The Living Ladder

The Living Ladder (Dutch: De Levende Ladder) is a 1913 Dutch silent drama film directed by Maurits Binger and Louis H. Chrispijn. It was the first feature film from the Netherlands.[1]

The Living Ladder
Directed byMaurits Binger and Louis H. Chrispijn
Written byMaurits Binger
Release date
24 January 1913
Running time
50 minutes
CountryNetherlands
LanguageSilent

Plot

In a small Dutch village, Annie is treated by her parents to a circus performance in honor of her birthday. When he sees Annie, the clown Janus (Pedro in the English version) falls in love with her and gives her a message. Annie writes back that she will see him gladly if her father agrees, but her father forbids any romance with a clown. The circus leaves the village.

Several months later, Annie's father takes her to her aunt's village, hoping it will make her forget the clown. By coincidence, Janus' circus comes to perform in the same village. One night, a fire breaks out in the mill of Annie's Aunt, and the whole village, including the circus performers, rush to help. Annie is trapped at the top of the mill and the fire brigade's ladder proves too short. The circus clowns form a 'living ladder' by climbing on each other's shoulders and Janus is able to save Annie. Her father finally accepts their love.[2]

Cast
Annie Bos and Alex Benno

Preservation

The original 50 minute version is considered lost. Only a 25 minute tinted English version, titled The Burning Mill is available.[3]

References
  1. "Progressive Silent Film List: The Living Ladder". Silent Era. Retrieved 2009-05-02.
  2. Synopsis, review and complete film in English: "A cinema history". Retrieved 20 April 2018.
  3. "EYE Film Institute Netherlands". Retrieved 20 April 2018.
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