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Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator
Director's Spotlight: United States
A Deep Dive into the 1920 Vision of Allan Dwan
The brilliance of A Splendid Hazard (1920) is inseparable from the visionary mind of its creator, Allan Dwan. Serving as a mirror to the anxieties of a changing world, it persists as a haunting reminder of our own cinematic history.
In A Splendid Hazard, Allan Dwan 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, Allan Dwan explores the intersection of Drama and United States cultural identity. The meticulous attention to detail suggests a deep-seated commitment to pushing the boundaries of the medium, ensuring that A Splendid Hazard remains a relevant topic of study for Drama enthusiasts.
| Cinematography | Deep Focus |
| Soundtrack | Experimental |
| Editing | Elliptical |
| Art Direction | Expressionist |
Visualizing the convergence of Allan Dwan's style and the core Drama narrative.
Karl Breitman, obsessed with the notion that he is a descendant of Napoleon, is driven to restore the monarchy in France. To accomplish this, he courts Hedda Gobert, who, he has learned, possesses Napoleon's papers. Upon winning Hedda, Breitman steals the documents, which lead him to America and the home of Admiral Killigrew where, the papers allege, the emperor's hidden wealth resides. Breitman locates a treasure map in the Killigrew house, which sends him to Corsica. However, before he can reach the buried riches, he overhears some men mocking him and challenges them to a duel. Wounded, Breitman dies with Hedda, who has lovingly followed him, at his side, taking the secret of the treasure with him.
Decades after its release, A Splendid Hazard remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying Allan Dwan's status as a master of the craft in United States and beyond.