La Folie du Docteur Tube

Lore & Background

The plot follows Doctor Tube, who invents a powder that deforms people. He first tests it on a dog, then on his black child assistant, and on himself, which amuses them. He then sprays the powder on two young girls and their fiancés, who become devastated by their deformities. A fight ensues, but the professor reveals that removing the dust restores normal shape, and the adventure ends with champagne.

Reader's Guide

La Folie du docteur Tube is significant as an early experimental work by Abel Gance, showcasing innovative visual techniques. Gance used distorting mirrors and ordinary lenses to depict hallucinations because no distorting lenses were available at the time. The film's reception was negative among financiers, who deemed Gance crazy and refused further funding. Its preservation at the Cinémathèque française and digitisation ensure its continued study as a pioneering example of cinematic experimentation.

Did You Know?

• The film uses distorting mirrors and ordinary lenses because no distorting lenses were available.
• Abel Gance said he got drunk too quickly and had the idea for the film.
• The powder in the film is described as white and cocaine-like.