Contraband
After inheriting a newspaper in a small country town, Carmel Lee leaves her home in the city to take charge of it. She soon discovers that the town is terrorized by a band of bootleggers, who abduct and later kill the local sheriff. With the aid of Professor Pell, who has been recently fired as school superintendent, Carmel makes a public issue of the sheriff's murder, editorializing in her paper for justice and reform. Pell and Carmel are kidnapped by the bootleggers, but Carmel escapes and alerts the police. The bootleggers are arrested, the sheriff's murder in solved, and Abner Fownes, a politician and one of the town's leading citizens, is uncovered as the leader of the gang.
Insights
Plot Summary
A young woman, trying to escape a difficult past, finds herself entangled with a dangerous bootlegger. She becomes involved in a world of illegal alcohol trade and faces increasing peril as she tries to navigate this treacherous environment. Her choices lead her down a path filled with suspense and potential ruin.
Critical Reception
As a silent film from the 1920s, contemporary critical reception is not as readily available or granular as for modern releases. However, films of this era featuring Lillian Gish were generally well-received for their dramatic performances and compelling narratives. 'Contraband' likely benefited from Gish's star power and the era's fascination with crime dramas.
What Reviewers Say
- Often noted for its suspenseful plot and Gish's dramatic performance.
- Reflects the era's interest in Prohibition-era crime and its societal impact.
- Appreciated for its visual storytelling typical of silent films.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this specific silent film is not available. Audiences of the time likely appreciated the dramatic tension and Gish's performances.
Fun Fact
Lillian Gish was one of the most acclaimed actresses of the silent era, and 'Contraband' was one of her many roles during a prolific period in her career.
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