Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator

Director's Spotlight: United States
A Deep Dive into the 1921 Vision of Lois Weber
Deciphering the layers of What Do Men Want? (1921) reveals the complex thematic architecture established by Lois Weber. Utilizing a 1921-specific aesthetic that remains timeless, it stands as the definitive 1921 statement on Drama identity.
In What Do Men Want?, Lois Weber 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.
To fully appreciate What Do Men Want?, one must consider the cinematic climate of 1921. During this period, United States was undergoing significant artistic shifts, and Lois Weber was at the forefront of this Drama movement, often challenging established norms.
| Cinematography | Static |
| Soundtrack | Experimental |
| Editing | Elliptical |
| Art Direction | Expressionist |
Visualizing the convergence of Lois Weber's style and the core Drama narrative.
An inventor starts a family with his childhood sweetheart, but after he becomes successful, he becomes restless and takes up with another woman. However, the woman's true nature is revealed, he realizes his mistake.
Decades after its release, What Do Men Want? remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying Lois Weber's status as a master of the craft in United States and beyond.