The Alien
Poor ditch-digger, Pietro Massena, lovingly raises his daughter Rosina. After Phil Griswold's inheritance goes to his brother William, Phil orchestrates a series of crimes to get money framing Pietro. First he has a friend rob a flower shop then when William refuses him money, Phil kidnaps William's daughter Dorothy and sends a ransom note, blaming Pietro. William accidentally runs over Rosina while searching for Pietro in the slums. The grieving Pietro is then framed for the kidnapping when he visits the flower shop for a rose for Rosina's coffin on Christmas morning. The situation is resolved when William announces Dorothy has been found, and Pietro, despite an offer of compensation, sorrowfully returns home.
Insights
Plot Summary
A young woman, Louise, is the sole heir to a vast fortune, but her family's legacy is tainted by a rumored madness. She finds herself drawn to the mysterious "alien" presence in her life, a man named Vance, who may hold the key to her family's dark secrets and her own future. As their relationship deepens, Louise must confront the truth about her heritage and decide whether to embrace love or succumb to the shadows of her past.
Critical Reception
The Alien was a modest success upon its release, praised for its dramatic performances and its exploration of psychological themes. While not a groundbreaking film, it was noted for its competent direction and engaging narrative, appealing to audiences interested in character-driven dramas of the era.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for strong dramatic performances, particularly from Fay Bainter.
- The film's exploration of psychological themes was considered compelling for its time.
- Appreciated for its well-crafted, albeit conventional, romantic drama.
Google audience: Audience reception information for 'The Alien (1915)' is not readily available.
Fun Fact
Fay Bainter, who starred as Louise, was a prominent stage actress who made her film debut in 'The Alien' before going on to a successful Hollywood career, even winning an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in 'Jezebel' (1938).
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