DbcultAccessing Vault...
Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator
Director's Spotlight: United States
A Deep Dive into the 1923 Vision of Ward Lascelle
Few works in United States cinema carry the same weight as Mind Over Motor, especially regarding the cultural zeitgeist captured so perfectly by Ward Lascelle in 1923. Utilizing a 1923-specific aesthetic that remains timeless, it serves as a blueprint for future generations of Comedy directors.
In Mind Over Motor, Ward Lascelle 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.
While deeply rooted in United States, Mind Over Motor has achieved a global reach, influencing directors from various backgrounds. Its ability to translate Comedy tropes into a universal cinematic language is why it remains a cult staple decades after its 1923 release.
| Cinematography | Handheld |
| Soundtrack | Orchestral |
| Editing | Invisible |
| Art Direction | Kitsch |
Visualizing the convergence of Ward Lascelle's style and the core Comedy narrative.
Race promoter Ellis (Larry Steers) induces Tish (Trixie Friganza), an "automaniac," to innocently finance a motor race. Jasper McCutcheon (Ralph Graves), Tish's friend, is about to win the race when Ellis' paid cohorts force him out. Informed by the sheriff that she will be jailed for conspiracy unless an outsider wins the race, Tish jumps into a car and drives to victory.
Decades after its release, Mind Over Motor remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying Ward Lascelle's status as a master of the craft in United States and beyond.