On Trial
On Trial

Movie spotlight

On Trial

1917
Movie
70 min
English

Robert Strickland, the self-confessed murderer of Gerald Trask, refuses to defend himself on the witness stand. His attorney, however, cross-examines Strickland's wife.

Insights

IMDb6.0/10
Director: Maurice TourneurGenres: Crime, Drama, Mystery

Plot Summary

A young district attorney, Robert Wayne, is accused of the murder of a millionaire, John R. Gray. The evidence against him is damning, leading to a dramatic courtroom trial. As the trial unfolds, the true killer is revealed through a series of flashbacks and testimony, exposing a complex web of deceit and betrayal.

Critical Reception

This silent film was a significant early success for director Maurice Tourneur and actor Conway Tearle, noted for its innovative use of flashbacks and its tense courtroom drama. It was generally well-received by critics for its suspenseful narrative and strong performances.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its suspenseful courtroom proceedings.

  • Acknowledged for its early use of flashback narrative techniques.

  • Noted for strong performances, particularly from Conway Tearle.

Google audience: Information not available for this early silent film.

Fun Fact

Although a silent film, 'On Trial' was notable for its innovative use of flashbacks to reveal the story, a technique that would become more common in later cinema.

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