The 1910s, a pivotal era in film history, saw the emergence of new filmmaking techniques and the exploration of complex themes, setting the stage for the future of cinema. This list celebrates the pioneers of this formative period, showcasing directors and films that dared to push the boundaries of visual storytelling. From the haunting depths of war-torn landscapes to whimsical tales of love and deception, each film on this list represents a piece of cinematic innovation and storytelling brilliance. These movies not only captivated the audiences of their time but also continue to influence filmmakers and enthusiasts to this day. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the ten best films of the 1910s.
10. Fantômas – Louis Feuillade (1913)
“Fantômas,” directed by Louis Feuillade, portrays a captivating and complex narrative centered around the titular character, a master of disguise known for his intellectual prowess. The film follows the enigmatic Fantômas as he commits a bewildering and carefully planned series of crimes, continuously outsmarting and confounding the police and public alike. His arch-nemesis, Inspector Juve, a determined law enforcer, is unwavering in his determination to capture him, leading to a relentless pursuit. This suspenseful cat-and-mouse game between Fantômas and Juve forms the core of the film’s intrigue.
Louis Feuillade’s direction creates a world that blurs the lines between right and wrong, creating a complex and thought-provoking moral situation. The film’s visual style is revolutionary and groundbreaking for its time, utilizing a range of innovative and forward-thinking techniques that significantly contribute to the tense and captivating atmosphere. Its influence on the crime and thriller genres is profound and far-reaching, setting a precedent for future cinematic endeavors. “Fantômas” remains an influential work of early cinema, reflecting the era’s fascination with mystery and the criminal mind, continuing to resonate with audiences today.
9. A Dog’s Life – Charlie Chaplin (1918)
“A Dog’s Life,” a 1918 silent film directed by Charlie Chaplin, presents a touching and memorable tale of survival and friendship set during a time of societal indifference. Chaplin, in his beloved and timeless portrayal of his iconic Tramp character, faces a daily struggle to make ends meet in a society largely apathetic to his plight. His journey, filled with both hardships and moments of joy, reflects the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Amidst his challenges, he forms an unexpected bond with a stray dog, named Scraps, a loyal companion. Their companionship becomes a shining example of hope and resilience as they navigate the numerous and varied challenges of their lives.
Chaplin’s unique blend of comedy and social commentary shines through in this film. His expertly crafted physical comedy, seamlessly combined with moments of genuine and relatable emotional depth, creates a narrative that is both highly entertaining and deeply thought-provoking. “A Dog’s Life” is not just a film about the bond between a man and his dog, but a nuanced and reflective commentary on the human condition, highlighting the importance of companionship and empathy in a world filled with uncertainties and challenges. It stands as a glowing testament to Chaplin’s genius and remains a beloved classic cherished by audiences worldwide, ensuring its place as one of the best films of the 1910s.
8. The Outlaw and His Wife – Victor Sjöström (1918)
In “The Outlaw and His Wife,” directed by Victor Sjöström, the story takes place in the breathtaking Icelandic wilderness and focuses on Eyvind, an outlaw with a mysterious past. He falls deeply in love with Halla, a resilient and independent woman who owns the farm where he is employed. When Eyvind’s true identity as a fugitive is dramatically revealed, the couple is forced to flee into the rugged and imposing mountains to escape the clutches of the law. Their life in this relentless landscape becomes an intense test of love and survival. The challenges they face in the wilderness highlight the strength of their bond and the resilience of the human spirit.
Victor Sjöström’s storytelling is engaging and visually striking, capturing the stunning beauty of the Icelandic scenery. The film is particularly notable for its exploration of themes like freedom, love, and the struggle against a seemingly inescapable fate. Sjöström’s masterful direction, combined with the compelling and authentic performances, create a deeply moving and memorable cinematic piece. “The Outlaw and His Wife” is celebrated for its innovative and pioneering use of natural landscapes to enhance the emotional depth of its story, making it a significant and influential landmark in silent film history.
7. Cabiria – Giovanni Pastrone (1914)
“Cabiria,” a groundbreaking silent film directed by Giovanni Pastrone, focuses on a young girl, Cabiria, who is tragically kidnapped during the Punic Wars. Throughout the film, she faces a series of perilous adventures, including being sold into slavery and almost being sacrificed to the god Moloch. Throughout her harrowing journey, Roman noble Fulvius Axilla, along with his mighty and loyal strongman servant, Maciste, embark on a quest to rescue her, leading to various dramatic encounters. The intensity of Cabiria’s plight and the bravery of her rescuers add a layer of depth to the narrative, creating a gripping experience for the audience.
