JUDEX

France  – 1916  – b&w –  383’

Dir.: Louis Feuillade | Scr.: Arthur Bernède, Louis Feuillade | Cin.: André Glatti, Léon Klausse | Ed.: Léon Klausse | Cast: René Cresté, Musidora, René Poyen, Édouard Mathé | Prod.: Gaumont

Louis Feuillade's silent cinematic achievement consists of 12 episodes that build a sophisticated, multi-layered narrative with constant revelations about the past which keeps the viewer's interest undiminished and leads to an impressive finale. Judex is praised for its complex characters portrayed with strong performances and its innovative, atmospheric photography. The film follows the eponymous hero as a black-clad avenger seeking revenge against the corrupt banker responsible for his father's death. It is remembered as the ancestor of all superhero adventures, as a commentary on urban justice, and as the first hugely successful mini-series.