wishing Ring, an Idyll of Old Eng...
Expelled son falls for parson's daughter. Love conquers class as he reunites with his Earl father.
Produced during a transitional period in filmmaking, The Wishing Ring, an Idyll of Old England (1914) bridges the gap between theatrical and cinematic storytelling.
While the plot is based on a s...
-
Tol'able David (1921)
Rural youth confronts outlaws, seeking manhood through legal or vengeful action.
Tol'able David, a 1921 silent film directed by Henry King, follows a coming-of-age story set in the rural Appalachians, delving into complex themes of violence, revenge, and masculinity.
The film's experimentation ...
-
Trance and Dance in Bali (1951)
Showcases culture in late 1930's Bali but criticized for omitting context and focusing on spectacle.
Trance and Dance in Bali, a 1951 documentary by Margaret Mead and Gregory Bateson, is a pioneering ethnographic film. It documents a traditional Balinese ritual dance while the filmmakers employ ...
