Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator

Director's Spotlight: United States
A Deep Dive into the 1920 Vision of Paul Powell
Peeling back the layers of Paul Powell's Eyes of the Heart exposes the collaborative alchemy between Paul Powell and the 1920 creative team. Anchored by a narrative that is both personal and universal, it reinforces the idea that cinema is a medium of infinite possibilities.
In Eyes of the Heart, Paul Powell 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.
In this work, Paul Powell explores the intersection of Drama and United States cultural identity. The meticulous attention to detail suggests a deep-seated commitment to pushing the boundaries of the medium, ensuring that Eyes of the Heart remains a relevant topic of study for Drama enthusiasts.
| Cinematography | Handheld |
| Soundtrack | Orchestral |
| Editing | Slow-Burn |
| Art Direction | Brutalist |
Visualizing the convergence of Paul Powell's style and the core Drama narrative.
Laura, a blind girl, has been cared for since infancy by Mike, Whitey, and Sal, three crooks who have kept her ignorant of her true surroundings. After an operation restores her sight, Laura is disillusioned and embittered by the sordidness of her environment. She falls under the evil influence of the gang's leader, Dennis Sullivan, who teaches her the art of safecracking. Just as Laura is about to perform her first job, her three benefactors are released from jail because of insufficient evidence and rush to the scene of the robbery to prevent Laura's corruption. The owner of the safe gives the four a ranch in reward for thwarting the robbery, and they all start a new life in the West.
Decades after its release, Eyes of the Heart remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying Paul Powell's status as a master of the craft in United States and beyond.