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Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator
Director's Spotlight: United States
A Deep Dive into the 1919 Vision of Lorimer Johnston
The evocative power of Devil McCare stems from the unique collaboration between the bold experimentation that has become synonymous with Lorimer Johnston. Framed by the hauntingly beautiful landscapes of the production, it echoes the profound changes occurring in United States during that era.
In Devil McCare, Lorimer Johnston 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 | Invisible |
| Art Direction | Kitsch |
Visualizing the convergence of Lorimer Johnston's style and the core cult narrative.
Mary Archer, a manicurist in a big city, becomes infatuated with Western rancher Devil McCare. He also falls for her, to the dismay of the wealthy society girls who try to tempt him. Mary, won over by Devil's description of life on the range, follows him to Sour Lake, where she becomes the manicurist in the hotel and the idol of Sour Lake, outshining Devil's ward Vera. After some adventures, including a fight between Devil and Parson Brown over Mary, Devil and Mary find happiness together.
Decades after its release, Devil McCare remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying Lorimer Johnston's status as a master of the craft in United States and beyond.