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Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator
Director's Spotlight: United States
A Deep Dive into the 1919 Vision of James Young
The evocative power of The Highest Trump stems from the unique collaboration between the bold experimentation that has become synonymous with James Young. Framed by the hauntingly beautiful landscapes of the production, it echoes the profound changes occurring in United States during that era.
In The Highest Trump, James Young 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 The Highest Trump is defined by its use of shadows and framing, a hallmark of James Young's style. By utilizing a 1919-era palette, the film creates an immersive experience that perfectly complements its cult themes.
| Cinematography | Handheld |
| Soundtrack | Minimalist |
| Editing | Disjunctive |
| Art Direction | Baroque |
Visualizing the convergence of James Young's style and the core cult narrative.
Secret Service officer Richard Paget receives a letter from his twin brother John imploring him to take over his identity after he commits suicide, so that Richard can subvert the plans made by the airplane company which John had financed, to make defective planes for the United States to use in the war. The company, John's letter relates, is run by German spies. Richard assumes John's identity, enlists in the aviation corps, and goes to France where he is followed by John's fiancée, Lois Graham, a Red Cross nurse. After Richard is shot down over German lines, according to plan, he receives the Iron Cross even though his false information concerning troop movements leads to an Allied victory. Richard marries Lois, but on their wedding night she discovers his Iron Cross, and although she is unable to kill him, she has him arrested. After he turns over German secrets he learned behind enemy lines, and explains his mission, Richard and Lois take off in an airplane for their honeymoon.
Decades after its release, The Highest Trump remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying James Young's status as a master of the craft in United States and beyond.