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D.W. Griffith: Father Of Film

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Besides standing on it's own as an outstanding biography, "Father of Film" is also an important study of the birth of the film industry. Near the end of the film, several people make on-screen appearances denying that Griffith was really responsible for some of the techniques that made him a legend. Regardless of the dispute, it is clear that the film industry would not be the same without Griffith.

The film traces Griffith's humble beginnings in a small Kentucky town all the way to his tragic, lonely end. Through it all we see that Griffith was, though often frustrated by circumstances beyond his control, a man driven to excellence. His desire is evident in each film clip we see from his first short films all the way to his masterpieces such as "Birth of a Nation" and "Way Down East." Griffith had the ability that few directors have today, the ability to convey strong, powerful feelings through believable characters on-screen. You must remember also that the majority of Griffith's story-telling was done during the silent era. The actors had to act. And someone had to direct them.

So many wonderful behind-the-scenes stories appear throughout the film: the beginnings of Griffith's career, the lives of the actors, and the unexpected problems that occurred during the filming of these classics. All of it is fascinating. The key to any good documentary is: Does it make you want to know more about the subject? In this case, does it make you want to see these old, nearly forgotten silent films? Absolutely.

This set of three videos is put together by Kevin Brownlow ('The Parade's Gone By') and David Gill, two of the best silent film historians I have ever come across.They have done similar documentaries on Chaplin (Unknown Chaplin), Keaton (A Hard Act to Follow) and Lloyd (The Third Genius). They certainly know what they're talking about and I found this to be one of the most fascinating films I have ever seen. It contains a great deal of information about the man himself from his farming childhood to his travels around the country with his wife and a camera, through to his funeral with people such as Mary Pickford and Lillian Gish present. Every detail was heavily backed up with photographs and extensive film material. Lillian Gish is one of the many people who are interviewed for it and is a perfect introduction to Griffith and his films. It details the filming techniques that have shaped the film industry and how he developed them. I really enjoyed it and it is a necessity for anyone who likes Griffith, Lillian Gish or silent films, it is wonderfully put together and every scene is necessary to bring to justice D.W. Griffith- The Father of Film.

Most film documentaries feature film clips and interviews and this one follows the tradition. Just h-o-w Mr. Griffith created his masterpieces and interviews from those who knew and worked with him highlight this tribute. His rise, fall and legacy are documented with respect for the subject and what he left behind. Another fine portrait from Messrs. Brownlow and Gill, who have been of inestimable value in documenting the heritage of silent films.

As the CEO of Biograph, the film company that D. W. Griffith started at, this is a wonderful series. It gives you details that no other video could.