Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator

Director's Spotlight: United States
A Deep Dive into the 1932 Vision of Joseph Henabery
The Short DNA of Then Came the Yawn is a reflection of United States's the subversive storytelling techniques employed by Joseph Henabery in 1932. Breaking the traditional rules of Short engagement, it leaves an indelible mark on the soul of the viewer.
In Then Came the Yawn, Joseph Henabery 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 | Handheld |
| Soundtrack | Experimental |
| Editing | Elliptical |
| Art Direction | Expressionist |
Visualizing the convergence of Joseph Henabery's style and the core Short narrative.
Parody trailers are a dime-a-dozen now but they were a real novelty when this short from Educational Pictures ("The spice of the program!") appeared in movie houses. Its satire of "coming attractions" hyperbole encompasses hillbillies singing "She'll Be Comin' Round the Mountain" in the manner of synagogue cantors and a gag set in the Frozen North. - Dennis Harvey
Decades after its release, Then Came the Yawn remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying Joseph Henabery's status as a master of the craft in United States and beyond.