Henry Woodward
Actor
About Henry Woodward
Henry Woodward was an American silent film actor whose brief career spanned the year 1920. He is primarily known for his role as David Gamut in the 1920 silent film adaptation of James Fenimore Cooper's classic novel 'The Last of the Mohicans.' This film was one of several early adaptations of the popular literary work and was produced during the height of the silent era. Woodward's portrayal of the psalm-singing David Gamut placed him alongside other notable silent era actors, though his film career appears to have been limited to this single production. Like many actors of the period, his career may have been cut short by the transition to sound films or other personal circumstances. The 1920 version of 'The Last of the Mohicans' was directed by Clarence Brown and Maurice Tourneur, two significant figures in early cinema, suggesting Woodward was working with established filmmakers despite his limited filmography.
The Craft
Milestones
- Appeared in 'The Last of the Mohicans' (1920) as David Gamut
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Henry Woodward's contribution to cinema, while limited to a single film, represents the work of countless actors who populated the silent era but whose careers were brief. His role in 'The Last of the Mohicans' (1920) places him within the context of early American cinema's efforts to adapt classic literature for the screen. The film itself is part of the broader cultural phenomenon of adapting James Fenimore Cooper's work, which has been filmed multiple times throughout cinema history. While Woodward did not achieve lasting fame, his participation in this production contributes to our understanding of the ensemble casts that brought early literary adaptations to life during the silent film period.
Lasting Legacy
Henry Woodward's legacy is primarily preserved through his role in the 1920 adaptation of 'The Last of the Mohicans,' one of the earliest film versions of this classic American story. While his career was brief, he represents the thousands of working actors who contributed to the rich tapestry of silent cinema, many of whom have been largely forgotten by film history. His work serves as a reminder of the collaborative nature of filmmaking and the importance of supporting actors in bringing literary adaptations to the screen. The 1920 version of 'The Last of the Mohicans' remains of interest to film historians and silent cinema enthusiasts, ensuring that Woodward's contribution, however small, continues to be documented.
Who They Inspired
Due to his brief film career, there is no documented evidence of Henry Woodward's influence on other actors or directors. His limited filmography suggests he was likely a character actor or bit player rather than a star who would have mentored others or significantly influenced cinematic techniques.
Off Screen
Very little is known about Henry Woodward's personal life, which is common for actors with brief careers in the silent era who did not achieve lasting fame.
Did You Know?
- Henry Woodward's entire known filmography consists of just one film from 1920
- He played David Gamut, the psalm-singing character, in 'The Last of the Mohicans'
- The 1920 version of 'The Last of the Mohicans' was directed by both Clarence Brown and Maurice Tourneur
- This film was one of the earliest adaptations of James Fenimore Cooper's classic novel
- Like many silent era actors with brief careers, little personal information about Woodward survives
- The film was produced by Paramount Pictures during the silent era's peak years
- Woodward worked alongside actors Wallace Beery and Barbara Bedford in the production
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Henry Woodward?
Henry Woodward was an American silent film actor active in 1920, known primarily for his role as David Gamut in 'The Last of the Mohicans' (1920). His career appears to have been limited to this single film production.
What films is Henry Woodward best known for?
Henry Woodward is known for only one film: 'The Last of the Mohicans' (1920), where he played the character David Gamut in this silent era adaptation of James Fenimore Cooper's novel.
When was Henry Woodward born and when did he die?
Unfortunately, specific birth and death dates for Henry Woodward are not documented in available historical records, which is common for actors with brief careers in the silent era.
What awards did Henry Woodward win?
There are no recorded awards or nominations for Henry Woodward, which is typical for character actors with very brief film careers in the early 1920s.
What was Henry Woodward's acting style?
Specific details about Henry Woodward's acting style are not documented, though as a silent era actor, he would have used the exaggerated gestures and facial expressions typical of the period to convey emotions without dialogue.
Did Henry Woodward work with any famous directors?
Yes, Woodward worked with Clarence Brown and Maurice Tourneur on 'The Last of the Mohicans' (1920). Both directors became significant figures in early American cinema, with Brown later directing numerous classic Hollywood films.
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Films
1 film
