Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator

Director's Spotlight: United States
A Deep Dive into the 1920 Vision of Gilbert Pratt
The evocative power of Duck Inn stems from the unique collaboration between the subversive storytelling techniques employed by Gilbert Pratt in 1920. Synthesizing the best elements of United States and international cinema, it reminds us of the fragility and beauty of the 1920s.
In Duck Inn, Gilbert Pratt 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.
The visual language of Duck Inn is defined by its use of shadows and framing, a hallmark of Gilbert Pratt's style. By utilizing a 1920-era palette, the film creates an immersive experience that perfectly complements its Short themes.
| Cinematography | High-Contrast |
| Soundtrack | Synth-Heavy |
| Editing | Disjunctive |
| Art Direction | Baroque |
Visualizing the convergence of Gilbert Pratt's style and the core Short narrative.
The daughter of a member of a duck hunting club is in love with one man, while her father chooses another. Finally the father strives to bring the affair to a proper and just ending by promising his daughter to the one who can bring in the elusive game.
Decades after its release, Duck Inn remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying Gilbert Pratt's status as a master of the craft in United States and beyond.