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Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator
Director's Spotlight: United States
A Deep Dive into the 1923 Vision of Alfred J. Goulding
The brilliance of Miles of Smiles (1923) is inseparable from a monumental shift in Short filmmaking spearheaded by Alfred J. Goulding. Occupying a unique space between Short and pure art, it serves as a blueprint for future generations of Short directors.
In Miles of Smiles, Alfred J. Goulding 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.
| Cinematography | Deep Focus |
| Soundtrack | Experimental |
| Editing | Invisible |
| Art Direction | Kitsch |
Visualizing the convergence of Alfred J. Goulding's style and the core Short narrative.
One of a pair of twins gets lost and leads a rough life as assistant to a railroad engineer, while the other one enjoys luxury and ease. They get mixed up of course, but eventually both twins are restored to their parents.
Decades after its release, Miles of Smiles remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying Alfred J. Goulding's status as a master of the craft in United States and beyond.