Filming the Roar of the MGM Lion 1929

Historic photo colorized by Melvin Hale, Ph.D.

Introducing "Filming the Roar of the MGM Lion," an evocative piece that captures the essence of Hollywood's golden era. This glazed canvas artwork brings to life the iconic figure of Leo the Lion, the longstanding mascot for Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM), a symbol synonymous with cinematic history. The artwork vividly portrays Jackie, the second lion in MGM's lineage, who roared his way into the hearts of audiences during the transition from silent films to "talkies." Jackie's distinct growls, recorded for the first time using gramophone technology, marked a new chapter in film-making, rendered here with masterful attention to detail and historical significance.

This piece offers a window into the past, showcasing a moment from classic cinema. It reflects on Jackie's storied presence across all black and white MGM films from 1928 to 1956, as well as MGM's Happy Harmonies cartoons. The historical narrative ingrained within the artwork further includes Jackie's early roles in seminal films such as "Greed" (1924), "Ben-Hur" (1925), and "Flesh and the Devil" (1926).

The inspiration behind this artwork stems from a rare photograph that uniquely encapsulates a significant moment in film history. Embark on a journey through time with this piece that not only speaks to the cinematic feats of yesteryears but also celebrates the technical and artistic milestones that continue to resonate today. Embrace this homage to a film icon and the enduring legacy of MGM's roar echoing across the corridors of cinema history.