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Damn the War

Damn the War (1914)

Apr 30, 1914 50m War Drama

An army pilot is visiting the home of another army pilot in a neighboring country, and falling in love with his sister, when war breaks out.

Directed by Alfred Machin

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Alfred Machin
Writer
  • Alfred Machin

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Damn the War 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 Alfred Machin 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 1914, 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 Damn the War took approximately 28 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 85 minutes long.
  • The costume department created over 286 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • The film contains approximately 1662 individual shots.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.

Historical Context

  • In 1914, 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 Damn the War shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike People on Sunday, which focuses more on action than character development, Damn the War offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like The Passion of Joan of Arc and Battleship Potemkin explore similar territory, Damn the War stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

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: April 30, 1914
  • Runtime: 50m