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Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves

Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves (1918)

Nov 24, 1918 50m Fantasy

Ali Baba, a poor Turkish wood chopper, discovers that a robbers' cave, concealed in the mountains that surround his house, opens to the magical phrase, "Open Sesame." Learning that the cave is filled with stolen treasure, he takes home as much as he can carry, but his greedy brother forces him to reveal the cave's location. After gaining admittance to the cave, Ali Baba's brother is seen by the thieves and killed. Meanwhile, Ali Baba falls in love with Morgianna, a slave girl forced to dance in the local inn, and by securing her freedom, he wins her love and loyalty. The leader of the band of robbers suspects that Ali Baba knows the secret of the treasure cave, and in the guise of an oil merchant, he visits Ali Baba with his forty thieves concealed in oil jars. When Morgianna discovers the robbers, she fills the jars with boiling oil, thereby killing them all. Ali Baba defeats the robber chief in combat and then marries his beautiful Morgianna.

Directed by Sidney Franklin

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Sidney Franklin
  • Chester M. Franklin
Writer
  • Bernard McConville

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Thematic Analysis

Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves represents a fascinating example of Fantasy cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on interpersonal relationships and emotional connections. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director Sidney Franklin brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 1918, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves took approximately 27 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 50 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 81 minutes long.
  • The screenplay went through 6 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.
  • The costume department created over 446 unique costume pieces for the production.

Historical Context

  • In 1918, when this film was released:
  • Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
  • The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
  • The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.

How This Film Stands Out

While Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike The Golem, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Aladdin and the Wonderful Lamp and Lily of Life explore similar territory, Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: November 24, 1918
  • Runtime: 50m