ITV - Hollywood A Celebration of the American Silent Film (1980) Part 12 Star Treatment

The award-winning team of David Gill and Kenneth Brownlow present a definitive and unparalleled look at the history of silent film in America “Hollywood,” narrated by James Mason. This 13-part series celebrates the birth of an industry, the town and people who made it all happen. People who, in a few short years, produced an enourmous range of spectacular, inventive and exciting films. From the arrival of the filmmaking pioneers early at the dawn of a new century, through the outbreak of the first World War; from the rise of romance, to the demise of the Old West; from when comedy was king, until the advent of sound. These are the stars, the scandals, the directors, producers, cameramen, stuntmen and, of course, the films themselves that created the legend we know as “Hollywood.” The series showcased, for the first time on television, the greatest silent films as they were meant to be seen – with the proper running speeds and orchestral scores. It was literally produced in the nick of time, as many of those interviewed would be deceased in a few short years – their wonderful memories lost forever. Episodes include interviews with notable directors and actors from the era along with family members of stars.

Written, Directed & Produced by Kevin Brownlow & David Gill; Thames Television Production

Part 12 Star Treatment

Producers discovered that if they didn't have a star, they didn't have a hit. Creating stars became business in itself, and soon the Hollywood Star System was born. From it came such greats as Clara Bow, Lillian Gish and John Gilbert, who inherited the title “Great Lover” from Valentino. The career of John Gilbert vividly illustrates how producers could make or break a star. When he fell in love with Greta Garbo, shrewd studio heads capitalized on their romance and teamed them in a number of successful films. But when Gilbert punched Louis B. Mayer after Mayer passed a remark about Garbo, Mayer vowed to ruin Gilbert's career–and made good on his threat. Includes rare footage and excerpts from THE MERRY WIDOW (1925), THE BIG PARADE (1925), FLESH AND THE DEVIL (1926) and LOVE (1927); interviews with Louise Brooks, Charles “Buddy” Rogers, King Vidor, Eleanor Boardman, and much more!

Full Version Available Upon Request
Episode One Shown Here