Giovanni Pastrone’s film is widely celebrated for its grand scale and revolutionary use of special effects, which were astonishingly innovative at the time. “Cabiria” played a crucial role in shaping the epic film genre, inspiring many filmmakers with its ambitious scope and visually captivating storytelling. The film’s exploration of historical events through a deeply engaging and emotive personal narrative adds a relatable layer of human emotion to the grandeur of its setting. Its influence extends beyond its technical achievements, leaving a resounding and unforgettable impact on the development of the medium, making it one of the best films of the 1910s.
6. Dante’s Inferno – Giuseppe de Liguoro, Francesco Bertolini, Adolfo Padovan (1911)
“Dante’s Inferno,” a fascinating and visually compelling film by directors Giuseppe de Liguoro, Francesco Bertolini, and Adolfo Padovan, adapts the first part of Dante Alighieri’s “Divine Comedy.” The film follows Dante as he embarks on a deeply moving and visually striking journey through the nine circles of Hell, guided by the wise and knowledgeable poet Virgil. Along this thought-provoking path, Dante encounters various sinners and witnesses the horrific torments they endure as a direct consequence of their earthly actions. The film skillfully blends the fantastical elements of the epic poem with dynamic and vivid visual storytelling.
This adaptation stands out for its ambitious portrayal of the infernal landscape, a pioneering feat of early cinema’s ability to bring complex literary worlds to life. The innovative special effects, carefully crafted set designs, and elaborate and detailed costumes combine to create a visually stunning and immersive experience. This film was among the first and most influential full-length feature films in Italian cinema, and its visual ambition laid the groundwork for future cinematic epics. “Dante’s Inferno” is a profound and engrossing visual exploration of morality and the human spirit, mesmerizing audiences with its creative interpretation of Dante’s vision.
5. A Man There Was – Victor Sjöström (1917)
“A Man There Was”, directed by Victor Sjöström, is a Swedish silent film based on a poem by Henrik Ibsen. The story centers around Terje Vigen, a humble fisherman who faces extremely challenging and heart-wrenching circumstances during the British blockade of Norway in the Napoleonic Wars. Driven by a desperate need to save his family from the brink of starvation, Terje embarks on a treacherous journey across the sea to bring back much-needed food. This harrowing and perilous trip is marked by tragedy and hardship, strongly affecting Terje’s life and spirit.
The film is widely acclaimed and respected for its expressive cinematography and Sjöström’s deeply moving performance in the lead role. It captures the raw emotional intensity of human endurance and resilience in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds. The stark and haunting sea landscapes serve as a powerful visual metaphor for Terje’s profound isolation and struggle. “A Man There Was” is a groundbreaking and influential work in Swedish cinema, noted for its narrative depth and its significant role in the evolution of the silent film genre, making it one of the best films of the 1910s.
4. The Doll – Ernst Lubitsch (1919)
“The Doll,” directed by Ernst Lubitsch, presents a quirky and light-hearted tale set in a whimsical version of Germany. The story humorously revolves around Lancelot, a young man who finds himself under immense pressure to marry for the sake of securing a substantial inheritance but harbors a deep reluctance to engage in the complexities of romance. In an attempt to fulfill his familial obligations without sacrificing his cherished freedom, Lancelot makes a plan to marry a lifelike doll instead of a real woman, believing this will solve his dilemma. However, chaos and comedy ensue when the doll is replaced by a real woman who pretends to be the doll.
Ernst Lubitsch’s signature touch of satire and wit is abundantly clear throughout the film, making it a delightful comedy that stands out in the era of silent cinema. The film showcases Lubitsch’s early mastery of blending humor with engaging and charming storytelling. Its playful exploration of themes like love, deception, and human relationships is both highly entertaining and deeply thought-provoking. “The Doll” remains a vivid and memorable testament to Lubitsch’s enduring influence on the romantic comedy genre, showcasing his ability to create timeless and engaging stories that resonate with audiences across generations.
