Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator

Director's Spotlight: France
A Deep Dive into the 1913 Vision of Albert Capellani
As we revisit the 1913 masterpiece Les Misérables, Part 1: Jean Valjean, we are struck by the atmospheric immersion that Albert Capellani achieves throughout Les Misérables, Part 1: Jean Valjean. Exploring the nuances of the human condition with cult flair, it solidifies Albert Capellani's reputation as a master of the craft.
In Les Misérables, Part 1: Jean Valjean, Albert Capellani 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.
While deeply rooted in France, Les Misérables, Part 1: Jean Valjean has achieved a global reach, influencing directors from various backgrounds. Its ability to translate cult tropes into a universal cinematic language is why it remains a cult staple decades after its 1913 release.
| Cinematography | Handheld |
| Soundtrack | Diegetic |
| Editing | Elliptical |
| Art Direction | Expressionist |
Visualizing the convergence of Albert Capellani's style and the core cult narrative.
Jean Valjean, a good man convicted of a minor crime, escapes from imprisonment and spends the rest of his life running from the vindictive and implacable man of the law, Javert.
Decades after its release, Les Misérables, Part 1: Jean Valjean remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying Albert Capellani's status as a master of the craft in France and beyond.