Intolerance! A Silent Epic Exploring Love, War, and Religious Persecution Across Millennia.

“Intolerance,” D.W. Griffith’s 1916 silent epic, stands as a monumental achievement in cinematic history, a film that transcends its era to deliver a powerful and timely message about the destructive nature of intolerance and the enduring power of love. This ambitious project interweaves four separate storylines spanning different periods of history: the ancient Babylonian Empire, the story of Jesus Christ, the 16th century French Wars of Religion (the St. Bartholomew’s Day massacre), and a modern-day American social drama.

Griffith employs innovative editing techniques to juxtapose these narratives, highlighting the cyclical nature of intolerance and its devastating consequences across generations. The film’s ambition is breathtaking – it utilizes elaborate sets, thousands of extras, and groundbreaking special effects for its time, resulting in a visual spectacle unmatched by any other film of its era.

Let’s delve into each story arc:

• Babylonian Empire: This segment depicts the tragic love affair between a princess and a lowly slave. Their forbidden romance is thwarted by jealous rivals and ultimately ends in heartbreaking loss.

• The Story of Jesus Christ: Griffith’s interpretation of Christ’s crucifixion highlights the themes of persecution, sacrifice, and redemption.

• St. Bartholomew’s Day Massacre: This brutal episode from French history vividly portrays the religious intolerance that led to the slaughter of thousands of Huguenots (Protestants) by Catholic mobs.

• Modern-Day America: This storyline focuses on a working-class family grappling with social injustice, prejudice, and economic hardship, illustrating how intolerance continues to plague even modern society.

The cast of “Intolerance” is truly remarkable, featuring some of the most renowned actors of the silent era:

Griffith’s masterful direction brings these stories to life, capturing both the grandeur and tragedy of each historical moment. He utilizes dramatic camera angles, evocative lighting, and powerful close-ups to amplify the emotional impact of the film. “Intolerance” also features an iconic score composed by Joseph Carl Breil, which enhances the film’s epic scope and intensifies its already potent themes.

While “Intolerance” was initially met with mixed reactions due to its controversial subject matter and Griffith’s previous association with the racially charged “Birth of a Nation,” it has since been recognized as a cinematic masterpiece. Its timeless message about the need for tolerance, understanding, and compassion continues to resonate with audiences today. The film serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of prejudice and the enduring power of love in the face of adversity.

Themes that Resonate:

“Intolerance” tackles several complex themes, making it not just an entertaining spectacle but also a thought-provoking piece of cinema:

• The Destructive Nature of Intolerance: This theme is woven throughout the entire film. From religious persecution to social injustice, Griffith vividly portrays the devastating consequences of prejudice and hatred.

• The Universality of Love: Despite the darkness and despair depicted in the various storylines, “Intolerance” ultimately celebrates the enduring power of love and compassion.

• Redemption through Sacrifice: The story of Jesus Christ serves as a powerful example of how sacrifice can lead to redemption, both on an individual and societal level.

The Legacy of “Intolerance”:

Griffith’s “Intolerance” remains a landmark achievement in cinematic history. Its innovative filmmaking techniques, ambitious storytelling, and powerful themes have inspired generations of filmmakers. The film’s enduring message about the need for tolerance continues to be relevant today, making it a timeless classic that deserves to be seen and appreciated by audiences everywhere.

Further Exploration:

For those interested in delving deeper into “Intolerance” and its historical context, I recommend exploring these resources:

• The Criterion Collection DVD/Blu-Ray: This edition features a restored version of the film with an insightful commentary track by film scholar Robert Birchard.
• “D.W. Griffith: Master of the Movies” by Kevin Brownlow: This comprehensive biography provides detailed insights into Griffith’s life and career, including his groundbreaking work on “Intolerance.”

“Intolerance” is not simply a silent film; it’s an experience that transcends time and language, urging us to reflect on our own prejudices and strive for a more tolerant and compassionate world.