
The Battle 1911
Directed by the legendary D.W. Griffith, *The Battle (1911)* is a gripping silent-era drama set against the backdrop of the Civil War. This 17-minute short film follows Union soldiers marching off to war, their spirits high as cheering crowds send them off.
Director: D.W. Griffith
Cast









Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Battle (1911) about?
*The Battle (1911)* follows Union soldiers heading to war, their initial confidence shattered when the battle turns against them. One soldier, overwhelmed by fear, flees the field and hides at home, only to find the strength to return and save his trapped comrades. The film explores cowardice, honor, and the transformative power of redemption.
Who directed The Battle?
The film was directed by D.W. Griffith, a pioneer of early cinema whose innovative techniques shaped silent film storytelling.
Who stars in The Battle?
The Battle features Charles West, Blanche Sweet, Robert Harron, and Donald Crisp among its lead roles.
Is The Battle (1911) worth watching?
Though unrated on IMDb, *The Battle (1911)* is a historically significant war drama with strong emotional stakes. Its concise runtime and Griffith's direction make it a compelling watch for silent film enthusiasts or anyone interested in early cinematic storytelling.
How long is The Battle?
The Battle has a runtime of 17 minutes.
The Battle (1911) — Silent-Era Drama of War and Redemption
Directed by the legendary D.W. Griffith, *The Battle (1911)* is a gripping silent-era drama set against the backdrop of the Civil War. This 17-minute short film follows Union soldiers marching off to war, their spirits high as cheering crowds send them off. But when the tide of battle turns against their side, one young soldier falters, fleeing the field in shame. Hiding in the home of his beloved, he wrestles with his cowardice—until honor and love drive him to cross enemy lines, risking everything to rescue his trapped comrades. Griffith's masterful storytelling blends war's chaos with intimate human drama, capturing themes of courage, shame, and redemption.
A product of its time yet timeless in its emotional core, *The Battle (1911)* showcases early cinema's power to evoke tension and empathy. The film's stark black-and-white visuals and dramatic pacing immerse viewers in a bygone era, where heroism and fear collide on the battlefield. With its concise runtime, it's a condensed yet impactful exploration of war's psychological toll—perfect for fans of historical drama or silent film enthusiasts alike.