The Little American ( 1917 )

The Little American (1917): A Silent Testament to War and Propaganda

The Little American, a 1917 silent film directed by Cecil B. DeMille, stands as a significant, albeit controversial, piece of cinematic history. Released during the height of World War I, it served as a powerful propaganda tool, aimed at swaying American public opinion toward intervention in the European conflict. While the film showcases DeMille's early directorial prowess and features a compelling performance from Mary Pickford, its overt pro-Allied messaging and sometimes simplistic portrayal of the war necessitate a critical examination of its historical context and artistic merit.

Production and Context: War as a Backdrop

The United States initially maintained a stance of neutrality at the outset of World War I in 1914. However, as the war progressed and stories of German atrocities circulated, public sentiment began to shift. Films like The Little American played a crucial role in this shift, capitalizing on nationalist fervor and portraying Germany as a brutal aggressor. DeMille, already a prominent figure in Hollywood, used his influence and filmmaking skills to create a narrative designed to evoke empathy for the Allied cause and to ultimately persuade American audiences to support intervention.

The film's production coincided with heightened anxieties surrounding the war. German U-boat attacks on civilian ships, including the sinking of the Lusitania in 1915, fueled anti-German sentiment. The Little American directly addresses these anxieties, depicting similar acts of violence and depicting the horrors faced by civilians in war-torn Europe. DeMille leveraged the power of cinema to translate news headlines and public fears into a tangible and emotionally resonant experience for viewers.

Synopsis: Innocence Abroad and the Horrors of War

The film follows Angela Moore (Mary Pickford), a wealthy and idealistic young American woman, as she travels to Europe. She is torn between two cousins: Karl von Austreim (Raymond Hatton), a German officer, and an unnamed French cousin (Jack Holt). Initially, Angela embraces a romanticized view of Europe and its history. However, her perspective dramatically shifts as she witnesses the brutal realities of war firsthand.

Angela's journey becomes a stark portrayal of the devastation wrought by the conflict. She witnesses the bombing of a hospital, the mistreatment of civilians, and the overall carnage of war. The film meticulously contrasts her initial innocence with the grim realities she encounters, emphasizing the moral imperative for America to intervene and protect the innocent from German aggression.

The film also explores themes of betrayal and divided loyalties. Angela is horrified by Karl's allegiance to the German war machine and witnesses his participation in acts of brutality. This betrayal serves as a powerful symbol of the conflict tearing apart families and communities, and further reinforces the film's anti-German message.

Ultimately, Angela is caught in the crossfire and experiences significant personal loss, solidifying her conviction that America must join the war to fight for justice and freedom. The film concludes with a strong call to action, urging American audiences to support the war effort and contribute to the Allied victory.

Mary Pickford: America's Sweetheart as a Propaganda Tool

Mary Pickford, known as America's Sweetheart, was a major box office draw at the time. Her casting as Angela Moore was strategically significant. Pickford's image of innocence and purity was carefully cultivated, and her presence in The Little American lent the film a sense of moral authority and amplified its emotional impact. Audiences were more likely to be swayed by a film featuring a beloved figure who embodied American values. Her vulnerability and subsequent outrage at the injustices of war made her a relatable and compelling figure for audiences, further strengthening the film's pro-Allied stance.

Pickford's performance is notable for its range, transitioning from youthful naiveté to profound grief and righteous anger. She effectively conveys the emotional toll of war, making Angela's transformation believable and resonating with viewers concerned about the safety of their loved ones in Europe.

DeMille's Direction: Spectacle and Sentimentality

Cecil B. DeMille was a master of spectacle, and The Little American showcases his ability to create visually striking and emotionally charged scenes. The film features large-scale battle sequences, dramatic explosions, and meticulous set design, immersing the audience in the chaotic environment of war. DeMille skillfully employs these elements to heighten the film's emotional impact and reinforce its pro-Allied message.

However, DeMille's direction also leans heavily on sentimentality. The film often relies on melodramatic tropes and simplistic characterizations to evoke emotional responses from the audience. While these techniques were effective in their time, they can appear somewhat heavy-handed to modern viewers. The contrast between the idealized portrayal of the Allies and the demonized depiction of the Germans is particularly striking, reflecting the propaganda aims of the film.

Propaganda and its Impact: Shaping Public Opinion

The Little American is undeniably a propaganda film. Its overt pro-Allied message, its demonization of Germany, and its emotional appeals were all designed to influence American public opinion. The film skillfully tapped into existing anxieties and prejudices, presenting a clear and compelling narrative that supported intervention in the war.

The film's impact on public opinion is difficult to quantify precisely, but there is little doubt that it contributed to the growing support for American involvement in World War I. Its widespread distribution and Mary Pickford's popularity ensured that its message reached a large audience. By presenting a romanticized vision of the Allied cause and a horrifying depiction of German aggression, The Little American played a significant role in shaping the narrative of the war in the minds of American viewers.

The film's blatant use of propaganda raises ethical questions about the role of cinema in shaping public opinion during times of conflict. While propaganda can be effective in mobilizing support for a cause, it also carries the risk of distorting reality and promoting harmful stereotypes. A critical examination of The Little American requires acknowledging its propaganda aims and considering the ethical implications of using film as a tool for political persuasion.

Criticism and Legacy: A Historical Artifact

The Little American has faced criticism for its simplistic portrayal of the war and its blatant propaganda. Some critics have argued that the film relies too heavily on stereotypes and emotional manipulation, sacrificing historical accuracy for the sake of political persuasion. Others have criticized its melodramatic tone and its lack of nuance in depicting the complexities of the conflict.

Despite these criticisms, The Little American remains a valuable historical artifact. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the mindset of Americans during World War I and reveals the powerful role that cinema played in shaping public opinion. The film's overt propaganda, while problematic, provides a valuable case study for understanding the techniques and strategies employed by filmmakers to influence audiences during times of war.

Furthermore, the film's significance extends beyond its historical context. It showcases DeMille's early directorial talent and features a compelling performance from Mary Pickford, demonstrating the power of star power in shaping cinematic narratives. While its propaganda aims may be seen as a flaw, they also highlight the enduring power of cinema to shape perceptions and influence behavior.

Conclusion: A Product of its Time

The Little American is a complex and contradictory film. It is a powerful piece of propaganda, a showcase for DeMille's directorial talent, and a testament to Mary Pickford's star power. While its simplistic portrayal of the war and its overt pro-Allied message may be problematic to modern viewers, it remains a valuable historical artifact that sheds light on the mindset of Americans during World War I and the role that cinema played in shaping public opinion. A critical viewing of The Little American requires acknowledging its historical context, recognizing its propaganda aims, and considering the ethical implications of using film as a tool for political persuasion. Only then can we fully appreciate its significance as a product of its time and a reflection of the anxieties and aspirations of a nation on the brink of war.