Auction of Souls 1919
Auction of Souls (1919) stands as a groundbreaking historical drama that brings to life the harrowing true story of Arshaluys Mardiganian, an Armenian genocide survivor.
Director: Oscar Apfel
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Auction of Souls (1919) about?
Auction of Souls (1919) tells the true story of Arshaluys Mardiganian, an Armenian woman who survived the brutalities of the Armenian Genocide. Based on her memoirs, the film depicts her journey through persecution, forced labor, and ultimate escape, serving as both personal testimony and historical documentation.
Who directed Auction of Souls?
Oscar Apfel directed Auction of Souls (1919), bringing his filmmaking expertise to this important biographical drama about genocide survival.
Who stars in Auction of Souls?
The film stars Aurora Mardiganian as herself, with supporting performances from Irving Cummings, Anna Q. Nilsson, Henry Morganthau, Howard Davies, and Hector Dion.
Is Auction of Souls (1919) worth watching?
As an unrated historical drama based on true events, Auction of Souls offers significant educational and cultural value. Its importance as potentially the first genocide film makes it essential viewing for those interested in early cinema and Armenian history, though only a 24-minute segment survives.
How long is Auction of Souls?
The original runtime was 90 minutes, though only a 24-minute restored segment of Auction of Souls currently exists.
Auction of Souls (1919): The Lost Armenian Genocide Drama — Full Movie Info
Auction of Souls (1919) stands as a groundbreaking historical drama that brings to life the harrowing true story of Arshaluys Mardiganian, an Armenian genocide survivor. Directed by Oscar Apfel, this powerful biographical film features Aurora Mardiganian portraying herself alongside Irving Cummings, Anna Q. Nilsson, and Henry Morganthau. The movie draws from Mardiganian's published memoirs, creating a moving account of survival against unimaginable odds during one of history's darkest chapters.
This lost masterpiece of early cinema blends war, romance, and historical drama to tell a story of resilience and human endurance. Though the complete film has been lost to time, a restored 24-minute segment released in 2009 preserves this important piece of cinematic history. The film's significance extends beyond entertainment—it represents the first motion picture to address genocide, making Auction of Souls (1919) a crucial document of both film and world history. Its themes of survival, cultural identity, and human rights continue to resonate with contemporary audiences.