Cast
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Andrée Lafayette
as Trilby
Creighton Hale
as Little Billee
Arthur Edmund Carewe
as Svengali
Philo McCullough
as Taffy
Wilfred Lucas
as The Laird
Maurice de Canonge
as Zouzou
Gordon Mullen
as Durien
Martha Franklin
as Madame Vinard
Gilbert Clayton
as Reverend Bagot
Edward Kimball
as Impresario
Francis McDonald
as Geko
Max Constant
as Dodor
Gertrude Olmstead
as Miss Bagot
Evelyn Sherman
as Mrs. Bagot
Rose Dione
as Laundress
Crew
Director
- James Young
Writer
- Richard Walton Tully
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Trilby 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 James Young 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 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 Trilby took approximately 31 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 80 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 132 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 4 months to complete.
- The screenplay went through 7 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The musical score contains over 44 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1923, when this film was released:
- The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Trilby shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Promise at Dawn, which focuses more on action than character development, Trilby offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Grand Canary and Kiss the Girls explore similar territory, Trilby stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: July 29, 1923
- Runtime: 1h 20m
