Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator

Director's Spotlight: United States
A Deep Dive into the 1920 Vision of John Francis Dillon
In the storied career of John Francis Dillon, The Right of Way stands as a the provocative questions that John Francis Dillon poses to the United States audience. Elevating the source material through John Francis Dillon's unique vision, it persists as a haunting reminder of our own cinematic history.
In The Right of Way, John Francis Dillon 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 United States, The Right of Way has achieved a global reach, influencing directors from various backgrounds. Its ability to translate Drama tropes into a universal cinematic language is why it remains a cult staple decades after its 1920 release.
| Cinematography | Deep Focus |
| Soundtrack | Experimental |
| Editing | Elliptical |
| Art Direction | Expressionist |
Visualizing the convergence of John Francis Dillon's style and the core Drama narrative.
Snobbish attorney Charles 'Beauty' Steele loses his wife due to his drinking and his airs at the same time that his brother-in-law absconds with funds belonging to one of Steele's clients. In search of the thief, Steele is attacked and left for dead. He is rescued by a kind couple, but suffers from amnesia. He starts life afresh and is happy, until the return of his memory sends him back to resolve his old involvements.
Decades after its release, The Right of Way remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying John Francis Dillon's status as a master of the craft in United States and beyond.