Watching the oldest of feature-length films, generally 5 reels or more, is such a trip, as much as any modern high fantasy. The vision of social values and culture of an entire century ago is curious in and of itself, but the manner in which movies were made seems extraordinary. And that's to say nothing of preservation efforts, which sometimes means reassembling a complete print from bits and pieces of several others, and possibly translating intertitles for the new edition - in 2022, we take for granted how ubiquitous cinema is, and how readily titles are maintained. With all this firmly in mind, 1917 Italian drama 'Malombra' is not be as immediately grabbing and precious as some of its contemporaries or successors in the silent era, nor ultimately as essential, but it's nonetheless a rich viewing experience that deserves remembrance. It does, however, also have issues that sadly drag it down.
What greets us is perhaps modest compared to the advanced techniques and technology of the film industry that developed hereafter into the monstrosity we know today. All the same, one can't help but admire the great work that was poured into this feature. The filming locations are fabulous, and the set design and decoration as well. Costume design, hair and makeup work, and props are excellent, distinct and fetching. The fundamental arrangement of many scenes is simply grand, as many extras fill carefully realized spaces while festooned with vibrant period clothing. Moreover, just as much as these basic elements of the title's craft, it's easy to look at acting in features so old and find it a far cry from what modern viewers are accustomed to. And that impression isn't entirely wrong; for lack of verbal dialogue or sound, performances through much of the silent era were broadly characterized by exaggerated body language and facial expressions to communicate thoughts and emotions, in no small part resembling theatrical productions in that capacity. Still, it's no less of a challenge to carry the spark of artistry by physical manifestation alone, but the cast manage to do so, conveying much while saying nothing. Enjoying the spotlight of the lead role, of course Lyda Borelli stands out most of all and is given the most opportunity to demonstrate her skills.
Despite being so far removed from modern viewing experiences, the construction of 'Malombra' and the contributions of its cast are no less appreciable. The writing is another question. As a matter of comparison between eras the storytelling also comes across as a trifle peculiar, and even other films of the timeframe could boast a more nuanced hand: there's an unmistakable directness to some silent pictures, and this is one of them. The plot moves with a discrete "A to B to C" progression, slightly stilted for the fact of it, and expository intertitles between scenes somewhat emphasize this. It's a method that seems relatively unsophisticated, and that the approach became increasingly rare over time with the further development of the medium cements that notion. Yet even putting this aside, 'Malombra' is troubled. Maybe reading the original novel would provide some illumination, yet the fact remains that in my opinion Carmine Gallone's film pointedly lacks narrative clarity. Some characters are introduced with little or no meaningful explanation to be given at any time of who they are, what their relationship is to others, or what their place is in the story. The character arc of the protagonist advances in fits and starts, and within the last 15-20 minutes makes a leap that in my mind doesn't flow naturally from what preceded it. I'm not even sure what exactly happens at the climax. The broad strokes of the plot are decisive enough, and duly enticing; the details are heavily muddled. This is deeply unfortunate, as the end result is a feeling that we're seeing a puzzle that is missing several pieces.
There are some great ideas here at large, and by all means no small amount of fine work went into it. Would that the writing of the feature we see were given as much attentive, mindful care as the other aspects. Why, between lacking articulateness and - at the same time - definite excess, this seems at times to drag even though it's a mere 75 minutes long. Needless to say, 'Malombra' isn't a picture liable to appeal to anyone who isn't already enamored of the silent era, and even for silent fans I think it falls short standing next to others. Even though it has undeniable problems, however, the feature bears value for having survived the ravages of time, and its flaws do not wholly overshadow the worth of the content. There's no reason to go out of your way to find this, and one should keep their expectations in check, but if you happen to come across it, 'Malombra' is still a passably enjoyable movie.
2 out of 2 found this helpful.
Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
