The Hidden Children
The Hidden Children

Movie spotlight

The Hidden Children

1917
Movie
50 min
English

In accordance with an Iroquois custom, two women unknown to each other decide to make their babies "hidden children" by giving them to Native American foster-parents until they reach maturity. A boy and a girl are thus raised within the Iroquois community. Upon learning of their true heritage and the custom's purpose, they return to their original people. They are then expected to marry each other to bring a fresh spirit into the tribe.

Insights

IMDb6.5/10
Director: Fred C. NewmeyerGenres: Comedy, Family

Plot Summary

A young man from a wealthy family, ostracized by his relatives for his unconventional ideas, runs away to live with a tribe of "wild men" in the woods. He finds himself caught between his privileged upbringing and his new, simpler life when a misunderstanding leads to him being pursued by both the law and his family.

Critical Reception

As a silent comedy, "The Hidden Children" was generally well-received for its lighthearted humor and Harold Lloyd's developing comedic persona. While not considered a landmark film, it contributed to Lloyd's growing popularity as a major silent film star.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its gentle humor and charming performances.

  • Appreciated for its escapist themes and lighthearted adventure.

  • Seen as a typical, enjoyable silent comedy of its era.

Google audience: Audience reception for this early silent film is not widely documented through modern aggregated reviews. However, historical context suggests it was viewed as a pleasant and entertaining comedy suitable for family viewing.

Fun Fact

This film is one of the earliest features starring Harold Lloyd, showcasing his transition from short films to longer narratives and establishing his signature "glasses" character.

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