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A Woman There Was

A Woman There Was (1919)

Jun 01, 1919 50m Romance Drama

Theda Bara plays Princess Zara, who lives on a South Sea Island. A handsome young missionary (William B. Davidson) arrives and there is a romance, which is hindered by various complications including a typhoon.

Directed by J. Gordon Edwards

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • J. Gordon Edwards

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, A Woman There Was 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 J. Gordon Edwards 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 1919, 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 A Woman There Was took approximately 4 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 71 minutes long.
  • The musical score contains over 54 unique compositions.
  • The costume department created over 209 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.

Historical Context

  • In 1919, when this film was released:
  • The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
  • 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 A Woman There Was 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 Miracle Man, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, A Woman There Was offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Beans and Tarnish explore similar territory, A Woman There Was 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: June 1, 1919
  • Runtime: 50m

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