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May 18, 2017

Sunrise: A Song of Two Humans (1927)

7:30pm
Adobe Chapel, 3963 Conde Street in Old Town San Diego

Directed by F.W. Murnau, this story of betrayal and redemption earned Oscars at the very first Academy Awards ceremony in 1929 for the most "Unique And Artistic Picture," Best Actress (Janet Gaynor) and Best Cinematography. The love and loyalty of a farmer and his wife are put to the ultimate test in this classic silent film.

Bored with his wife (Janet Gaynor), their baby and the dull routine of farm life, a farmer (George O'Brien) falls under the spell of a flirtatious city girl (Margaret Livingston) who convinces him to drown his wife so they can escape together. When his wife becomes suspicious of his plan and runs away to the city, the farmer pursues her, slowly regaining her trust as the two rediscover their love for each other.

"Sunrise isn't just an essential silent film; it is, in many ways, the essential silent film. Helmed by German director F.W. Murnau and brought to life by actors Janet Gaynor and George O'Brien, Sunrise represents, at once, both the pinnacle of artistic cinematic quality in the silent form and the end of an era as well. It was as if silent film reached such a height with Sunrise, that is was impossible to go any further so the world may as well usher in sound. That's a bit of an overstatement but only by a little. Murnau brings so much invention and effortless blending of realism and expressionism to the fore that most other films, silent or otherwise, pale in comparison."—Greg Ferrara, TCM.com.

"Exquisite silent film is just as powerful today as when it was made, telling simple story of farmer who plans to murder his wife, led on by another woman. Triumph of direction, camerawork, art direction, and performances, all hauntingly beautiful."—Leonard Maltin.

When Thursday, May 18
Time 7:30pm · 79 minutes
Cost $10
Seating is limited; advance ticket purchase is suggested

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Call (619) 297-7511
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2476 San Diego Avenue in historic Old Town San Diego

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