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Musical Silents: The Son of the Sheik (1926)

Wednesday, February 10th, 2027
7:00 pm
Details
80 mins | U.S. | Silent w/ live musical accompaniment
Category
Screening Room @VTIFF
Film Type
Feature Film
Cost
$20 general admission | $10 student | Member benefits may apply
Location
The Screening Room @VTIFF
60 Lake Street, 1st Floor
Burlington, VT

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Director
George Fitzmaurice
Sponsors
Vermont Arts Council, Lake Champlain Chocolates, John M. Bissell Foundation

Live improvised score by Matt Hagen + special guest

The #1 heartthrob of the silent era, Rudolph Valentino was known as The Latin Lover. He died in 1926 at age 31, and 100,000 attended his funeral. This is his final film, probably his best. It’s thoroughly ridiculous, yes, but great fun. And it’s a big relief that, though this Italian actor plays an Arab sheik in 1926, the film is nowhere near as racist as it could be, and certainly less racist than its predecessor, The Sheik.

Matt Hagen is a Burlington, Vermont-based musician whose sound is as layered and unhurried as the Green Mountain seasons. His music varies from instrumental, genre bending guitar to intimate storytelling, with a voice that feels lived-in and genuine. A fixture in Vermont’s independent music scene, Matt has earned recognition, trust, and respect as a standout voice in Burlington’s vibrant creative community. Whether performing at premier clubs, intimate local venues, headlining events, supporting main stage acts, or tucked into a quiet corner of the city, he brings a rare authenticity that resonates long after the last chord fades. A seasoned songwriter, bandleader, and eclectic collaborator, Hagen writes and performs in a palatable fashion while unafraid to wander into strange sonic territory. It’s music made for people who listen closely.