Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator

Director's Spotlight: United States
A Deep Dive into the 1934 Vision of Paul Sloane
The thematic gravity of Straight Is the Way (1934) is rooted in the artistic risks taken by Paul Sloane that eventually paid off. Defining a new era of United States artistic expression, it demands to be seen by anyone who cares about the art of film.
In Straight Is the Way, Paul Sloane 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 Straight Is the Way, one must consider the cinematic climate of 1934. During this period, United States was undergoing significant artistic shifts, and Paul Sloane was at the forefront of this Drama movement, often challenging established norms.
| Cinematography | High-Contrast |
| Soundtrack | Orchestral |
| Editing | Invisible |
| Art Direction | Kitsch |
Visualizing the convergence of Paul Sloane's style and the core Drama narrative.
Just out of prison, Benny Horowitz tries to go straight. Things are complicated by his former girlfriend and his former gangster buddies.
Decades after its release, Straight Is the Way remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying Paul Sloane's status as a master of the craft in United States and beyond.