Abraham Lincoln (1930): A Trip Down Memory Lane

Tjena! Grab your popcorn, folks, because we’re chattin’ about D.W. Griffith’s “Abraham Lincoln” from way back in 1930. Honestly, who’da thought to make a flick about a dude with such a lengthy, historical beard? Brilliant idea, right?

The Story and the Screen

Let’s not kid ourselves. Griffith, the chap behind the camera, ain’t exactly known for being modest. His style in this biopic shows it—bold and grand! It’s like throwing a party for your history teacher. Walter Huston, with those steely eyes and towering presence, nails the Lincoln role. He sort of becomes the guy, you know? It’s fascinating seeing him breathe life into old Abe on screen.

But mate, even legends trip. Some scenes are sloooow. Makes you feel like you’re standin’ in an endless queue at Systembolaget on a Friday afternoon. The pacing, oh dear, is sometimes questionable. But maybe that’s just 1930s cinema for you. More patience than we’re used to these days, ay?

A Personal Antectdote

Watching this, I was reminded of when I was in school, standing in a draughty classroom in Sundsvall, reciting Lincoln’s famous speeches in front of my classmates. “Fourscore and seven years ago,” I’d bellow out, trying not to trip over the words. My teacher said I had the charisma of a soggy meatball, but hey, who’s counting?

The Vibe and The Verdict

This isn’t your flashy Hollywood blockbuster; it’s more like that quiet walk through Skansen. Educational, a bit quaint, but charming in its own time-capsule-ish way. If you’re up for some vintage cinema with peculiar charm and undeniable heart, give this one a go. Just, maybe, have a fika ready to keep those eyes open during the slow bits, eh?

Catch you later, movie buffs! Let me know what ye reckon.

watch the full movie on CinemaOneMovies on YouTube – if you are from Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark