A Sudden Flicker of Light by David Thomson review – a brilliantly eccentric history of the movies

David Thomson’s latest book, “A Sudden Flicker of Light”, is a testament to the enduring power of cinema. The film critic and historian chronicles over a century of Hollywood history in a sprawling, eccentric account that is as much a love letter to the industry as it is a critical analysis.

Thomson’s passion for cinema is evident on every page, but his privileged position as a white, male film critic also shapes his perspective. His focus on Hollywood’s golden age raises questions about representation and diversity in cinema. He mentions Fritz Lang’s Metropolis and DW Griffith’s Birth of a Nation, both pioneering films notorious for their racist undertones.

The omission of African American filmmakers like Oscar Micheaux and women in cinema from Thomson’s narrative is striking. It highlights the limitations of even well-intentioned historians, who can be blind to their own biases. By excluding these voices and perspectives, Thomson’s book reinforces the industry’s historical biases towards European and Asian arthouse films.

Thomson’s “revisionist” history also blurs the line between scholarship and memoir by including personal anecdotes and opinions alongside historical facts. This approach makes for engaging reading but risks undermining the credibility of his narrative. In an era where misinformation spreads quickly, can we trust Thomson’s account of cinematic history?

Despite these criticisms, “A Sudden Flicker of Light” is a delightfully eccentric history of the movies that will appeal to film buffs and historians alike. Thomson effortlessly weaves together stories of on-screen legends like Chaplin, Hitchcock, and Marilyn Monroe with behind-the-scenes tales of industry moguls like Louis B. Mayer.

Thomson’s inclusion of lesser-known films like Barbara Loden’s Wanda and Tracey Emin’s Why I Never Became a Dancer adds depth to the narrative but also highlights the fragmentation of cinema today. As streaming services and social media platforms continue to shape the way we consume movies, the traditional Hollywood studio system is struggling to adapt.

Thomson’s book offers no clear answers about the future of cinema. However, it does serve as a timely reminder that cinema’s golden age was never truly golden for everyone. The industry’s willingness to confront its past and acknowledge systemic racism and sexism is still a work in progress.

One of the most striking aspects of “A Sudden Flicker of Light” is its omission of cinema’s darker side. Thomson barely touches on the era’s racist and sexist undertones, preferring instead to focus on the creative genius of Hollywood’s golden age. This approach may be a reflection of Thomson’s own biases but also raises questions about the industry’s willingness to confront its past.

In recent years, there has been a growing movement within the film industry to acknowledge and rectify systemic racism and sexism. With increased diversity in Oscar nominations and the #MeToo movement, it seems like progress is being made. However, Thomson’s book suggests that there is still much work to be done.

Thomson’s writing style can be eccentric, veering off into tangential anecdotes and personal opinions. While this approach can be engaging for readers, it also risks overwhelming the narrative. In places, the book feels like a sprawling, three-hour free jazz solo – brilliant but exhausting.

Despite these criticisms, “A Sudden Flicker of Light” is a testament to Thomson’s enduring passion for cinema. His love letter to Hollywood’s golden age will delight film buffs and historians alike, even if it doesn’t offer any clear answers about the industry’s future. As we move forward into an uncertain era, it’s essential to remember the history and diversity that have shaped our love affair with movies.

The flickering flame of cinema may be burning brighter than ever, but it’s also a reminder that there is still much work to be done. Thomson’s book offers no clear answers about the industry’s future, but it does serve as a timely reminder that cinema’s golden age was never truly golden for everyone. As we move forward into an uncertain era, it’s essential to confront the darker side of our love affair with movies – and to remember the diverse voices and perspectives that have shaped its history.