Cast
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Adda Gleason
as Catherine Montour
Howard Gaye
as Lionel Esmond
George Chesebro
as Walter Butler
Dark Cloud
as Joseph Brant
Doris Pawn
as Madeline Brant
Jack Cosgrove
as George III
Norval MacGregor
as Lorimer Steuart
Jane Novak
as Cecil Steuart
William Colby
as Sir John Johnson
Lottie Kruse
as Peggy Johnson
Chief John Big Tree
as Gowah
Willam Freeman
as Lord Chatham
W.E. Lawrence
as Captain Boyd
Noah Beery
as George Washington
Ben Lewis
as Benjamin Franklin
Crew
Director
- Frank Montgomery
Producer
- Robert Goldstein
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Spirit of '76 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 Frank Montgomery 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 1917, 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 The Spirit of '76 took approximately 12 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $0.2 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 135 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 180 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1927 individual shots.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The screenplay went through 12 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1917, 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 The Spirit of '76 shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Apocalypto, which focuses more on action than character development, The Spirit of '76 offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Maverick and The Last of the Mohicans explore similar territory, The Spirit of '76 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: January 1, 1917
- Runtime: 2h 15m
- Budget: $200,000
