Auction of Souls

About This Movie

Auction of Souls (1919) stands out in early cinema, delving into the harrowing experience of the Armenian Genocide through the eyes of Arshaluys Mardiganian, who portrays herself. The film, based on her memoirs, weaves together elements of drama, history, and romance, creating a haunting atmosphere that resonates long after viewing. You can feel the weight of the narrative in the pacing—it's deliberate, almost oppressive at times, which amplifies the themes of survival and memory. The practical effects, combined with Mardiganian's raw performance, add a layer of authenticity that was quite groundbreaking for its time. It's a film that asks you to sit with its discomfort, making it a significant entry in the annals of cinema, especially considering that no complete copies are known to exist today.

Auction of Souls is particularly significant given its historical context, being one of the first films to address genocide. Its scarcity is profound; all known complete copies have been lost, making original materials and fragments highly sought after by collectors. The film's unique blend of personal narrative and social commentary gives it a distinct place in film history, and it continues to intrigue those who study early cinema.