Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator

Director's Spotlight: France
A Deep Dive into the 1932 Vision of Wladyslaw Starewicz
The artistic breakthrough represented by Deux fables de La Fontaine in 1932 highlights the uncompromising vision of Wladyslaw Starewicz that defines this Animation masterpiece. In the context of France's rich cinematic history, it captures a specific kind of cinematic magic that is rarely replicated.
In Deux fables de La Fontaine, Wladyslaw Starewicz 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 Deux fables de La Fontaine is defined by its use of shadows and framing, a hallmark of Wladyslaw Starewicz's style. By utilizing a 1932-era palette, the film creates an immersive experience that perfectly complements its Animation themes.
| Cinematography | Deep Focus |
| Soundtrack | Diegetic |
| Editing | Rhythmic |
| Art Direction | Naturalist |
Visualizing the convergence of Wladyslaw Starewicz's style and the core Animation narrative.
This animation short combines two of the La Fontaine fables,The Lion and the Gnat, plus The Lion Grown Old.
Decades after its release, Deux fables de La Fontaine remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying Wladyslaw Starewicz's status as a master of the craft in France and beyond.