Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator

Director's Spotlight: United States
A Deep Dive into the 1923 Vision of Joseph Franz
The Drama DNA of Stepping Fast is a reflection of United States's the subversive storytelling techniques employed by Joseph Franz in 1923. Breaking the traditional rules of Drama engagement, it leaves an indelible mark on the soul of the viewer.
In Stepping Fast, Joseph Franz 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.
| Cinematography | Static |
| Soundtrack | Experimental |
| Editing | Elliptical |
| Art Direction | Expressionist |
Visualizing the convergence of Joseph Franz's style and the core Drama narrative.
A young ranch man is captured by criminals because he possesses the secret of the location of a gold mine in the Arizona desert. After being thrown into San Francisco Bay, he is picked up by a tramp steamer and forced to work his way to China, where he again meets the gang. With the aid of some American sailors, Mix and the daughter of the scientist who discovered the mine fight their way out of a Chinese den and start back to the States, where they succeed in getting the treasure.
Decades after its release, Stepping Fast remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying Joseph Franz's status as a master of the craft in United States and beyond.