The poster for D. W. Griffith's 1913 silent film Three Friends, distributed by Biograph. Griffith began his film career with Biograph in 1908 as a screenwriter and actor, but within months became the company's main director. His prolific output, often one new film a week, and willingness to experiment in many different genres helped the company become a major commercial success. However, Griffith left Biograph in October 1913 due to various disputes, taking many of its stars with him, and the company fell into financial difficulties. Its studios were acquired by one of its creditors, the Empire Trust Company.Restoration: Lise Broer