D.W. GRIFFITH'S 'BIRTH OF NATION' PREMIERS
Los Angeles, California (JFK+50) On February 8, 1915, D.W. Griffith's controversial silent film, "The Birth of a Nation," premiered here in Los Angeles. The film, starring Lillian Gish* and Henry B. Walthall**, is based on Thomas Dixon's novel, "The Clansman," and was the first feature length motion picture.
Because the three hour movie reflects racial overtones, the NAACP works to have it banned. Despite the controversy, D.W. Griffith*** is widely regarded as "the father of cinema."
Tom Brook of the BBC writes...
"One hundred years after it was made, Birth of a Nation still has the power to both enthrall and appall."
Matt Brunson of Film Frenzy writes...
"As a work of art it is unforgettable; as a social document it is unforgiveable."
*Lillian Diana Gish (1893-1993) was born in Springfield, Ohio. Her acting career spanned 75 years & she was known as "The 1st Lady of American Cinema." LDG was a Republican who supported Richard Nixon & Ronald Reagan. She was awarded a Kennedy Center honor for her contribution to American Culture through performing arts.
**Henry Brazeale Walthall (1878-1936) was born in Shelby County, Alabama. His father was a captain in the Confederate army & HBW served in the Spanish-American War. He acted professionally 1906-1936.
***David Wark Griffith (1875-1948) was born in Oldham County, Kentucky. DWG made 500 films 1895-1931 & founded United Artists in 1919. He is recognized for technical contributions to filmmaking.
SOURCES
"The Birth of a Nation," Rotten Tomatoes, www.rottentomatoes.com/
"The Birth of a Nation: The most racist movie ever made?," by Tom Brook, BBC, www.bbc.com/
