ITV - Hollywood A Celebration of the American Silent Film (1980) Part 2 In the Beginning

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 2 In the Beginning

In 1900, Hollywood was a peaceful village with sheep, goats and pigs wandering along its dusty streets. Then filmmakers arrived in search of permanent sunshine, and changed the town forever. Cecil B. DeMille directed Hollywood's first feature-length film, “The Squaw Man”, in an old stable on Vine Street. Residents watched with disapproval and amazement as the sets for D.W. Griffith's “Intolerance” reared above their bungalows. The silent films produced by Hollywood transcended national boundaries and languages to become the most powerful medium of mass entertainment the world had ever known. Includes rare footage and excerpts from THE SQUAW MAN (1914), INTOLERANCE (1916), and JOAN THE WOMAN (1916); interviews with Henry King, Allan Dwan, Agnes de Mille, Lillian Gish, Anita Loos, and much more!

Full Version Available Upon Request
Episode One Shown Here