Silent Films at the California Theatre - The Birth of a Nation

Running time: 180 mins

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27 at 7:00 p.m.
THE BIRTH OF A NATION
(silent, 1915) USA

With Dennis James at the Wurlitzer organ.

Directed, produced and presented by David Wark Griffith. Scenario by David Wark Griffith and Frank E. Woods, based on the novel The Clansmen by Thomas Dixon. Photographed by G. W. Bitzer. With Henry Walthall, Lillian Gish, Mae Marsh.

Astonishing, monstrous. Moving, infuriating. A masterpiece, an abomination. Notably the most influential and infamous film ever made, The Birth of a Nation was praised for its spectacular war scenes, moving performances and technical achievements. However, it provoked great controversy for its treatment of white supremacy and sympathetic account of the rise of the Ku Klux Klan. Southern director Griffith was reportedly dismayed at the accusations of racism, insisting he had made an anti-war film and his portrayals were true and genuine. This did not quell the riots and protests that greeted many screenings (not to mention its effect on revitalizing the Klan). The controversy did not hurt the box office; Birth was revived several times and remained the top box office film for decades earning its title as Hollywood?s first ?Blockbuster.?

Ninety-four years after its premiere, The Birth of a Nation still has the power to move, shock and shame. Rarely revived due to the controversial content, this is a rare opportunity to experience it on the big screen.