3. The Vampires or, The Arch Criminals of Paris – Louis Feuillade (1915)
“The Vampires,” a silent crime film directed by Louis Feuillade, immerses viewers in the dark underbelly of Paris. It follows the reporter Philippe Guérande in his determined and dangerous quest to uncover and thwart the sinister activities of a criminal organization known as The Vampires. These villains, led by the enigmatic Grand Vampire and the mysterious Irma Vep, engage in a wide array of nefarious deeds, ranging from daring thefts to manipulative extortion. Guérande’s investigations lead him into a world filled with danger, intrigue, and a series of unexpected twists. The portrayal of the shadowy Parisian streets adds a further layer of authenticity to the thrilling narrative.
Louis Feuillade’s film is notable for its elaborate plot and the way it captures the anxieties and fascinations of its era. The episodic nature of the series allows for a complex, evolving narrative that keeps viewers constantly on the edge of their seats. Its blend of suspense, action, and mystery was revolutionary for the time and has deeply influenced the thriller genre for decades. Feuillade’s direction is both subtle and striking, telling a tale that is as visually captivating as it is narratively engrossing. “The Vampires” is widely celebrated for its innovative storytelling, atmospheric setting, and distinctly unforgettable characters, securing its place as one of the best films of the 1910s.
2. The Cameraman’s Revenge – Wladyslaw Starewicz (1912)
“The Cameraman’s Revenge,” directed by Wladyslaw Starewicz, stands as an early and pioneering example of stop-motion animation using an ensemble of insects and other small creatures as characters. This groundbreaking short film tells the story of Mr. Beetle, who embarks on a quest for revenge against his unfaithful wife by filming her infidelity with a cinematograph. The plot unfolds in a humorous and satirical manner, showcasing the complexities and ironies of relationships and revenge. This unique approach to storytelling blends elements of fantasy with a surprising touch of realism, making it a remarkably distinctive and memorable work of its time.
Wladyslaw Starewicz’s innovative use of animation in “The Cameraman’s Revenge” sets it apart from other films of the time. The film’s impressive technical prowess, combined with its captivating and engaging narrative, establishes it as a pioneering work in the field of animated storytelling. Its ability to convey a range of emotions and humor through the unique medium of non-human characters is a striking testament to Starewicz’s exceptional skill and boundless creativity. This film remains a highly respected and significant achievement in early cinema, demonstrating the vast potential of animation to tell complex, engaging, and deeply entertaining stories.
1. J’accuse – Abel Gance (1919)
“J’accuse,” directed by Abel Gance in 1919, offers a moving and harrowing portrayal of the horrors of World War I. The film focuses on the character of Jean Diaz, a poet turned soldier, who experiences the sheer brutality and grim reality of life in the trenches firsthand. Haunted by the widespread devastation and loss surrounding him, Jean transforms into a passionate and vocal advocate for peace, driven by his traumatic experiences. His personal struggles, full of emotional turmoil and romantic entanglements are portrayed along with his strong opposition to the senseless violence of war. “J’accuse” presents an emotionally charged depiction of the impact of war on the human spirit and psyche.
Abel Gance’s masterpiece is particularly notable for its innovative cinematic techniques and its raw, unflinching look at the consequences of war. The film combines intense personal drama with epic scenes of battle, creating a deeply affecting and unforgettable cinematic experience. “J’accuse” was one of the first films to incorporate actual footage from the front lines, adding a significant level of authenticity to its already compelling message. It is not only a significant piece of cinematic history but also a moving call for peace in the face of widespread destruction and chaos, ensuring its place as one of the best films of the 1910s.
Summary
To summarise, here are the ten best films of the 1910s:
- Fantômas – Louis Feuillade (1913)
- A Dog’s Life – Charlie Chaplin (1918)
- The Outlaw and His Wife – Victor Sjöström (1918)
- Cabiria – Giovanni Pastrone (1914)
- Dante’s Inferno – Giuseppe de Liguoro, Francesco Bertolini, Adolfo Padovan (1911)
- A Man There Was – Victor Sjöström (1917)
- The Doll – Ernst Lubitsch (1919)
- The Vampires or, The Arch Criminals of Paris – Louis Feuillade (1915)
- The Cameraman’s Revenge – Wladyslaw Starewicz (1912)
- J’accuse – Abel Gance (1919)
