Accidents Will Happen

A young man, a skilled mechanic, struggles with his ambition and his moral compass when he falls for the daughter of a wealthy industrialist whose factory is responsible for unsafe working conditions. He must choose between his love and his principles as he witnesses the tragic consequences of the factory's negligence.

As a melodrama from the early sound era, 'Accidents Will Happen' received moderate attention. While praised for its lead performances and its attempt to tackle social issues, it was also seen as somewhat conventional in its storytelling. Audience reactions were generally favorable, appreciating the romantic elements and the dramatic tension.

• Praised for the earnest performances of its leads, particularly Richard Barthelmess.

• Noted for its melodrama and its themes of class disparity and industrial dangers.

• Considered a competently made, albeit somewhat predictable, early talkie.

Google audience: Audience feedback from the era is not well-documented, but films of this nature typically appealed to those seeking romantic drama with a touch of social commentary.

This film marked one of the early ventures into sound for director William C. deMille, brother of the more famous Cecil B. deMille.