The silent era’s shocking film Haxan comes to life with a new score as Not So Silent Cinema presents the film at Glen Foerd on Thursday, Nov. 6, from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.
The performance will take place in Glen Foerd’s Gilded Age mansion’s second-floor art gallery. Doors open at 7 p.m., and the movie starts at 7:30. The event is not wheelchair accessible.
Released in 1922, Haxan (Swedish: “The Witch;” also known as “Witchcraft Through the Ages” from its release in the U.S. in 1968) is a Swedish-Danish silent horror essay film written and directed by Benjamin Christensen. Part documentary, part dramatization, the film explores the historical roots and superstitions surrounding witchcraft — from medieval witch trials to the modern age — drawing on Christensen’s study of the “Malleus Maleficarum,” a 15th-century inquisitor’s manual.
Upon its release, Haxan was both praised and condemned. With its recreations, portrayals of hysteria and imagery, the film was banned in the United States and censored across Europe. Today, it is celebrated as a groundbreaking and surreal exploration of fear, superstition and the human psyche.
Not So Silent Cinema is led by composer and pianist Brendan Cooney. The ensemble’s original score for Haxan combines classical and modern influences to create a live soundtrack.
The performance will feature Brendan Cooney, piano and music direction; Carlos Santiago and Liz Carlson, violins; and Chris Coyle, bass.
Admission is $25 for general entry, and $20 for students and seniors.
Glen Foerd is at 5001 Grant Ave.
For tickets and more information, visit www.glenfoerd.org/events. ••
