Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator

Director's Spotlight: France
A Deep Dive into the 1929 Vision of Jean Dréville
Exploring the Documentary underpinnings of Autour de l'argent leads us to the uncompromising vision of Jean Dréville that defines this Documentary masterpiece. Melding the raw energy of France with a global Documentary appeal, it echoes the profound changes occurring in France during that era.
In Autour de l'argent, Jean Dréville 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 France, Autour de l'argent has achieved a global reach, influencing directors from various backgrounds. Its ability to translate Documentary tropes into a universal cinematic language is why it remains a cult staple decades after its 1929 release.
| Cinematography | Handheld |
| Soundtrack | Orchestral |
| Editing | Invisible |
| Art Direction | Kitsch |
Visualizing the convergence of Jean Dréville's style and the core Documentary narrative.
A documentary about the making of L'argent, the epic silent film directed by Marcel L'Herbier. The film shows the details of many of the more complicated moving camera shots.
Decades after its release, Autour de l'argent remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying Jean Dréville's status as a master of the craft in France and beyond.