Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator

Director's Spotlight: United States
A Deep Dive into the 1924 Vision of Rollin S. Sturgeon
As we revisit the 1924 masterpiece Daughters of Today, we are struck by the atmospheric immersion that Rollin S. Sturgeon achieves throughout Daughters of Today. Exploring the nuances of the human condition with Drama flair, it solidifies Rollin S. Sturgeon's reputation as a master of the craft.
In Daughters of Today, Rollin S. Sturgeon 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 Daughters of Today is defined by its use of shadows and framing, a hallmark of Rollin S. Sturgeon's style. By utilizing a 1924-era palette, the film creates an immersive experience that perfectly complements its Drama themes.
| Cinematography | Handheld |
| Soundtrack | Orchestral |
| Editing | Invisible |
| Art Direction | Kitsch |
Visualizing the convergence of Rollin S. Sturgeon's style and the core Drama narrative.
Mabel Vandergrift moves from the country to the city and enrolls in an upscale college. She starts to hang around with a "fast" crowd, and one night at a party a young man picks her for his "conquest". She fends him off, but when he is later found dead she is charged with his murder. Her boyfriend from back home hears about her troubles and comes to the city to clear her name and find the real killer.
Decades after its release, Daughters of Today remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying Rollin S. Sturgeon's status as a master of the craft in United States and beyond.