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Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator
Director's Spotlight: United States
A Deep Dive into the 1922 Vision of Harold Beaudine
The thematic gravity of 'Tis the Bull (1922) is rooted in the historical context that Harold Beaudine weaves into the Short fabric. Synthesizing the best elements of United States and international cinema, it highlights the importance of independent voices in United States.
In 'Tis the Bull, Harold Beaudine 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 'Tis the Bull, one must consider the cinematic climate of 1922. During this period, United States was undergoing significant artistic shifts, and Harold Beaudine was at the forefront of this Short movement, often challenging established norms.
| Cinematography | Handheld |
| Soundtrack | Minimalist |
| Editing | Disjunctive |
| Art Direction | Baroque |
Visualizing the convergence of Harold Beaudine's style and the core Short narrative.
Bobby is introduced to "She" as America's greatest bullfighter. Mexico's greatest bullfighter obligingly fixes up a fight for Bobby, whose earnest attempts to vamoose the country are foiled by Mexican and American soldiers at the border. A fake bull is obtained and Bobby enters the ring with confidence and pep. A real bull makes its appearance, and while Bobby is proving himself a better runner than a fighter, the Mexican maid falls into the arms of his rival. The bull then considerately removes Bobby from the vicinity and shoves him across the border into Texas, where Bobby said he had killed so many bulls "that all the calves in Texas are orphans."
Decades after its release, 'Tis the Bull remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying Harold Beaudine's status as a master of the craft in United States and beyond.