Intolerance! A Silent Symphony of Human Emotion and Historical Spectacle!

“Intolerance,” directed by the visionary D.W. Griffith and released in 1916, stands as a monumental achievement in early cinema. This epic silent film interweaves four separate stories spanning different historical eras: the persecution of early Christians in Babylon; the St. Bartholomew’s Day Massacre in 16th-century France; the American Civil War; and the modern-day story of a young woman battling societal judgment. While “Intolerance” is celebrated for its groundbreaking filmmaking techniques, including masterful editing and innovative camera angles, it also sparked controversy due to its depiction of historical events.

The film’s ambitious structure unfolds across millennia, showcasing both grand spectacle and intimate human drama. Griffith masterfully weaves together these disparate narratives, highlighting recurring themes of intolerance, persecution, love, and sacrifice. “Intolerance” is a powerful meditation on the cyclical nature of violence and injustice throughout history.

The Four Threads of Intolerance

The film’s four interconnected stories provide a multifaceted exploration of human suffering and resilience:

• Babylon: This segment portrays the plight of early Christians under the tyrannical rule of the Roman Empire. A young Christian woman, played by Constance Talmadge, is condemned to death for her faith.

• France (1572): This story depicts the brutal St. Bartholomew’s Day Massacre, a horrific event in which thousands of Huguenots were slaughtered by Catholics. Griffith captures the raw intensity and terror of this historical tragedy.

• The American Civil War: The film offers a poignant depiction of love amidst conflict, following the intertwined fates of two families during the tumultuous era.

• Modern Times (1910s): A young woman is falsely accused of adultery and ostracized by society. This storyline serves as a contemporary reflection of the enduring themes of prejudice and injustice explored throughout the film.

A Cast of Epic Proportions

“Intolerance” boasted an ensemble cast that brought its ambitious stories to life:

The film marked the beginning of Lillian Gish’s illustrious career, solidifying her reputation as one of silent cinema’s greatest actresses.

Griffith’s Innovative Techniques

“Intolerance” was a cinematic tour de force, showcasing D.W. Griffith’s innovative filmmaking techniques:

• Parallel Editing: Griffith employed this technique to intercut scenes from the different storylines, creating a powerful sense of dramatic tension and highlighting thematic connections.

• Close-ups and Extreme Close-ups: Griffith used close-ups to capture intimate emotions and facial expressions, adding depth and realism to the characters.

• Innovative Camera Angles: Griffith’s use of unconventional camera angles, including low-angle shots and dutch angles, created a sense of dynamism and visual interest.

Controversy and Legacy

“Intolerance,” while lauded for its technical brilliance and powerful storytelling, was met with controversy upon its release due to its portrayal of historical events. Some critics accused Griffith of perpetuating racist stereotypes and glorifying violence. However, the film’s legacy continues to be debated among film historians and enthusiasts.

Despite the controversies, “Intolerance” remains a landmark achievement in cinematic history, showcasing D.W. Griffith’s unparalleled ability to craft epic narratives and employ innovative filmmaking techniques. The film’s themes of intolerance, persecution, and love continue to resonate with audiences today, making it a timeless testament to the enduring power of cinema.