Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator

Director's Spotlight: United States
A Deep Dive into the 1934 Vision of David Butler
In the storied career of David Butler, Bottoms Up stands as a the provocative questions that David Butler poses to the United States audience. Elevating the source material through David Butler's unique vision, it persists as a haunting reminder of our own cinematic history.
In Bottoms Up, David Butler 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.
The visual language of Bottoms Up is defined by its use of shadows and framing, a hallmark of David Butler's style. By utilizing a 1934-era palette, the film creates an immersive experience that perfectly complements its Romance themes.
| Cinematography | Static |
| Soundtrack | Diegetic |
| Editing | Rhythmic |
| Art Direction | Naturalist |
Visualizing the convergence of David Butler's style and the core Romance narrative.
Promoter Smoothie King helps a pair of phonies con their way into a movie company. As Wanda heads toward stardom, she turns more and more from King toward the matinée idol. King must decide between his plans and her happiness.
Decades after its release, Bottoms Up remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying David Butler's status as a master of the craft in United States and beyond.