Director's Spotlight
Archivist John
Senior Editor

Director's Spotlight: United States
A Deep Dive into the 1926 Vision of A. Edward Sutherland
Witnessing the stylistic transformation of Romance through We're in the Navy Now reveals the provocative questions that A. Edward Sutherland poses to the United States audience. Exploring the nuances of the human condition with Romance flair, it showcases the power of Romance as a tool for social commentary.
In We're in the Navy Now, A. Edward Sutherland pushes the boundaries of conventional narrative. The film's unique approach to its subject matter has sparked endless debates and interpretations among cinephiles and critics alike.
The visual language of We're in the Navy Now is defined by its use of shadows and framing, a hallmark of A. Edward Sutherland's style. By utilizing a 1926-era palette, the film creates an immersive experience that perfectly complements its Romance themes.
| Cinematography | Handheld |
| Soundtrack | Diegetic |
| Editing | Elliptical |
| Art Direction | Expressionist |
Visualizing the convergence of A. Edward Sutherland's style and the core Romance narrative.
"Stinky" Smith makes off with the prize money when his buddy, "Knockout" Hansen loses a fight with Percival "Sailor" Scruggs. Hansen pursues him him a U.S. Navt recruiting office, and, the next thing they know, both are in the Navy and aboard an overseas transport ship. Madelyn Phillips is on board and Scruggs is the the ship's Master-of-Arms. They overhear a mysterious conversation between Madelyn and the ship's radio officer. Later, Madelun induces the pair to take her off the ship and into a row boat. She disappears and they are picked up by a French ship, which sinks a German U-Boat. When the war ends they learn that Madelyn was an operative of the U.S. Secret Service.
Decades after its release, We're in the Navy Now remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying A. Edward Sutherland's status as a master of the craft in United States and beyond.