Movie spotlight
The Attack on the Mill
First, the eye is introduced to the old mill itself, with a gay betrothal party in progress, and laughter and merriment on all sides. Suddenly the laughter is hushed by the martial tread of feet, and the smile of joy fades from the two young lovers' faces as the French soldiers march into the courtyard and prepare to defend the mill against the oncoming attack of the German army. The mild summer afternoon has but half way run its course towards its western home when a wounded outpost comes staggering into the courtyard with the news of the advancing German army stamped upon his blood-stained forehead. Suddenly the courtyard is filled with the smoke of battle, and we know that the long-expected attack is on.
Insights
Plot Summary
In this silent short film, a group of figures emerge from a sack and begin to harass a mill worker. The worker fights back, ultimately defeating the creatures and saving himself from their onslaught. The film is characterized by its early use of stop-motion and special effects.
Critical Reception
As one of the earliest examples of stop-motion animation and fantasy filmmaking, 'The Attack on the Mill' is historically significant. While contemporary reviews are scarce, its technical innovations were groundbreaking for its time, influencing later filmmakers in the genre. Its reception today is largely academic, focusing on its place in cinema history.
What Reviewers Say
A pioneering work in early special effects.
Demonstrates early use of stop-motion animation.
Historically significant for its imaginative approach to narrative.
Google audience: Information not available for this early silent film.
Fun Fact
Segundo de Chomón was a Spanish filmmaker known for his pioneering work in special effects and stop-motion animation, often compared to Georges Méliès.
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