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Innovations and Narratives in "The Great Train Robbery"
In our previous exploration of early American cinema, we discussed Edwin Stanton Porter’s influential film “Life of an American Fireman,” which showcased early attempts at using narrative structure and simultaneous action to convey a more dynamic storytelling experience. Porter’s innovations marked a significant step forward in the development of cinematic techniques, blending realism with narrative depth. This article continues our journey through the history of film by examining another of Porter’s landmark contributions: “The Great Train Robbery” (1903), a film that not only built upon his previous work but also set new benchmarks for the industry.
Introduction to “The Great Train Robbery”
Released in 1903, “The Great Train Robbery” is often hailed as a seminal work in the history of film, particularly in the genre of action and Westerns. This film was groundbreaking not only because of its technical achievements but also for its narrative ambition and the way it captivated audiences, providing them with an experience that was both thrilling and visually engaging.
The Great Train Robbery’s story is linear and with only one main plot. It was influenced by the real-life exploits of Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, making it one of the first films to be inspired by actual events, thereby adding an element of realism that was uncommon at the time. The film’s narrative, spanning just twelve minutes, was a bold portrayal of a train heist and its aftermath, illustrating Porter’s evolving ability to craft compelling stories within the confines of early film technology.
Overview of the Film
“The Great Train Robbery” utilized a series of innovative techniques that would come to define narrative cinema. Its use of cross-cutting, location shooting, and staged action sequences created a sense of excitement and realism that was revolutionary. The film’s narrative is straightforward yet effective: it follows a group of bandits who execute a daring train robbery, leading to a dramatic chase and shootout. Unlike Porter’s earlier works, which often relied on linear, sequential shots, “The Great Train Robbery” employed multiple narrative threads that intersected, enhancing the suspense and depth of the story.
A few points to notice in the film
In the opening scene, we witness the robbers breaking in, while through the window, a train is visible approaching in the background. This effectively demonstrates Porter’s method for depicting simultaneous events.
During the sequence where the robbers flee from the train, the camera employs both a pan and a tilt to capture the action, enhancing the dynamic feel of the chase.
Upon reaching their hideout, it isn’t immediately apparent that they have arrived at a safe place until Porter pans over to reveal their horses tied up nearby. This technique adds a layer of suspense or dramatic effect to the scene.
The story then returns to the cashier who was robbed at the start of the film, only after the initial plotline involving the robbers concludes. This shift provides a reasonable resolution to managing simultaneous storylines.
In the following scene, the townspeople are unaware of the robbery until the cashier enters and informs them, initiating a new sequence of events. This demonstrates the narrative technique of weaving multiple simultaneous stories, a method Porter effectively used to enrich the storytelling.
This film stood as a pinnacle of cinema at the time and it would take another seven years before another film of such influence was made.
In this article, we explored the groundbreaking aspects of Edwin Stanton Porter’s film, “The Great Train Robbery,” highlighting its significant role in the evolution of narrative cinema. Porter’s film is noted for its advanced use of simultaneous action, dynamic camera movements, and a narrative structure that intertwined multiple plotlines, enhancing the dramatic effect and deepening audience engagement. Through techniques such as panning to reveal crucial elements and employing cuts to manage multiple story threads, Porter not only captivated audiences but also set new standards for storytelling in cinema. “The Great Train Robbery” represented a pinnacle in early cinema, showcasing how filmmakers could weave complex stories and execute them with technical finesse. Its influence was profound, marking a significant point in film history, and it would be years before another film achieved a similar impact. Join Us Next Week
Deepen Your Knowledge with these books:
- Before the Nickelodeon: Edwin S. Porter and the Edison Manufacturing Company – Authored by Charles Musser, this book offers an in-depth exploration of Porter’s career and his pivotal role at the Edison Manufacturing Company. It provides valuable insights into the early development of cinematic techniques and Porter’s innovative contributions.
The Emergence of Cinema: The American Screen to 1907
Also by Charles Musser, this volume examines the formative years of American cinema up to 1907, contextualizing Porter’s work within the broader evolution of film during that era.The Great Train Robbery (1903) – Directed by Edwin S. Porter, this seminal film is available for viewing on YouTube. Experiencing the film firsthand will enhance your appreciation of Porter’s narrative and technical innovations.
An Evening’s Entertainment: The Age of the Silent Feature Picture, 1915–1928 –Richard Koszarski examines the silent film era, offering context to the narrative and stylistic developments that followed the foundational work of early filmmakers like Porter.
- The Silent Cinema Reader – Edited by Lee Grieveson and Peter Krämer, this anthology compiles essential essays and articles on silent cinema, covering various aspects of film history, theory, and criticism.
- The Oxford History of World Cinema – Edited by Geoffrey Nowell-Smith, this extensive reference provides a global perspective on film history, including detailed sections on early American cinema and its pioneers.
