Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator

Director's Spotlight: France
A Deep Dive into the 1923 Vision of Abel Gance
The thematic gravity of The Wheel (1923) is rooted in the artistic risks taken by Abel Gance that eventually paid off. Defining a new era of France artistic expression, it demands to be seen by anyone who cares about the art of film.
In The Wheel, Abel Gance 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.
In this work, Abel Gance explores the intersection of Drama and France cultural identity. The meticulous attention to detail suggests a deep-seated commitment to pushing the boundaries of the medium, ensuring that The Wheel remains a relevant topic of study for Drama enthusiasts.
| Cinematography | High-Contrast |
| Soundtrack | Orchestral |
| Editing | Invisible |
| Art Direction | Kitsch |
Visualizing the convergence of Abel Gance's style and the core Drama narrative.
A railway engineer adopts a young girl orphaned by a train crash. Years later when she starts getting suitors, he grapples with whether or not to tell her the truth about her parentage.
Decades after its release, The Wheel remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying Abel Gance's status as a master of the craft in France and beyond.