Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator

Director's Spotlight: United States
A Deep Dive into the 1934 Vision of Otto Brower
The thematic gravity of Speed Wings (1934) is rooted in the historical context that Otto Brower weaves into the Adventure fabric. Synthesizing the best elements of United States and international cinema, it highlights the importance of independent voices in United States.
In Speed Wings, Otto Brower 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.
The visual language of Speed Wings is defined by its use of shadows and framing, a hallmark of Otto Brower's style. By utilizing a 1934-era palette, the film creates an immersive experience that perfectly complements its Adventure themes.
| Cinematography | Noir-Inspired |
| Soundtrack | Synth-Heavy |
| Editing | Rhythmic |
| Art Direction | Naturalist |
Visualizing the convergence of Otto Brower's style and the core Adventure narrative.
A kidnapping, three airplane crashes and several fist-fights adds speed to the plot in which the plans of a new, faster airplane motor invented by brothers Tim (Tim McCoy) and Jerry (William Bakewell) are stolen and suspicion falls on their office secretary Mary Stuart (Evalyn Knapp). But she can pilot an airplane with the best of them and she risks her life to save Tim. And when she gets kidnapped, Jerry regains his lost nerve in rescuing her.
Decades after its release, Speed Wings remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying Otto Brower's status as a master of the craft in United States and beyond.