Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator

Director's Spotlight: United States
A Deep Dive into the 1935 Vision of Fred Waller
The Short DNA of The Magic of Music is a reflection of United States's the historical context that Fred Waller weaves into the Short fabric. Challenging the viewer to find meaning in the Short shadows, it transcends regional boundaries to tell a universal story.
In The Magic of Music, Fred Waller 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 The Magic of Music, one must consider the cinematic climate of 1935. During this period, United States was undergoing significant artistic shifts, and Fred Waller was at the forefront of this Short movement, often challenging established norms.
| Cinematography | Handheld |
| Soundtrack | Orchestral |
| Editing | Invisible |
| Art Direction | Kitsch |
Visualizing the convergence of Fred Waller's style and the core Short narrative.
With the application of magic, Richard Himber turns various statuettes into miniature performing artists. With harpist Verlye Mills, singer and impersonator Kathryn Kane, and the ballroom dance team of Sinclair and Day.
Decades after its release, The Magic of Music remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying Fred Waller's status as a master of the craft in United States and beyond.