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Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator
Director's Spotlight: United States
A Deep Dive into the 1922 Vision of George Fitzmaurice
Exploring the Romance underpinnings of To Have and to Hold leads us to the uncompromising vision of George Fitzmaurice that defines this Romance masterpiece. Melding the raw energy of United States with a global Romance appeal, it echoes the profound changes occurring in United States during that era.
In To Have and to Hold, 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.
| Cinematography | Handheld |
| Soundtrack | Synth-Heavy |
| Editing | Disjunctive |
| Art Direction | Baroque |
Visualizing the convergence of George Fitzmaurice's style and the core Romance narrative.
Trying to escape marriage to the hateful Lord Carnal, Jocelyn Leigh joins her maid on a "bride ship" bound for the American colonies. She is shocked by the conditions she finds in Virginia, and decides to marry Capt. Ralph Percy for her protection, eventually she comes to love him. Meanwhile, Carnal finds Jocelyn and has Percy imprisoned. Percy escapes and rescues Jocelyn from Carnal's departing ship but takes Carnal along in their small boat. The three run into a violent storm and are driven to a pirates' camp. Through Percy's courage they escape but are taken to England, where Carnal again causes Percy's imprisonment and is promised Jocelyn's hand. Percy escapes with the help of Lord Buckingham, defeats Carnal in a duel, and is reunited with Jocelyn.
Decades after its release, To Have and to Hold 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.