The Testing Block

Plot

In this classic silent western, 'Sierra' Bill, a hardened outlaw played by William S. Hart, encounters the beautiful traveling violinist Nelly Gray and becomes instantly smitten. Despite her initial reluctance, Sierra forces her into marriage, and they eventually have a child together, attempting to build a family life. Their domestic peace is shattered when the manipulative gambler Ringe arrives in town, who not only convinces Nelly to abandon her husband but also systematically ruins Sierra at the gaming table, leaving him penniless and broken. Enraged and seeking vengeance, Sierra breaks out of jail where he was imprisoned for his gambling debts and embarks on a relentless pursuit of Ringe. The film culminates in a dramatic confrontation that tests Sierra's character and forces him to choose between revenge and redemption.

Historical Background

The Testing Block was released in 1920, during a period of significant social and cultural change in America. The country was transitioning from World War I to the Roaring Twenties, and the western genre was evolving to reflect changing attitudes toward violence and morality. William S. Hart's westerns represented a more serious, morally complex approach to the genre compared to the more action-oriented westerns that would follow. The film's themes of redemption and the conflict between civilization and frontier values resonated with audiences who were experiencing rapid modernization and urbanization. The post-war period also saw increased demand for entertainment, and silent films were at their peak of artistic and commercial success.

Making Of

William S. Hart was deeply involved in every aspect of his films' production, often co-writing scripts and having final say on casting. For 'The Testing Block,' Hart worked closely with director Lambert Hillyer to develop the story, which reflected Hart's vision of the 'noble outlaw' archetype. The film was shot during the summer of 1920, with the cast and crew enduring harsh conditions in the Sierra Nevada locations. Hart was known for his method approach to acting, often staying in character between takes and insisting on authentic costumes and props. The relationship between Hart and Novak on set was professional but strained at times, as Hart was known for his intense working style. The gambling scenes were choreographed with real professional gamblers to ensure authenticity, and the jail break sequence required elaborate set construction and careful planning to execute the dangerous stunts safely.

Visual Style

The cinematography by Joseph H. August utilized the dramatic landscapes of the Sierra Nevada mountains to create a visual narrative that complemented the film's moral themes. August employed natural lighting extensively, particularly in outdoor scenes, to enhance the authenticity of the western setting. The film features several innovative camera techniques for its time, including tracking shots during chase sequences and carefully composed close-ups to emphasize emotional moments. The contrast between the rugged outdoor locations and the more intimate indoor scenes was used to visually represent the protagonist's internal conflict between his outlaw nature and his desire for domesticity.

Innovations

The Testing Block employed several technical innovations for its time, including the use of multiple cameras for complex action sequences. The film's location shooting in the Sierra Nevada mountains required portable equipment and innovative solutions for power and lighting in remote areas. The jail break sequence featured elaborate mechanical effects and carefully timed stunts that pushed the boundaries of what was technically possible in 1920. The film also made use of early matte painting techniques to enhance the western landscapes and create more dramatic backgrounds. The production team developed new methods for filming horseback riding sequences, resulting in more dynamic and realistic chase scenes.

Music

As a silent film, The Testing Block would have been accompanied by live musical performances during its original theatrical run. The typical score would have included popular songs of the era, classical pieces, and specially composed mood music. The violin playing scenes in the film would have been synchronized with live musicians in the theater orchestra. While no original score survives, contemporary accounts suggest that the musical accompaniment emphasized the film's emotional moments, particularly during the romantic scenes and the final confrontation. The use of music was crucial in conveying the film's themes and emotional content to silent-era audiences.

Memorable Scenes

• The dramatic confrontation between Sierra Bill and Ringe in the dusty town street, where the moral climax of the film plays out against the backdrop of the western landscape
• The tender scene where Sierra Bill watches Nelly Gray play her violin, showing the outlaw's softer side and establishing their emotional connection
• The intense jail break sequence, featuring innovative stunt work and cinematography that creates genuine tension and excitement

What Critics Said

Contemporary critics praised The Testing Block for its moral depth and William S. Hart's powerful performance. The New York Times noted that 'Hart once again proves why he is the master of the western genre, bringing nuance and humanity to a character that could easily have been a mere caricature.' Variety magazine highlighted the film's 'stunning cinematography and authentic western atmosphere.' Modern critics have reevaluated the film as an important example of early 20th century American cinema, with particular appreciation for its complex moral themes and Hart's subtle performance style. The film is often cited in film studies courses as a representative example of the transitional period in western filmmaking.

What Audiences Thought

The Testing Block was a commercial success upon its release, particularly popular in rural areas and small towns where western films had their strongest following. Audiences responded positively to Hart's portrayal of the conflicted outlaw, and the film's themes of family and redemption resonated strongly with post-WWI American values. The film's box office performance was strong enough to cement Hart's status as one of the most popular stars of the early 1920s. Contemporary audience letters and reviews in trade publications indicate that viewers particularly appreciated the film's emotional depth and the authentic western setting. The film's success helped maintain the popularity of the western genre during a period when other genres were gaining prominence.

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