Movie spotlight
For Her Good Name
Frivolous young Mrs. Pensonby Smythe, trapped in a loveless marriage, secretly accompanies the loutish "Billie" Carrington to "The House of the Mask," a notorious gambling palace where the rich play in secret with masked faces. While there Carrington attacks her and she is rescued by gambler Belmont Blair who recognizes her. In the ensuing scuffle Carrington is accidentally killed. Blair gets Mrs. Smythe out of the house before the body is discovered. In time Blair, who loves Mrs. Pensonby Smythe’s sister Grace, sacrifices himself to protect them both.
Insights
Plot Summary
A wealthy young woman is ostracized and forced to leave her home due to a scandal, though she is innocent. She struggles to survive and find her place in a world that has turned against her. The film follows her journey as she attempts to clear her name and reclaim her dignity.
Critical Reception
As a silent film from 1916, contemporary critical reception is difficult to ascertain with precise detail. However, based on the era and the star power of Ethel Barrymore, it was likely seen as a melodramatic piece that appealed to audiences of the time, focusing on themes of virtue, social injustice, and redemption.
What Reviewers Say
Melodramatic portrayal of a woman's struggle against societal judgment.
Features a strong performance from its leading lady, Ethel Barrymore.
Explores themes of innocence, scandal, and the fight for one's reputation.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this film is not available due to its age.
Fun Fact
The film marked one of Ethel Barrymore's early significant roles in cinema, further establishing her as a prominent actress beyond the stage.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources