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Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator
Director's Spotlight: United States
A Deep Dive into the 1923 Vision of John Griffith Wray
Exploring the Western underpinnings of Soul of the Beast leads us to the stylistic boundaries pushed by John Griffith Wray during the production. Through a lens of existential fatalism and Western tropes, it continues to spark endless debates among critics and cinephiles alike.
In Soul of the Beast, John Griffith Wray 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 Soul of the Beast is defined by its use of shadows and framing, a hallmark of John Griffith Wray's style. By utilizing a 1923-era palette, the film creates an immersive experience that perfectly complements its Western themes.
| Cinematography | Static |
| Soundtrack | Experimental |
| Editing | Invisible |
| Art Direction | Kitsch |
Visualizing the convergence of John Griffith Wray's style and the core Western narrative.
Ruth runs away from an abusive stepfather, who owns a circus, and takes the circus' trained elephant--her only friend--with her. She winds up in a Canadian logging camp and meets Paul, the enemy of the town bully, who also falls for Ruth.
Decades after its release, Soul of the Beast remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying John Griffith Wray's status as a master of the craft in United States and beyond.