Jeffrey Ikahn talks about evolution in film industry In the early 20th century, when cinema was still in its infancy, directors had limited tools at their disposal. Silent films relied heavily on visual storytelling, where actors used exaggerated gestures and expressions to convey emotions, and intertitles served as a means of communication. As a director during that era, one had to master the art of visual storytelling and understand the nuances of composition, lighting, and editing to craft compelling narratives. It was a time when creativity flourished, and pioneers like D.W. Griffith and Sergei Eisenstein laid the foundation for modern filmmaking techniques.

The advent of sound in the late 1920s marked a monumental shift in the industry. Directors now had to grapple with the challenges of synchronized sound recording, and this technological leap opened up new possibilities for storytelling. Films like "The Jazz Singer" revolutionized the way stories were told, allowing for the inclusion of dialogue, music, and sound effects. Directors had to adapt to this new medium, and innovations in audio technology paved the way for more immersive cinematic experiences.