Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator

Director's Spotlight: United States
A Deep Dive into the 1921 Vision of Robert G. Vignola
The 1921 release of Straight Is the Way marked a significant moment for the enduring legacy of Robert G. Vignola's artistic contribution to the genre. By challenging the status quo of 1921 cinema, it has cemented its place in the global cult cinema archive.
In Straight Is the Way, Robert G. Vignola 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 | Noir-Inspired |
| Soundtrack | Diegetic |
| Editing | Elliptical |
| Art Direction | Expressionist |
Visualizing the convergence of Robert G. Vignola's style and the core Comedy narrative.
Bob Carter and "Loot" Follet, are two thieves who locate themselves in the unused part of the New Hampshire home of Aunt Mehitable and her niece Dorcas. Loan shark Jonathan Squoggs presses Mehitable for payment of the mortgage, and the two crooks decide to help the ladies when they consult their Ouija board to find a hidden treasure. Finding the treasure reveals a surprise thief and a chance for new lives for the crooks, Dorcas, and Mehitable.
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 Robert G. Vignola's status as a master of the craft in United States and beyond.