Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator

Director's Spotlight: United States
A Deep Dive into the 1918 Vision of Dell Henderson
The evocative power of My Wife stems from the unique collaboration between the subversive storytelling techniques employed by Dell Henderson in 1918. Synthesizing the best elements of United States and international cinema, it reminds us of the fragility and beauty of the 1918s.
In My Wife, Dell Henderson 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, Dell Henderson 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 My Wife remains a relevant topic of study for cult enthusiasts.
| Cinematography | Static |
| Soundtrack | Minimalist |
| Editing | Slow-Burn |
| Art Direction | Brutalist |
Visualizing the convergence of Dell Henderson's style and the core cult narrative.
To prevent her niece from becoming an old maid, Beatrice Hammond's aunt stipulates in her will that the girl must be married by the age of eighteen or sacrifice a million dollar inheritance. Beatrice is in love with Ronald Farwell, but he has been called to fight against the Germans in France, so Beatrice approaches her guardian, Gerald Eversleigh, with a plan: Gerald will marry her, thus insuring that she will inherit the fortune, but divorce her as soon as Ronald returns. The wedding is staged, and all goes well until Gerald falls in love with his wife. Meanwhile, Ronald falls in love with a French nurse and, upon his return home, offers to pay Gerald to remain married to Beatrice. Gerald happily accepts the offer but refuses the money, and Beatrice discovers that she has loved her husband all along.
Decades after its release, My Wife remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying Dell Henderson's status as a master of the craft in United States and beyond.