D.W. Griffith’s Intolerance (1916) is a groundbreaking silent film that weaves together four parallel stories spanning centuries, united by the theme of humanity’s struggle against prejudice and injustice. This epic masterpiece remains a cornerstone of early cinema, celebrated for its technical innovation, ambitious scale, and social commentary. In this review, we explore the film’s narrative structure, visual achievements, and its enduring influence on cinematic storytelling.
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Directed by D.W. Griffith, Intolerance was conceived as a response to the backlash against his controversial earlier work, The Birth of a Nation. This silent historical epic intertwines melodrama, historical drama, and religious allegory, establishing Griffith as a pioneer of multi-narrative storytelling.
The ensemble cast features prominent silent film actors, including Lillian Gish, Mae Marsh, and Robert Harron. Lillian Gish’s portrayal of the Eternal Mother is iconic, serving as a symbolic thread linking the film’s disparate stories. Each performance contributes to the film’s emotional depth and dramatic impact.
The film’s structure comprises four distinct yet interconnected narratives: a modern social drama, the fall of Babylon, the St. Bartholomew’s Day Massacre, and the crucifixion of Christ. These stories are interwoven through rapid cross-cutting, creating a tapestry of historical and emotional resonance. The “Eternal Mother” symbolizes the timeless battle against intolerance, tying the stories together with universal themes.
Each story features compelling characters who face oppression, betrayal, and redemption. From the tragic romance of the Babylonian princess to the struggles of the modern-day working-class couple, the film’s characters evoke empathy and highlight the cyclical nature of human suffering.
Intolerance revolutionized silent cinema through its innovative techniques, including cross-cutting, massive set designs, and large-scale crowd scenes. Griffith’s use of visual storytelling, such as close-ups and symbolic imagery, conveys complex emotions and themes without dialogue, making the film a visual marvel.
Despite its initial box office struggles, Intolerance has become a seminal work in film history. Its narrative ambition and technical innovations influenced generations of filmmakers, including Sergei Eisenstein and Orson Welles. The film’s use of cross-cutting to build tension and its massive set designs remain benchmarks in cinematic achievement.
Beyond its artistic contributions, Intolerance is a reflection of its time, addressing social issues like class struggle, religious persecution, and the destructive nature of prejudice. The film’s themes resonate today, underscoring its timeless relevance.
Intolerance is widely available on streaming platforms specializing in classic films, including Criterion Channel and YouTube. Restored versions with updated scores enhance the viewing experience for modern audiences.
The film’s use of parallel storytelling, cross-cutting, and large-scale production was revolutionary for its time, setting new standards for cinematic techniques.
The original runtime is approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, though shorter versions exist for contemporary audiences.
Yes, particularly for those interested in film history and silent cinema. Its themes and visuals remain compelling and thought-provoking.
Intolerance (1916) stands as a towering achievement in film history, showcasing D.W. Griffith’s mastery of cinematic language and his commitment to exploring profound social themes. Despite its age, the film continues to inspire filmmakers and audiences alike with its bold narrative structure and technical brilliance. For those who appreciate silent cinema and epic storytelling, Intolerance is a must-watch masterpiece.