The 1914 film 'The Squaw Man' holds a special place in the annals of cinema history. Directed by Cecil B. DeMille and Oscar C. Apfel, it was the first feature-length film to be shot in what is now Hollywood. This silent Western not only marked DeMille's directorial debut but also set the stage for Hollywood's emergence as the epicenter of the film industry. The film's production and its subsequent success were pivotal in shaping the future of American
cinema.
The Birth of a Film
'The Squaw Man' was adapted from a 1905 stage play by Edwin Milton Royle. The film's production was spearheaded by the Jesse L. Lasky Feature Play Company, which was co-founded by DeMille. Initially, the production team planned to shoot the film in Flagstaff, Arizona, but logistical challenges led them to relocate to Los Angeles. This decision inadvertently laid the groundwork for Hollywood's future as the heart of the film industry.
DeMille and his team rented a barn at the corner of Selma and Vine Streets, which served as their studio and production office. This location, now known as the Lasky-DeMille Barn, is a historic site and home to the Hollywood Heritage Museum. The film's production began on December 29, 1913, and wrapped up by January 20, 1914. DeMille's innovative approach to filmmaking, including his emphasis on lighting and outdoor scenes, was evident from the start.
A New Era in Filmmaking
' The Squaw Man' was groundbreaking not only for its location but also for its length. At 74 minutes, it was considered a feature-length film, a rarity at the time. The film's narrative follows James Wynnegate, played by Dustin Farnum, who escapes to Wyoming after being wrongfully accused of embezzlement. The story unfolds with themes of love, betrayal, and redemption, set against the backdrop of the American West.
The film's success was immediate and profound. It grossed more than ten times its budget, proving that feature-length films could be commercially viable. This success encouraged other filmmakers to explore longer narratives, paving the way for the feature films that dominate the industry today.
Legacy and Impact
The impact of 'The Squaw Man' extends beyond its box office success. It established Hollywood as the film capital of the world, attracting filmmakers and studios to the area. DeMille's career was launched with this film, and he went on to become one of the most influential directors in cinema history.
Moreover, 'The Squaw Man' was remade twice by DeMille, once as a silent film in 1918 and again as a talkie in 1931, making it the only film to be successfully remade three times by the same director. This speaks to the enduring appeal and significance of the story and its place in film history.
In conclusion, 'The Squaw Man' was more than just a film; it was a milestone that marked the beginning of Hollywood's rise and the evolution of feature-length filmmaking. Its production and success laid the foundation for the cinematic landscape we know today.
