D.W. Griffith

D.W. Griffith was an influential American filmmaker in the early 20th century, known for pioneering techniques that shaped modern cinema. Born in 1875, he directed landmark films such as "The Birth of a Nation" (1915) and "Intolerance" (1916). Griffith introduced innovative storytelling methods, including cross-cutting, close-ups, and a focus on character development, which enhanced the emotional impact of films. However, his work is also controversial due to its racist themes and portrayal of African Americans. Despite this complexity, Griffith's contributions to film technique and narrative structure are still recognized as foundational in the history of cinema.