While debates rage and definitions shift, “The Great Train Robbery” (1903), directed by Edwin S. Porter, is widely considered the first feature-length action film, despite its brief runtime compared to modern standards. Its groundbreaking use of narrative techniques, on-location shooting, and dynamic action sequences revolutionized filmmaking and established many tropes still prevalent in the genre today.
Setting the Stage: Action Cinema Before “Action”
Before definitively claiming “The Great Train Robbery’s” place in action movie history, it’s crucial to understand the context of filmmaking at the turn of the 20th century. The motion picture industry was in its infancy, with films primarily serving as novelties showcasing everyday life or short comedic sketches. The idea of a narrative-driven, action-packed cinematic experience was revolutionary.
Early Cinema and the Seeds of Action
Early films like the Lumière brothers’ “Arrival of a Train at La Ciotat” (1896) captured the simple dynamism of real-world events. Similarly, Georges Méliès’s “A Trip to the Moon” (1902) showcased innovative special effects but lacked the sustained narrative tension characteristic of the action genre. These early works, while technically impressive, didn’t prioritize the kind of physical conflict, suspense, and daring feats we associate with modern action films.
Why “The Great Train Robbery” Still Reigns Supreme
“The Great Train Robbery” stands out for several key reasons that solidify its position as a pivotal moment in action cinema. It was one of the first films to tell a complex story through sequential shots and cross-cutting, creating a sense of urgency and momentum.
Key Elements Defining the Film as Action
- Narrative Drive: The film tells a complete story of a robbery, pursuit, and ultimate confrontation, driving the plot forward with deliberate action.
- On-Location Shooting: Shooting outdoors brought a level of realism previously unseen, enhancing the film’s believability and impact.
- Action Sequences: From the initial robbery to the gunfight in the woods, the film is packed with exciting and suspenseful action.
- Iconic Imagery: The outlaw firing directly at the audience remains one of cinema’s most recognizable and impactful images. This breaking of the fourth wall was shockingly immersive for the time.
- Commercial Success: Its popularity proved that audiences were eager for narrative-driven, action-oriented content, paving the way for future filmmakers.
While its runtime (approximately 12 minutes) wouldn’t qualify it as a “feature-length” film by today’s standards, in 1903, it was a significant cinematic achievement. The term “feature-length” itself was still evolving, and “The Great Train Robbery” was significantly longer and more ambitious than other films of the time. Its narrative complexity and action-packed sequences set it apart.
Addressing the Counterarguments
The debate over the “first action film” is complex and often subjective. Some argue that its short runtime disqualifies it from the feature-length category. Others point to earlier films that incorporated elements of action or adventure. However, these arguments often miss the point that “The Great Train Robbery” was a groundbreaking achievement in terms of its storytelling, action choreography, and overall impact on the development of cinema.
Short Length Considerations
While its length is a valid point of contention, it’s crucial to remember the context of 1903. Feature films as we know them today simply didn’t exist. The film’s impact on narrative storytelling and the development of action tropes outweigh the brevity in modern considerations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions that further clarify the historical context and significance of “The Great Train Robbery” within the action genre.
FAQ 1: What exactly makes “The Great Train Robbery” an “action” film?
The film’s portrayal of physical conflict (the robbery, shootouts), chase sequences (the posse pursuing the robbers), and moments of peril (the passengers being held at gunpoint) are characteristic of the action genre. It’s the sustained focus on these action elements within a compelling narrative that sets it apart.
FAQ 2: How did “The Great Train Robbery” influence future filmmakers?
It established several key techniques and tropes that are still used in action films today, including parallel editing (showing actions happening simultaneously), the use of close-ups to heighten emotional impact, and the depiction of violence and lawlessness in a thrilling and engaging way. It also helped popularize the Western genre, which frequently incorporates action elements.
FAQ 3: Were there any earlier films that could be considered action films?
While earlier films might have contained elements of action or adventure, they lacked the cohesive narrative structure and sustained focus on action that defines “The Great Train Robbery.” For instance, trick films like those of Méliès were visually impressive but not primarily driven by physical conflict.
FAQ 4: What were some of the filming techniques used in “The Great Train Robbery”?
Edwin S. Porter used techniques like cross-cutting (intercutting between different locations) to build suspense, on-location shooting to enhance realism, and innovative camera angles for the time. The famous final shot, where the outlaw fires his gun directly at the audience, was a particularly groundbreaking technique.
FAQ 5: Who was Edwin S. Porter, and what was his role in the development of cinema?
Edwin S. Porter was an American film pioneer who worked as a projectionist, cameraman, director, and producer. He was instrumental in developing many of the filmmaking techniques that became standard in the industry, including editing, camera movement, and narrative storytelling. He is a pivotal figure in the early history of cinema.
FAQ 6: Was “The Great Train Robbery” a commercial success?
Yes, it was a major commercial success and helped to popularize the concept of narrative film. Its popularity demonstrated that audiences were eager for films that told stories and provided thrilling entertainment. This commercial success was critical in shaping the future of filmmaking.
FAQ 7: How did audiences react to “The Great Train Robbery” in 1903?
Audiences were reportedly thrilled by the film’s fast-paced action, realistic settings, and suspenseful storyline. The final shot of the outlaw firing his gun was particularly shocking and impactful, contributing to the film’s notoriety.
FAQ 8: What are some criticisms of “The Great Train Robbery”?
Some modern critics argue that the film’s acting is somewhat stilted and that its depiction of violence is overly simplistic. However, these criticisms should be viewed in the context of the time, when acting styles and cinematic conventions were still evolving.
FAQ 9: How long is “The Great Train Robbery”?
The film is approximately 12 minutes long.
FAQ 10: Where can I watch “The Great Train Robbery”?
“The Great Train Robbery” is readily available online on platforms like YouTube and other film archives. It is in the public domain.
FAQ 11: What other films were innovative around the same time as “The Great Train Robbery”?
Films like “Life of an American Fireman” (also directed by Porter) were pushing the boundaries of storytelling around the same time. However, “The Great Train Robbery” had a more sustained focus on action and a more significant cultural impact.
FAQ 12: Why is it important to study early films like “The Great Train Robbery”?
Studying early films like “The Great Train Robbery” provides valuable insights into the evolution of cinema and the development of the techniques and conventions that shape modern filmmaking. It allows us to appreciate the groundbreaking achievements of early filmmakers and understand the historical context of the films we enjoy today. It also helps us understand how the action genre itself came to be.