Ben Model's Silent Film Universe

In this month's episode we speak to silent film polymath Ben Model, discussing his recent publication The Silent Film Universe.Digital Content Manager Christina had just finished reading when she spoke to Ben,  and picked out a couple of chapters from which to discuss a few key themes: audience participation in creating the story, text in silent film, and the undercranking phenomena: all about film speeds in filming and projection. Please enjoy!Additional reading/ relevant links:A full English transcript of this episode is available here.Visit Ben's websiteBuy the book, The Silent Film UniverseListen to Ben's podcast: The Silent Film Music PodcastRead Ben's blog (including 'The Language of Silent Film' posts mentioned)Browse the wares at Undercrank Productions (*sale in June 2026!*)More about Ernie Kovacs and Edie AdamsCatch up with previous episodes of The Silent Comedy Watch PartyMentioned in the show: Marketing Without the Marketing with Michael BoeziMentioned in the show: Akimbo: a podcast from Seth GodinWowHDP.S Yes we do have a new musical hook! Wee musical excerpts at the episode start and finish are from our HippFest at Home presentation of Saxophone Susy, with as-live accompaniment from: Jane Gardner (piano), Hazel Morrison (percussion), John Burgess (saxophone, clarinet).