The first book-length study of pioneering and prolific filmmakers Ted and Leo Wharton, Silent Serial Sensations offers a fascinating account of the dynamic early film industry. As Barbara Tepa Lupack demonstrates, the Wharton brothers were behind some of the most profitable and influential productions of the era, including The Exploits of Elaine and The Mysteries of Myra, which starred such popular performers as Pearl White, Irene Castle, Francis X. Bushman, and Lionel Barrymore. Working from the independent film studio they established in Ithaca, New York, Ted and Leo turned their adopted town into "Hollywood on Cayuga." By interweaving contemporary events and incorporating technological and scientific innovations, the Whartons expanded the possibilities of the popular serial motion picture and defined many of its conventions. A number of the sensational techniques and character types they introduced are still being employed by directors and producers a century later.

Introduction: The Sensation of the Serial1. Seeking "Old Opportunity"2. Taking a Parallel Path3. Bringing Essanay's "Special Eastern" to Ithaca4. Taming and Reframing Buffalo Bill5. Going Independent6. Exploiting Elaine7. Extending Elaine8. Establishing Roots in Renwick Park9. Unraveling Myra's Mysteries10. Asking Beatrice11. Preparing for War12. Moving into Feature Filmmaking13. Staring into The Eagle's Eye14. Leaving Ithaca15. Heading West