Film Overview"The Master and the Man" is a quiet brief movie from 1911, directed by D.W. Griffith. It is a considerable contribution in the advancement of cinematic storytelling, including engaging plot development within its brief period. Based on Tolstoy's short story of the very same name, the film digs deep into the human psyche, exposing the numerous tones of ethical uncertainties and the intricacies of human relationships.
PlotThe plot of "The Master and the Man" revolves around a rich and indulgent landowner, who is contrasted drastically against the upright worths of a simple peasant employed by him. The landowner is cruel and self-centered; he treats his workers poorly, enjoys heavy drinking, and shows no remorse for his unethical actions. On the other hand, the peasant, Nikita, is kind and humble, dealing with everybody with kindness and regard.
Dispute and ResolutionThe primary dispute of the film occurs when, out of jealousy, the landowner deserts Nikita in a freezing wilderness. The film's climax reaches its peak when the freezing cold, on top of the scotch the landowner had been consuming, causes him to end up being lost and disoriented in the snow. Plot twists happen when the abandoned Nikita unexpectedly discovers him and, regardless of the harsh treatment he had received, selflessly conserves the landowner, risking his own life at the same time. This heartwarming act of compassion and forgiveness triggers the landowner to deeply reconsider his actions, leading to his moral change.
Characters and PerformancesThe characters in "The Master and the Man" are impressive for their psychological depth and ethical complexity. George Nichols offers a remarkable performance as the harsh and arbitrary landowner, efficiently portraying his transformation from a self-centered brute to a male who has found out the mistake of his methods. Likewise, Frank Opperman puts up a similarly compelling serve as the humble and brave Nikita.
Cinematic TechniquesFor its time, "The Master and the Man" was an achievement in the art of cinematic storytelling. It made efficient use of both mise-en-scène and connection modifying, which was innovative for that period. With in-depth sets, the film effectively developed an aesthetically rich portrayal of the extreme winter that becomes a substantial element in the narrative. The huge, empty snow-covered landscapes enhanced the feelings of risk and anguish, crucial for the story's climax.
Conclusion"The Master and the Man" stands apart for its style of ethical awakening and redemption. Although the visuals remain in black and white, the film does an impressive job of representing the different tones of human characters and their development. It's not just about an extreme winter season journey, however also about a man's journey inward, coming to terms with his flaws, and choosing to change his life for the better. The progressive narrative, character advancement, visual storytelling, and psychological depth make "The Master and the Man" a classic worth remembering.
Top Cast
