The Wishing Ring, an Idyll of Old England (1914)
In the National Film Registry
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59m
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 stage play, director Maurice Tourneur utilizes the camera's mobility to create scenes that wouldn't be possible on stage. This includes establishing shots of the English countryside and close-ups that emphasize character emotions. The film also experiments with editing techniques, with some scenes employing fast-paced cuts to depict moments of action or excitement.
However, The Wishing Ring doesn't fully abandon its theatrical roots. The acting style leans towards the broad and expressive, reflecting the stage traditions of the time. Sets often resemble elaborately painted backdrops, further blurring the line between theatrical performance and filmed narrative.
The Wishing Ring's significance lies in its exploration of the evolving cinematic language. It represents a moment where filmmakers were pushing the boundaries of storytelling, embracing the camera's unique capabilities while still drawing on established theatrical conventions. This experimentation paved the way for a more dynamic and expressive form of filmmaking.
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