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LOST AND FOUND is a new periodic screening series designed to showcase archival prints of films that have been recently rediscovered, or restored from new materials that improve the presentational quality of their previously available versions. In some instances, such as Sorell and Son, the films may be incomplete or damaged, making access unlikely through more traditional venues. The series will serve not only as an opportunity for rare access to a “lost” film, but also will call attention to some of film preservation’s more notable success stories.
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As the premiere presentation in a new screening series of archival rediscoveries unspooling under the banner of “LOST AND FOUND,” the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is pleased to present a rare public presentation of a film that was believed to be lost, Sorrell and Son.
This 1927 United Artists release was written and directed by Herbert Brenon, who was nominated in the “best direction of a dramatic picture” category of the very first Academy Awards, for the years 1927-28. Released as a silent picture, the film stars H.B. Warner and Nils Asther as a father and son who strive to maintain their relationship and integrity despite being impoverished and deserted by their wife and mother, portrayed by Anna Q. Nilsson. The film was based on the popular 1925 novel by George Warrick Deeping, photographed by James Wong Howe with art direction by William Cameron Menzies. The only known surviving print of the film, recently discovered in the Academy Film Archive’s holdings, has been restored as much as currently possible, marking its first screening in the U.S. in over 60 years. Though suffering from deterioration and shrinkage, and with the last reel of the film still missing, this screening will provide the first opportunity for modern audiences to “fill in the blank” and view this nominated film for themselves. The ending of the film has been reconstructed by the Academy Film Archive using still photographs and title cards to allow for an almost complete viewing experience.
Sorell and Son will be screened with live musical accompaniment by Michael Mortilla.
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