Cast
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Charles Hill Mailes
as Mexican Jim
Claire McDowell
as Mexican Jim's Wife
Blanche Sweet
as Alice Hardy - the Prospector's Wife
W. Chrystie Miller
as The Murdered Indian / Indian on Street
Robert Harron
as The Murdered Indian's Son
Mae Marsh
as A Murdered Settler (uncredited)
Alfred Paget
as A Drunken Cutthroat / An Indian / Among Rescuers (uncredited)
Jack Pickford
as An Indian (uncredited)
Charles Gorman
as Jack Hardy - the Prospector
Frank Opperman
as The Indian Chief / A Drunken Cutthroat / Bartender (uncredited)
Christy Cabanne
as An Indian (uncredited)
William A. Carroll
as In Bar / Among Rescuers (uncredited)
Frank Evans
as In Bar / Among Rescuers (uncredited)
Bert Hendler
as In Bar (uncredited)
Harry Hyde
as Among Rescuers / Outside Pony Express Office (uncredited)
Crew
Director
- D.W. Griffith
Writer
- George Hennessy
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Action/Western film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, A Temporary Truce distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
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 pacing and visual storytelling 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 A Temporary Truce took approximately 8 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 18 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 40 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.
- The film contains approximately 2428 individual shots.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1912, when this film was released:
- The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
- 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
Details
- Release Date: June 10, 1912
- Runtime: 18m