A display of innovative techniques

Rating: Null/10 (15 September 2004)

This film, though offending to some, displays techniques that were new to the film industry in 1915. The use of gels to create color (as seen in the KKK scenes) and the use of vignettes (close-ups to portray emotion) were some of the first examples of these styles which we now take for granted. This film also examines the Civil War and Reconstruction from a point of view rarely studied in history classes. I found it fascinating to watch the Southerners treat the Northerners as invaders and criminals while applauding the Southern rebels.
I would not go so far as to say that this film should be banned or censored. I feel that this film is innovative, historically fascinating, and an important part of film history.