The Impossible Voyage

About The Impossible Voyage

Directed by French filmmaker Georges Méliès, The Impossible Voyage (also known as Voyage à travers l'impossible) is a silent film released in 1904. The plot revolves around a group of geographers who embark on an expedition using different modes of transportation including, automobiles, bicycles, balloons, and, notably, a steam-powered rocket. Their journey takes them across the sun and back to earth, encapsulating a cavalcade of adventure and fantasy elements.

Making / Production

"The Impossible Voyage" is an example of Méliès' unique blend of theater and film techniques. He employed the use of stage machinery and pyrotechnics to create special effects, along with painted sets, costumes, and miniatures. His active involvement in both the technical and creative aspects of production, from designing the props to directing the actors reflects his innovative spirit to the early years of cinema.

Actors

• Georges Méliès: Played the lead role as an overly ambitious geographer. His portrayal was characterized by expressive gestures, reflecting the theatrical style of silent movie acting of the era.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film is said to be inspired by Jules Verne’s novels; 'From the Earth to the Moon', and 'Around the Moon'.
• 'The Impossible Voyage' was a follow up to Méliès’ massively successful 'A Trip to the Moon' (1902).
• The film is approximately 24 minutes long, making it Méliès' longest film.

Quotes

• Dialogue was delivered through written placards in the film due to the absence of synchronized sound in early cinema.

Music, Soundtrack

• The film, as with most silent films of the era, was likely paired with live music during its initial screenings. However, no specific soundtrack is attributed to the film.