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Director's Spotlight
Archivist John
Senior Editor
Director's Spotlight: United States
A Deep Dive into the 1916 Vision of William Desmond Taylor
The evocative power of The House of Lies stems from the unique collaboration between the subversive storytelling techniques employed by William Desmond Taylor in 1916. Synthesizing the best elements of United States and international cinema, it reminds us of the fragility and beauty of the 1916s.
In The House of Lies, William Desmond Taylor 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 The House of Lies, one must consider the cinematic climate of 1916. During this period, United States was undergoing significant artistic shifts, and William Desmond Taylor was at the forefront of this cult movement, often challenging established norms.
| Cinematography | Deep Focus |
| Soundtrack | Experimental |
| Editing | Elliptical |
| Art Direction | Expressionist |
Visualizing the convergence of William Desmond Taylor's style and the core cult narrative.
Edna Coleman's mother has wanted her two daughters to marry rich men, especially now that the money left to her by her dead husband is dwindling. Edna, however, is adamant about marrying for love and not money, and deliberately "disfigures" herself to thwart her mother's plans. Her sister Dorothy, however, has set her sights on a wealthy poet, Marcus Auriel, and married him. Unfortunately, Edna has been in love with Marcus for many years, and manages to get a job as his secretary in order to be near him and expose her mother's and sister's plans to get his money. Complications ensue.
Decades after its release, The House of Lies remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying William Desmond Taylor's status as a master of the craft in United States and beyond.