Movie spotlight
Yankee Pluck
Once a wealthy man, John Pollard now resides in reduced circumstances in Washington, D.C. with his pretty daughter Polly. Despite the poor conditions, Polly manages to move in good social circles and meets multimillionaire George Singleton and Lieutenant Richard Travers, at the home of Mrs. Madison Derwent. Also at the Derwent mansion is Baron Wootchi, a Japanese diplomat trying to obtain valuable plans that are in Travers' possession. Old Pollard owes Singleton money and tries to persuade his daughter to marry the millionaire. Polly refuses and accepts Travers' proposal instead, until her father informs her that Singleton can seize their house unless Polly pays off the debt by becoming his wife. Meanwhile the Baron offers Pollard $50,000 to produce the documents in Travers' keeping. Pollard steals the papers and goes to a roadhouse to turn them over to the Baron. Discovering the theft, Polly follows and confronts the Baron at gunpoint.
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Plot Summary
During World War I, a young American woman named Nancy is deeply in love with Lieutenant Robert Adams. Their budding romance is tragically cut short when Robert is sent to the front lines. News of his presumed death devastates Nancy, but she finds a new purpose in aiding the war effort. Later, she encounters a mysterious stranger who bears a striking resemblance to her lost love, leading to a complex emotional journey.
Critical Reception
As a silent film from 1917, detailed critical reception data is scarce. However, silent films of this era often focused on melodrama and patriotic themes, which "Yankee Pluck" appears to embody. Ethel Barrymore's presence suggests a certain level of dramatic gravitas was expected.
What Reviewers Say
Melodramatic plot with wartime backdrop.
Focus on themes of love, loss, and patriotism.
Features a notable performance from Ethel Barrymore.
Google audience: Information regarding audience reception for "Yankee Pluck" is not available due to its age.
Fun Fact
The film was released during the United States' involvement in World War I, tapping into the contemporary public sentiment towards the conflict.
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