Review of The Birth of a Nation (1915) by Simon H — 23 Jun 2014

What is described as the first American epic feature is an interesting watch. Separated into two 90 minute acts, the film showcases the Civil War, the assassination of Li.

Ncoln and the birth of the Ku Klux Klan. The first act I felt was particularly dull with very little dialogue shown between characters. There are the odd moment which comes across as interesting and makes you watch for that little moment. The same applies to the second half, however, there is something else that keeps you watching.

It shouldn't be easy to guess how the film portrays black community when the plot revolves around the KKK. The film is extremely racist with the black characters portrayed as either slaves or as the villains that deserve the abuse. What is also remarkable is the obvious fact of the black characters being played by white actors who have been blackened up. Rather than enjoy it, you sit amazed that this was actually created.

It is an interesting piece of cinema to witness but not something which can be represented as enjoyable. Perhaps if it kept to just the Lincoln storyline then it could come across as enjoyable somehow. The only way this gains an extra mark from me is how impressive it looks for its time. Money was clearly spent well on it, whether you consider it for good or not.