Abel Gance's 1927 Epic 'Napoleon' Receiving Theatrical Restoration
Napoleon, a 1927 silent film from Abel Gance, has been a decades-long restoration process, headed by historian Kevin Brownlow's 50 year search for surviving prints ever since he saw a 9.5mm version in 1954.
The film received funding for 35mm elements in 2000, and the Philharmonia Orchestra recorded Carl Davis' entire score for the film. BFI National Archive, Brownlow's Photoplay Productions, and Dragon DI are behind the restoration, and the film itself is a five and a half hour silent tome.
The years and labour that went into this film will be rewarded with a U.K.-wide release this year, though no word yet on a U.S. release. The film was partially restored in 1980, and it's premiere screening of the completed restoration will be met with a live performance by the Orchestra, playing Davis' score for audiences.
The film has been extensively digitally edited, and its availability and rebirth is a testament to what digital truly can offer in the realm of filmmaking, apart from its financial benefits in the modern age.
Source: thefilmstage
