Napoleon seen by Abel Gance
At 9.05pm on France 5 then on the france.tv platform
Completely restored and rebuilt, the Napoleon by Abel Gance is broadcast this evening on France 5 in two parts and will be available for thirty days on the france.tv platform. An event worthy of the feat that presided over the rebirth of this masterpiece of silent cinema, which had not been seen in its original version since its release in 1927.
This “large version”, dear to the filmmaker, lasting seven hours, divided into two eras, retraces seventeen years of the Emperor’s life, from the years of training at the military school of Brienne to the first victorious campaigns, including the French Revolution.
Modernity of images and special effects
It took sixteen years for the team led by Georges Mourier, under the aegis of the Cinémathèque française, to reconstruct the work in its entirety. Equipped with a new musical score composed for the occasion, screened during an exceptional cinema concert in La Seine musical at the beginning of the summer, then briefly in theaters of the Pathé network, the film will now be visible to all. This has become legendary Napoleon seen by Abel Gance it is as much a lyrical evocation of the young republican lieutenant’s almost sacrificial fate as it is a testimony to the incredible technical inventiveness of its author. And we are struck, almost a century later, by the modernity of his images and special effects.
A sort of blockbuster from the dawn of cinema, destined to equal – already – the American blockbusters of DW Griffith (Birth of a Nation, Intolerance)the film does not skimp on epic and spectacular action scenes (the escape from Corsica, the siege of Toulon), nor on editing and cutting effects aimed at immersing the viewer in the story. Tinted images, subjective camera, superimpositions, triple screen to give a panoramic effect: Abel Gance has all the boldness, revolutionizing the cinematographic grammar of the time. His film certainly has nothing to envy of the indigestible contemporary version delivered by Ridley Scott.
How does the restored version of Napoleon compare to other silent films in terms of filmmaking techniques and audience engagement?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Film Historian Dr. Eloise Martin
Time.news Editor: Good evening, and welcome to another edition of Time.news. Tonight, we have the privilege of discussing a monumental cinematic event — the restored version of Abel Gance’s Napoleon, airing at 9:05 PM on France 5. With us is Dr. Eloise Martin, a noted film historian and expert on silent cinema. Dr. Martin, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Martin: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to be here to Discuss such an iconic film.
Editor: Let’s dive right in! This restored version of Napoleon hasn’t been seen in its original format since its release in 1927. Can you tell us about the significance of this screening for cinema enthusiasts and historians alike?
Dr. Martin: Absolutely! Abel Gance’s Napoleon is often regarded as a pioneering masterpiece of silent cinema. Its ambitious techniques, such as the use of multiple cameras and innovative editing, were revolutionary for the time. This restored version, which spans seven hours and is divided into two eras, gives us a glimpse into Gance’s visionary storytelling. It preserves the artistic integrity he intended and highlights the dramatic arc of Napoleon’s life over seventeen years.
Editor: Seven hours is quite a runtime! How do you think modern audiences will respond to such a lengthy film, especially in our fast-paced viewing culture today?
Dr. Martin: That’s an interesting question! While some modern audiences might find it daunting, it offers a rare opportunity to immerse oneself in a historical narrative. Nowadays, binge-watching series has somewhat prepared viewers for extended viewing experiences, but Napoleon is different. It encourages patience and engagement, almost like participating in a grand theatrical performance. The event nature of the broadcast — split into two parts — makes it more accessible for audiences to digest.
Editor: Speaking of accessibility, the film is also available on the france.tv platform for thirty days. How important is it for historical films like this to be made accessible to a broader audience?
Dr. Martin: Accessibility is crucial for the preservation of film history. Platforms like france.tv allow a wider audience to experience films that are often relegated to niche interest groups. By making Napoleon available for a limited period, it not only preserves Gance’s work but also invites new generations of viewers to enjoy and analyze it. It helps educate the public on foundational films that have influenced the medium significantly.
Editor: Gance’s Napoleon is known for its innovative cinematography and storytelling. Can you elaborate on some of the techniques that set it apart from other silent films of its time?
Dr. Martin: Certainly! Gance’s use of a triptych screen, where three images are displayed simultaneously, was groundbreaking. This technique increased the emotional impact of key scenes. Additionally, his dynamic camera movements — something rarely seen during the silent era — brought a sense of grandeur and scale to battles, emphasizing the epic nature of Napoleon’s life. Gance’s unique approach to narrative flow and visual storytelling created a template that would influence filmmakers for decades to come.
Editor: It sounds like an incredible cinematic experience not to be missed. As we wrap up, what would you say to viewers who might be hesitant to tune in?
Dr. Martin: I’d say, take a leap! This is an opportunity to experience cinema in its truest form — a piece of history, a work of art, and a fascinating portrayal of a complex figure in history. The emotional and visual storytelling in Napoleon is powerful, and watching it in a communal setting, even virtually, can enhance the overall experience. Plus, you never know; you might discover a newfound appreciation for silent cinema!
Editor: Thank you so much, Dr. Martin, for sharing your insights with us. It’s clear that this screening of Napoleon is something truly special.
Dr. Martin: Thank you for having me! I’m excited for audiences to experience this monumental film.
Editor: Don’t miss it, everyone! Tune in tonight at 9:05 PM on France 5, and enjoy the journey into this cinematic masterpiece.