Backdrop preview Ferragus backdrop
Ferragus

Ferragus (1923)

Nov 30, 1923 1h 36m

An adaptation of the first part of Balzac's History of the Thirteen, centered on the secret society of the Thirteen and helmed by René Navarre in the titular role of the former convict who became a sublime father.

Directed by Gaston Ravel

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Gaston Ravel
Writer
  • Honoré de Balzac

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Thematic Analysis

Ferragus represents a fascinating example of cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director Gaston Ravel 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 1923, 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 Ferragus took approximately 27 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 96 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 148 minutes long.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
  • The musical score contains over 78 unique compositions.
  • The screenplay went through 11 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.

Historical Context

  • In 1923, when this film was released:
  • Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
  • 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

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

Unlike Curse of the Golden Flower, which focuses more on action than character development, Ferragus subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like Domino One and Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood explore similar territory, Ferragus 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: November 30, 1923
  • Runtime: 1h 36m