Lyrical Nitrate

This documentary features a collection of film clips from 1905 to 1915, highlighting the craftsmanship of early filmmakers. The footage comes from the Jean Desmet Archive of the Netherlands Film Museum, emphasizing the historical significance of silent cinema.

Lyrical Nitrate is structured as an opera about love and death, accompanied by music from composers such as Bizet, Masek, and Puccini. This artistic approach adds a unique layer to the viewing experience, making it a distinctive exploration of early 20th-century film. The film also reflects on the fragility of old nitrate films, preserving a significant part of cinematic history.