Cast
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Edwin August
as The School Teacher
Mary Pickford
as Nora, the Waif
Charles Hill Mailes
as Nora's Father
Bert Hendler
as A Street Fakir
Claire McDowell
as The Street Fakir's Sweetheart
William A. Carroll
as The Street Fakir's Assistant
Robert Harron
as Schoolboy
Kate Bruce
as
Josephine Crowell
as
Ella Hall
as Schoolgirl (unconfirmed)
Grace Henderson
as A Mother
Mae Marsh
as Schoolgirl
Frank Opperman
as At the Bee
Alfred Paget
as At the Bee
Jack Pickford
as Extra
Crew
Director
- D.W. Griffith
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The School Teacher and the Waif examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director D.W. Griffith 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 character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1912, 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 The School Teacher and the Waif took approximately 23 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 17 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 69 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 2 weeks before filming began.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1912, when this film was released:
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
- The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
Details
- Release Date: June 26, 1912
- Runtime: 17m