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The Changing of Silas Warner

The Changing of Silas Warner (1911)

Jun 10, 1911 12m Drama Comedy

Silas Warner dictates a letter commanding his son Harry to leave college at once and enter his office as an employee. Furthermore, Mr. Warner has in mind the marriage of his son to his partner's daughter. When Harry receives his father's letter, he returns home, but takes a decided stand in opposition to his father's ideas. Furthermore, Harry is about to be married to Rose Blend. Warner's partner, Martin, turns out to be a defaulter, and almost ruins the firm. Harry reads a newspaper account of his father's ills and trouble, so he and his wife go to see and assist him. As Mr. Warner is convalescent, he extends to his son and wife his parental blessings.

Cast

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Maurice Costello
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Maurice Costello

as Silas Warner's Son

Mabel Normand
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Mabel Normand

as The Son's Wife

Crew

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, The Changing of Silas Warner 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.

Released in 1911, 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 Changing of Silas Warner took approximately 20 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 12 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 34 minutes long.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • The musical score contains over 70 unique compositions.
  • The film contains approximately 1101 individual shots.

Historical Context

  • In 1911, 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 The Changing of Silas Warner 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, The Changing of Silas Warner subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like The Goddess and Are All Men Alike? explore similar territory, The Changing of Silas Warner stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

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 10, 1911
  • Runtime: 12m

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