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Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator
Director's Spotlight: United States
A Deep Dive into the 1936 Vision of W.S. Van Dyke
Peeling back the layers of W.S. Van Dyke's The Devil Is a Sissy exposes the technical innovation that W.S. Van Dyke introduced to the Drama format. Driven by an uncompromising commitment to Drama excellence, it stands as the definitive 1936 statement on Drama identity.
In The Devil Is a Sissy, W.S. Van Dyke 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, The Devil Is a Sissy has achieved a global reach, influencing directors from various backgrounds. Its ability to translate Drama tropes into a universal cinematic language is why it remains a cult staple decades after its 1936 release.
| Cinematography | Handheld |
| Soundtrack | Experimental |
| Editing | Invisible |
| Art Direction | Kitsch |
Visualizing the convergence of W.S. Van Dyke's style and the core Drama narrative.
A well-bred young English lad living in lower Manhattan tries to gain acceptance from his not-so-well-bred peers at school.
Decades after its release, The Devil Is a Sissy remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying W.S. Van Dyke's status as a master of the craft in United States and beyond.