Season of Silents: A Christmas Carol (1910)

I'm revisiting a well traveled story today and watching a short version of A Christmas Carol from A Christmas Past DVD. The Internet Movie Database lists 25 different versions of this tale on film, and this is the second version listed, the first one being from 1908. This was filmed at Thomas Edison studios and since it is short, the action is condensed down to important scenes, with a basic knowledge of the story to carry it along. This short is presented with a score by Al Kryszak, relying heavily on violins that, to these ears, have an unpleasant, discordant sound. Perhaps it was an attempt to match the unpleasant character of Scrooge. Scrooge is played by Marc McDermott, who was a prolific actor from 1909 to 1928, and appeared in He Who Gets Slapped and Flesh and the Devil.

Season of Silents: A Trap for Santa (1909)

A Trap for Santa is a short film by D.W. Griffith, who's well known for developing many film techniques that are used today. I have not seen any of his feature length films, which may be unusual for a silent film enthusiast, but I have taken a different path to silent film. This is one of several short films of his I've seen, most of which have been thought-provoking films that involve social issues. This short film can be found on A Christmas Past, a collection of Christmas silent movies, which gives an interesting look at Christmases in the early 1900s. Al Kryszak is responsible for the original score, using violins, viola, cello, piano, harp, and a handbell choir. At times it is pleasant and other times discordant. I don't find that it always fits the action onscreen, but it's got a holiday vibe.

Before we even see the family we are informed that there is no work for the father (Henry B. Walthall), and that misery and want are the family's lot. The mother certainly looks miserable while their little waif of a daughter appears to be gnawing on a chunk of bread.