The Portrait

Name: The Portrait
Director: Władysław Starewicz
Genre: Horror, Thriller
Released: 1915-01-01
Duration: 45 min
Rating: 6.5
Cast: Andrey Gromov, Ivan Lazarev, R. Krechetov, V. Vasilyev

1915Dir. Władysław Starewicz45m

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Runtime45m

Released1915

DirectorWładysław Starewicz

About This Movie

The Portrait (1915) by Władysław Starewicz is a fascinating glimpse into early horror with its eerie atmosphere and unsettling themes. Adapted from a Nikolai Gogol story, it features a man tormented by a mysterious portrait that distorts his perception of reality. The pacing is quite hypnotic, creating a slow build-up that draws you into its unsettling world. What really stands out are the practical effects of the time, which, despite their age, manage to evoke a sense of dread and curiosity. The fragment we have, though short, showcases some intriguing performances, hinting at the deeper psychological horror that once filled the full runtime. It's a unique piece that reflects the innovative spirit of early cinema.

Mysterious and unsettling themes.Unique practical effects for its time.Only an 8-minute fragment survives.