Art Beat Q A Ed Hartman brings Richard Lyfords silent films back to life

The Seattle Worldcon Film Festival will present three films by Richard H. Lyford, newly scored by local composer Ed Hartman, on August 15. This event aims to revive interest in Lyford's significant yet obscure contributions to early cinema, having created 58 screenplays and directed nine films before the age of 20. The featured films include *The Scalpel* (1936/2024), *As the Earth Turns* (1937/2019), and Hartman’s own documentary *It Gets in Your Blood* (2021). Hartman, known for his work on projects like *Stranger Things* and *The Blind Side*, became involved with Lyford's films through Kim Lyford Bishop, a family member who discovered his orchestral score for a silent film.

The event will include a live Q&A with Hartman, providing insights into the music and stories behind these revived films. *The Scalpel* has received 199 awards and nominations, showcasing its impact at film festivals. This screening offers a unique opportunity to explore the historical context of Lyford's work and its relevance in today's cinematic landscape.