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Mr. Barnes of New York

Mr. Barnes of New York (1922)

May 22, 1922 50m Romance Drama

An English naval officer and a Corsican youth have a duel, and the Corsican is killed. The young man's sister, Marina Paoli, swears vengeance on the killer. Mr. Barnes of New York, who happened to see the duel, finds the name Gerard Anstruther engraved on the pistols.....

Directed by Victor Schertzinger

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Victor Schertzinger
Writer
  • Gerald C. Duffy
  • J.E. Nash
Producer
  • Samuel Goldwyn

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Mr. Barnes of New York 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 Victor Schertzinger 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 1922, 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 Mr. Barnes of New York 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 97 minutes long.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
  • The screenplay went through 9 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 9 months to complete.

Historical Context

  • In 1922, when this film was released:
  • Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
  • Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular culture.
  • The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.

How This Film Stands Out

While Mr. Barnes of New York shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Battleship Potemkin, which focuses more on action than character development, Mr. Barnes of New York offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Nanook of the North and October (Ten Days that Shook the World) explore similar territory, Mr. Barnes of New York 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: May 22, 1922
  • Runtime: 50m