Hansel and Gretel

About This Movie

So, 'Hansel and Gretel' from 1909 is an interesting piece of cinema history. Directed by J. Searle Dawley, it's one of the earliest adaptations of the beloved Grimm fairytale. The film has this enchanting yet eerie atmosphere, typical of silent films, you know? The pacing feels deliberate, almost dreamlike, allowing viewers to absorb the haunting visuals. The use of practical effects, especially in the forest scenes, adds a layer of charm that you don't see in modern CGI. Performances are quite expressive, relying heavily on physicality, which is fascinating to watch. What stands out is how it captures the darker themes of the story, not just the sugar-coated version. A true artifact of early storytelling in film, really.

Considered one of the first adaptations of the tale. · Captures the darker themes of the original story. · Unique for its practical effects in early cinema.