Intolerance! Epic Romance and Social Commentary Through the Ages

Intolerance! Epic Romance and Social Commentary Through the Ages

“Intolerance”, the 1916 silent film masterpiece directed by the legendary D.W. Griffith, is not just a movie; it’s an experience. It’s a whirlwind journey through history, traversing four distinct eras—Babylonian times, the crucifixion of Christ, the St. Bartholomew’s Day Massacre in 16th-century France, and the modern era in America—all interwoven to explore the timeless theme of intolerance and its devastating consequences.

Griffith’s ambition was colossal. He wanted to create a film that would not only entertain but also provoke thought and discussion about the destructive nature of prejudice and persecution. “Intolerance,” with its staggering scope and groundbreaking cinematic techniques, aimed to achieve precisely that.

A Tapestry of Tragedy: The Intertwined Stories

The film unfolds through four parallel narratives:

  • Babylon: We witness the tragic tale of the “Mountain Girl,” a young Babylonian woman who falls victim to the lustful desires of the King’s son. She is ultimately condemned for her innocence, highlighting the brutal consequences of unchecked power and societal bias.

  • Judea: This segment depicts the final days of Jesus Christ, emphasizing the injustice and persecution he faced at the hands of religious authorities. The powerful imagery and haunting performances evoke a profound sense of sorrow and empathy for the persecuted savior.

  • France: The St. Bartholomew’s Day Massacre, a horrifying episode of religious violence in 16th-century France, serves as a stark reminder of the danger of fanaticism. The film vividly portrays the brutality and chaos unleashed by religious intolerance, leaving viewers with a chilling sense of dread.

  • America: This modern story centers around a young couple whose love is thwarted by social prejudice. Their struggles mirror the themes explored in the other narratives, demonstrating that intolerance continues to plague humanity even in the “modern” world.

Technical Brilliance and Cinematic Innovation

“Intolerance” was revolutionary for its time. Griffith employed innovative filmmaking techniques such as close-ups, parallel editing, and massive set pieces to create a truly immersive cinematic experience.

  • Close-Ups: The use of close-ups allowed viewers to connect with the characters on a deeper level, magnifying their emotions and anxieties.

  • Parallel Editing: By cutting back and forth between different eras and storylines, Griffith created a sense of urgency and interconnectedness. This technique emphasized the recurring nature of intolerance throughout history.

  • Grand Scale: The film’s massive set pieces, elaborate costumes, and thousands of extras transported viewers to ancient Babylon, biblical Judea, and medieval France.

The impact of “Intolerance” on cinematic language was profound. It paved the way for future filmmakers to experiment with new techniques and push the boundaries of storytelling.

Beyond Entertainment: A Call to Action

While “Intolerance” is undoubtedly a masterpiece of cinema, its true power lies in its message. Griffith sought to expose the dangers of prejudice and bigotry by showcasing their devastating consequences across different eras and cultures. The film serves as a stark reminder that intolerance is not merely a historical phenomenon but a constant threat that demands our attention.

A Legacy Enduring:

“Intolerance” remains relevant today, reminding us of the fragility of peace and the importance of promoting tolerance and understanding in our own time. Its timeless message continues to resonate with audiences around the world, inspiring dialogue and reflection on the nature of humanity and its capacity for both good and evil.

The Cast:

  • Lillian Gish as “The Mountain Girl” (Babylon)
  • Dorothy Gish as “The Mother” (Judea)
  • Mae Marsh as “The Woman” (France)
  • Robert Harron as “The Boy” (America)

Themes Explored:

  • Intolerance

  • Prejudice and Discrimination

  • The Consequences of Violence

  • Love and Sacrifice

  • Redemption

Production Highlights:

  • Director: D.W. Griffith
  • Studio: Triangle Film Corporation
  • Runtime: 3 hours and 15 minutes
  • Music: Joseph Carl Breil (original score)
  • Availability:

Various restored versions are available on DVD, Blu-ray, and streaming platforms.