The Influence of Art Deco on American Cinema

The Rise of Art Deco and Its Cinematic Influence

In 1925, a transformative event in Paris marked the birth of a movement that would leave an indelible mark on architecture, design, and cinema—Art Deco. The Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes was a showcase of modernity, drawing millions eager to see cutting-edge styles that departed dramatically from 19th-century influences. Art Deco, characterized by vibrant line work, bold colors, and geometric forms, soon captured the imagination of designers around the world.

Among the captivated attendees was Cedric Gibbons, an American film designer whose visit would herald a new era in Hollywood. Gibbons integrated Art Deco into cinema, revolutionizing the visual landscape with films like “Our Dancing Daughters” in 1928. This film not only introduced the Art Deco aesthetic to American audiences but also starred Joan Crawford in a role that would define the flapper archetype. With no spoken dialogue, the movie employed a synchronized soundtrack, emphasizing the exuberant, party-centric lifestyle it portrayed.

Gibbons’ influence extended beyond the screen. As audiences were mesmerized by the Art Deco elegance in theaters, the wealthy began clamoring for real-life recreations of on-screen designs. Gibbons’ sets were in such demand that they influenced interior design trends among Hollywood’s elite, blurring the lines between cinematic fantasy and reality.

In celebration of a century since the Paris exposition, Film Forum, in collaboration with the Art Deco Society of New York, presents “Screen Deco,” a retrospective honoring Art Deco’s cinematic legacy. This series features classics that embody the era’s style, some of which are notoriously hard to find in streaming services, offering a rare chance for audiences to experience them in their original glory.

Films like “The Black Cat” (1934) and “Grand Hotel” (1932) showcased not just the Art Deco aesthetic but also explored the cultural shifts of the era. These films juxtaposed modernity against tradition, featuring set designs that were as much a character in the films as the actors. The architectural beauty and narrative ingenuity of these movies highlighted societal tensions and aspirations of the pre-war years.

The retrospective also includes events with critics and experts, offering insights into Art Deco’s enduring impact on film and culture. “Screen Deco” is more than a film series; it’s a celebration of a style that transformed dreams into tangible realities through its cinematic expression, preserving the history of an era where modernity began to dance on screen and in the minds of its audience.