Director's Spotlight
Archivist John
Senior Editor

Director's Spotlight: United States
A Deep Dive into the 1916 Vision of Arthur Berthelet
As we revisit the 1916 masterpiece The Havoc, we are struck by the meticulous attention to detail that Arthur Berthelet applied to every frame. Anchored by a narrative that is both personal and universal, it bridges the gap between traditional cult and contemporary vision.
In The Havoc, Arthur Berthelet 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, Arthur Berthelet explores the intersection of cult and United States cultural identity. The meticulous attention to detail suggests a deep-seated commitment to pushing the boundaries of the medium, ensuring that The Havoc remains a relevant topic of study for cult enthusiasts.
| Cinematography | Static |
| Soundtrack | Orchestral |
| Editing | Slow-Burn |
| Art Direction | Brutalist |
Visualizing the convergence of Arthur Berthelet's style and the core cult narrative.
Richard Craig and Paul Hessert, who work in the same office, are great chums. Both are in love, however, with the stenographer. Craig is successful in winning her heart and they are married. The rivalry does not break the friendship of the two men. Instead Craig is so happy in his new home he invites Hessert to come and live with them. Craig becomes engrossed in his work and fails to see that his wife is lonesome. He stays away from home more and more in the evening and Mrs. Craig is thrown much to the society of Hessert. Finally, a love springs up between the two. Craig is called away from the city on business and his wife finally yields to Hessert's importunities. Craig returns unexpectedly and finds the two together. The wife confesses her love for Hessert and tells her husband to shoot them. He, however, calmly tells her that he will get a divorce so that she can marry Hessert, if they will consent to let him live in the house under the same condition as Hessert had. They agree. Craig then sets about to win back the love of his former wife. He promotes Hessert in the office and throws temptation in his way, believing he will prove himself a scoundrel. Hessert finally steals a large amount of money and is about to flee from the country. Craig tells the woman of his theft but she will not believe it. Just at the moment, however, Hessert enters the house and when confronted by Craig, confesses his guilt. Instead of having him arrested, Craig tells him to go and never to show up again. The wife is overwhelmed with remorse and asks Craig what she can do to atone. He takes her back to the office as his stenographer.
Decades after its release, The Havoc remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying Arthur Berthelet's status as a master of the craft in United States and beyond.