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Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator
Director's Spotlight: United States
A Deep Dive into the 1920 Vision of Edmund Lawrence
As we revisit the 1920 masterpiece What Would You Do?, we are struck by the atmospheric immersion that Edmund Lawrence achieves throughout What Would You Do?. Exploring the nuances of the human condition with Drama flair, it solidifies Edmund Lawrence's reputation as a master of the craft.
In What Would You Do?, Edmund Lawrence 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, Edmund Lawrence 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 What Would You Do? remains a relevant topic of study for Drama enthusiasts.
| Cinematography | Deep Focus |
| Soundtrack | Experimental |
| Editing | Elliptical |
| Art Direction | Expressionist |
Visualizing the convergence of Edmund Lawrence's style and the core Drama narrative.
Discovering that his partner has been selling fake oil stock, Hugh Chilson, realizing that the law will consider him guilty also, flees to South America where he is reported to have committed suicide. Receiving notice of her husband's death, Chilson's wife Claudia marries her old friend Cyrus Brainerd, unaware that he is having an affair with his brother's wife Lily. One day, Curtis is thrown from a horse and is paralyzed, doomed to a life of endless pain. He lies on his bed, calling for death. On the day of the accident, Chilson returns after having made a fortune, but informed of his wife's remarriage, refrains from contacting her. Meanwhile, Claudia, out of pity, places a pistol by Curtis' bed and he takes his life. Upon learning of Chilson's return, Curtis' brother Robert interprets Claudia's act as murder until she silences him by showing him a letter written by Lily to Curtis. Chilson, learning that Claudia is once again free, goes to his wife and the pair are happily reunited.
Decades after its release, What Would You Do? remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying Edmund Lawrence's status as a master of the craft in United States and beyond.