What's Happening?
The Harvard Film Archive is presenting "The Cold Heart Is More Precious Than Diamonds: The Cinema of Graham Greene," a film series showcasing 11 adaptations of Graham Greene's literary works. The series, running through September 19, highlights Greene's significant
connection to cinema, both as an occasional screenwriter—notably for "The Third Man" (1949)—and as a film reviewer in the 1930s. Greene's writing, which includes both serious fiction and what he termed 'entertainments,' has been adapted into three dozen films. The archive's selection features works by renowned directors such as John Ford, Fritz Lang, George Cukor, and Carol Reed, who is particularly associated with Greene's cinematic legacy. Notable screenings include Reed's "The Third Man," which will be shown in a new 35mm print, and "The Fallen Idol." The series also includes adaptations of Greene's 'entertainments' like "Ministry of Fear," "This Gun for Hire," "Confidential Agent," and "Our Man in Havana." The title of the series is derived from Greene's novel "The Heart of the Matter," the 1953 film version of which will also be screened.
Why It's Important?
This film series is important for several reasons, particularly in the context of cinematic and literary studies in the U.S. It offers a unique opportunity for American audiences, especially those in the academic and film communities, to engage with the extensive filmography derived from Graham Greene's influential writing. Greene's ability to craft narratives that translate effectively to the screen, appealing to both critical and popular tastes, underscores his lasting impact on storytelling across mediums. The inclusion of films by prominent directors like John Ford and Fritz Lang demonstrates the caliber of talent drawn to Greene's stories, highlighting the enduring appeal of his themes of moral ambiguity, espionage, and human desperation. For film students and enthusiasts, the series provides a valuable educational experience, allowing for a deeper understanding of adaptation theory, directorial interpretations, and the evolution of cinematic techniques through different eras. Furthermore, by presenting these films, the Harvard Film Archive reinforces its role as a crucial cultural institution dedicated to preserving and exhibiting significant cinematic works, contributing to the broader appreciation of film as an art form in the United States.
What's Next?
The Harvard Film Archive's series will continue with scheduled screenings through September 19. Upcoming viewings include "The Fallen Idol" on August 21 and September 4, "Ministry of Fear" on August 22 and 30, "This Gun for Hire" on August 22, "Confidential Agent" on August 24, and "The Heart of the Matter" on August 28. "Our Man in Havana" is slated for August 29, and "Went the Day Well?" for August 31. "The Third Man" will have multiple screenings on September 4, 5, 6, and 19, with the final film, George Cukor's "Travels with My Aunt," closing the series on September 19. Audiences interested in specific films or directors will need to consult the archive's schedule to plan their attendance. The series is expected to draw film enthusiasts, academics, and students, fostering discussions around Greene's literary and cinematic legacy. The Harvard Film Archive will likely continue its mission of curating and presenting other significant film retrospectives and series in the future, maintaining its role as a key institution for film culture.
Beyond the Headlines
Beyond the immediate screenings, this series delves into the deeper cultural and artistic implications of literary adaptation. Graham Greene's unique blend of 'serious fiction' and 'entertainments' raises questions about the perceived divide between high art and popular culture, and how these categories are navigated in film. His consistent appeal to filmmakers, from classic Hollywood directors to European auteurs, suggests a universal resonance in his exploration of human nature, morality, and the complexities of faith and doubt. The series also implicitly highlights the role of film archives like Harvard's in preserving cinematic history and making it accessible. In an era dominated by digital content, the presentation of films in formats like a new 35mm print for "The Third Man" underscores the importance of experiencing cinema as it was originally intended, appreciating the craft of cinematography and projection. This initiative contributes to a broader discourse on film preservation, the art of adaptation, and the enduring power of storytelling across different artistic mediums.
