Movie spotlight
The Winning Stroke
In a mock fraternity initiation, a group of Yale students haze Paul Browning for tattling. When he learns that the leader of the group, oarsman Buck Simmons, is also winning the favor of Aida Courtlandt, the dean's niece, the jealous Browning and gambler Burton Hampdon, to whom Browning owes money, attempt to disgrace Buck so he will not be allowed to participate in the upcoming Yale-Harvard race. After they fail to lure Buck to bed with a girl, Browning takes Aida to a roadhouse so that Buck will have to break training rules to go there. When the coach, suspicious about the roadhouse incident, finds a letter planted on Buck about a deal for him to throw the race, he suspends Buck, but with Aida's influence, the dean straightens matters out. After Yale wins a close race, Browning shoots at Buck, who then trounces him. Proclaimed captain of the next year's team, Buck becomes engaged to Aida.
Insights
Plot Summary
This silent film tells the story of a young woman who overcomes adversity and societal expectations to achieve success in a competitive sport. The narrative likely focuses on her determination, the obstacles she faces, and the ultimate triumph that proves her capabilities.
Critical Reception
As a silent film from 1919, contemporary critical reception is not widely documented in modern databases. Surviving information suggests it was a moderately successful melodrama of its time, typical of the era's dramatic productions.
What Reviewers Say
A sentimental drama with a focus on personal triumph.
Showcases the perseverance of its protagonist against odds.
Reflects the popular storytelling themes of early 20th-century cinema.
Google audience: Information regarding Google user reviews for this silent film is unavailable due to its age and the lack of digital archiving for such early works.
Fun Fact
The film's star, Fred Stone, was a renowned vaudeville performer, particularly famous for his role in 'The Wizard of Oz' on stage, playing the Scarecrow.
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