Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator

Director's Spotlight: United States
A Deep Dive into the 1931 Vision of George Fitzmaurice
Peeling back the layers of George Fitzmaurice's Strangers May Kiss exposes the technical innovation that George Fitzmaurice introduced to the Romance format. Driven by an uncompromising commitment to Romance excellence, it stands as the definitive 1931 statement on Romance identity.
In Strangers May Kiss, George Fitzmaurice 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.
While deeply rooted in United States, Strangers May Kiss has achieved a global reach, influencing directors from various backgrounds. Its ability to translate Romance tropes into a universal cinematic language is why it remains a cult staple decades after its 1931 release.
| Cinematography | Handheld |
| Soundtrack | Minimalist |
| Editing | Disjunctive |
| Art Direction | Baroque |
Visualizing the convergence of George Fitzmaurice's style and the core Romance narrative.
Against her friends wishes, Lisbeth moves to Mexico to live with her lover.
Decades after its release, Strangers May Kiss remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying George Fitzmaurice's status as a master of the craft in United States and beyond.