The Breath of a Nation 1919
Released in 1919, *The Breath of a Nation* is a sharp silent-era comedy that rides the wave of Prohibition with wit and satire.
Director: Gregory La Cava
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Breath of a Nation (1919) about?
This 1919 animated short follows Judge Rummy, whose wife discards his alcohol during Prohibition. While investigating a popular soda fountain, he stumbles upon Silk Hat Harry's fizzy substitute—and discovers it may be a legal loophole with an intoxicating kick.
Who directed The Breath of a Nation?
Gregory La Cava directed this silent-era comedy, known for his sharp wit and innovative storytelling in early animation.
Who stars in The Breath of a Nation?
Cast details for *The Breath of a Nation* are not listed in available records.
Is The Breath of a Nation (1919) worth watching?
As a silent-era comedy with a runtime under 10 minutes, it's a fun time capsule for fans of early animation or Prohibition-era satire. While not rated on IMDb, its historical charm and humor make it a quirky watch for niche audiences.
How long is The Breath of a Nation?
The film runs for 6 minutes.
The Breath of a Nation (1919) — Silent Comedy's Prohibition-Era Satire Explored
Released in 1919, *The Breath of a Nation* is a sharp silent-era comedy that rides the wave of Prohibition with wit and satire. Directed by Gregory La Cava, this six-minute animated short follows Judge Rummy, whose strict temperance-leaning wife forces him to abandon his liquor stash—only for him to discover Silk Hat Harry's soda fountain, a clever substitute that packs a surprising punch. As Judge Rummy explores Harry's fizzy concoction, he uncovers a hilarious twist: the drink might be legal, but its effects feel dangerously intoxicating. The film blends animation's visual charm with a playful critique of the era's moral crusades, capturing the chaotic energy of post-World War I America.
With its lightning-fast pacing and lighthearted rebellion against dry laws, *The Breath of a Nation* offers a snapshot of early 20th-century humor and ingenuity. La Cava's direction keeps the tone breezy, while the animation style leans into exaggerated expressions and slapstick timing. The story's themes—temperance, substitution, and subversive pleasure—poke fun at societal extremes, leaving audiences both amused and intrigued by the era's contradictions.