When going over list of the top silent films of all time, Carl Theodor Dreyer's, The Passion of Joan of Arc is almost always included and usually towards the top. If you've seen this remarkable piece of cinema, you know why. If not, and you have an interest in silent movies - why haven't you seen this?
Like no other film of the silent era, this movie looks and feels extremely modern. Almost entirely shot in close-ups with over sized sets, extreme camera angles and some of the most disturbing collection of faces ever assembled, The Passion of Joan of Arc is a mesmerizing, often upsetting, and yet artistically satisfying interpretation of the actual transcripts from the 1431 trial.
To compliment all of this is the beautiful performance of actress Maria Falconetti in the title role. Her portrayal of the martyr saint has had many film scholars, including Roger Ebert, to agree that it is one of the greatest female performances in the history of film. Any skeptic should check out this movie for themselves to form their own opinions, but after viewing, it's highly unlikely that there will be much disagreement.
Thanks to Turner Classic Movies and their Silent Sunday Nights, The Passion of Joan of Arc has aired several times over the last couple of years and is likely to show up again. Keep your eyes open for it, as it may bring out a curiosity to take a more closer look at the silent era - an era that will continue to fascinate once given the chance.
Like no other film of the silent era, this movie looks and feels extremely modern. Almost entirely shot in close-ups with over sized sets, extreme camera angles and some of the most disturbing collection of faces ever assembled, The Passion of Joan of Arc is a mesmerizing, often upsetting, and yet artistically satisfying interpretation of the actual transcripts from the 1431 trial.
To compliment all of this is the beautiful performance of actress Maria Falconetti in the title role. Her portrayal of the martyr saint has had many film scholars, including Roger Ebert, to agree that it is one of the greatest female performances in the history of film. Any skeptic should check out this movie for themselves to form their own opinions, but after viewing, it's highly unlikely that there will be much disagreement.
Thanks to Turner Classic Movies and their Silent Sunday Nights, The Passion of Joan of Arc has aired several times over the last couple of years and is likely to show up again. Keep your eyes open for it, as it may bring out a curiosity to take a more closer look at the silent era - an era that will continue to fascinate once given the chance.
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