INTOLERANCE

Cinemavixion Review

D.W. Griffith's monumental epic, "Intolerance," released in 1916, remains a landmark achievement in cinematic history, a powerful and ambitious exploration of its titular theme across four distinct historical narratives. The film masterfully interweaves the story of a modern young woman, torn apart by societal prejudice, with tales from ancient Babylon, Judea during the time of Christ, and 16th-century Paris leading up to the St. Bartholomew's Day Massacre. Griffith's innovative use of parallel editing to connect these disparate eras was groundbreaking, amplifying the film's thematic resonance. Starring Lillian Gish, Robert Harron, and Mae Marsh, "Intolerance" was a commercial gamble for Griffith but has since been lauded for its scale, emotional depth, and enduring social commentary. Its critical reception, reflected in its near-perfect aggregate scores, solidifies its status as a profoundly influential work that continues to provoke thought and admiration.