Review of The Birth of a Nation (1915) by Frog B — 01 Mar 2010

This movie is one of the few that portrays the American Civil war from the perspective of the South. While it seems taboo and rather racist at face value, it still manages to deliver a very good message and be entertaining as well. It's portrayal of the Lincoln Assassination was exquisite with historical accuracy. I don't think I have ever seen a more evil depiction of John Wilkes Booth.

While the films display of Blacks was tasteless, it was only in the sense of its use of "Black Face". There mannerisms were not over the top and there were real black people in it as well. Even though Blacks were the antagonists in this movie, their skin color was not the main source of justification. In fact, one of the movies main messages seemed to be that power can be deadly regardless of who is in possession of it.

A side from ideals and social taboos "Birth of a Nation" managed to create captivating characters that could be identified and sympathized with. It felt strangely surreal rooting for the Ku Klux Klan.

This film was bold not only in the controversial sense, but in terms of the American film industry at the time. In 1915 there were only two major film companies in existence, Paramount and Universal; so the idea of introducing a film of over three hours in length was certainly interesting one. It seems that many movie goers have a hard time watching a movie that long today.

So if you are in the mood for a classic among classics, I say that this is one movie you should definitely get your hands on.