Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator

Director's Spotlight: United States
A Deep Dive into the 1929 Vision of Bert Glennon
The evocative power of Syncopation stems from the unique collaboration between the bold experimentation that has become synonymous with Bert Glennon. Framed by the hauntingly beautiful landscapes of the production, it echoes the profound changes occurring in United States during that era.
In Syncopation, Bert Glennon 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.
To fully appreciate Syncopation, one must consider the cinematic climate of 1929. During this period, United States was undergoing significant artistic shifts, and Bert Glennon was at the forefront of this Music movement, often challenging established norms.
| Cinematography | Handheld |
| Soundtrack | Minimalist |
| Editing | Disjunctive |
| Art Direction | Baroque |
Visualizing the convergence of Bert Glennon's style and the core Music narrative.
This is RKO's first sound musical. It centers on a pair of vaudevillians who are quite close on and off the stage until a dashing millionaire comes around and begins wooing the female partner.
Decades after its release, Syncopation remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying Bert Glennon's status as a master of the craft in United States and beyond.