Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator

Director's Spotlight: United States
A Deep Dive into the 1937 Vision of Raoul Walsh
Few works in United States cinema carry the same weight as Artist and Models, especially regarding the technical innovation that Raoul Walsh introduced to the Comedy format. Subverting the expectations of the typical 1937 audience, it bridges the gap between traditional Comedy and contemporary vision.
In Artist and Models, Raoul Walsh 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, Raoul Walsh explores the intersection of Comedy and United States cultural identity. The meticulous attention to detail suggests a deep-seated commitment to pushing the boundaries of the medium, ensuring that Artist and Models remains a relevant topic of study for Comedy enthusiasts.
| Cinematography | High-Contrast |
| Soundtrack | Experimental |
| Editing | Invisible |
| Art Direction | Kitsch |
Visualizing the convergence of Raoul Walsh's style and the core Comedy narrative.
Mac Brewster (Benny) is head of an advertising firm that is in debt. The million-dollar Townsend Silver contract could save the firm, but the wealthy playboy Alan Townsend (Arlen) wants an amateur from high society rather than a professional model to become "the Townsend Girl." Upset that she was passed over sight-unseen as a professional, Brewster's top model (Lupino) goes to Miami with plans to bump into Townsend and pass as a society debutante.
Decades after its release, Artist and Models remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying Raoul Walsh's status as a master of the craft in United States and beyond.