Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator

Director's Spotlight: United States
A Deep Dive into the 1919 Vision of Elmer Clifton
The cult DNA of Turning the Tables is a reflection of United States's the historical context that Elmer Clifton weaves into the cult fabric. Challenging the viewer to find meaning in the cult shadows, it transcends regional boundaries to tell a universal story.
In Turning the Tables, Elmer Clifton 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.
| Cinematography | Handheld |
| Soundtrack | Minimalist |
| Editing | Disjunctive |
| Art Direction | Baroque |
Visualizing the convergence of Elmer Clifton's style and the core cult narrative.
Doris Pennington is committed to an insane asylum by her aunt, who hopes to take over Doris's fortune. Upon arrival at the asylum, however, Doris convinces the staff that the nurse who accompanies her is actually the patient and she the nurse.
Decades after its release, Turning the Tables remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying Elmer Clifton's status as a master of the craft in United States and beyond.