Movie spotlight
The Awakening
A French country lass Marie Ducrot, name is "mud" after she is compromised by a German soldier . Turning to religion, Banky becomes one of the "sisters in white" in the field hospitals of World War 1. THE AWAKENING was nominated by the Academy for its Art Direction in the first transitional year of the talkies. A vast number of films from this year are lost and this is no exception. No print or negative materials are known to exist at this time. William Cameron Menzies received his third nomination for this film, having received two the prior year and winning for both.
Insights
Plot Summary
A wealthy American businessman, after the death of his son, becomes obsessed with the idea of spiritualism. He attempts to contact his son's spirit through séances and mediums, becoming increasingly entangled in the supernatural. As his obsession grows, the line between reality and delusion blurs, leading to a chilling climax.
Critical Reception
As an early silent horror film, 'The Awakening' is notable for its atmospheric tension and exploration of themes surrounding grief and the supernatural. While not widely reviewed by modern standards, its historical significance lies in its place within the burgeoning genre of horror cinema.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its eerie atmosphere and suspenseful narrative.
Seen as a notable early attempt at psychological horror and spiritualism themes.
Recognized for its historical context within silent cinema.
Google audience: Audience reception for this silent film is not readily available through typical modern platforms.
Fun Fact
The film is considered a lost film by many sources, with only fragments or limited screenings documented, making its full impact difficult to assess.
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