Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator

Director's Spotlight: United States
A Deep Dive into the 1932 Vision of Mannie Davis
Witnessing the stylistic transformation of Animation through Opening Night reveals the provocative questions that Mannie Davis poses to the United States audience. Exploring the nuances of the human condition with Animation flair, it showcases the power of Animation as a tool for social commentary.
In Opening Night, Mannie Davis 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 | High-Contrast |
| Soundtrack | Experimental |
| Editing | Invisible |
| Art Direction | Kitsch |
Visualizing the convergence of Mannie Davis's style and the core Animation narrative.
Cubby the Bear sneaks into the Roxy Opera House on it's opening night and ends up condicting an epic, animal-enacted version of Faust.
Decades after its release, Opening Night remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying Mannie Davis's status as a master of the craft in United States and beyond.