Movie spotlight
Desire
Society children Madalyn Harlan and Bob Elkins separate the day they are to be married. Madalyn marries her chauffeur, Jerry, while Bob falls in love with unsophisticated Ruth Cassell and, after careful consideration, marries her. Madalyn's marriage is unhappy, ending in a double suicide after Madalyn's parents disown her and Jerry's family proves to be lower class.
Insights
Plot Summary
The film follows the story of a young woman who, through a series of deceptions and romantic entanglements, attempts to secure a wealthy future. She finds herself caught between various men and their desires, leading to complicated and often perilous situations. Her quest for security and love is tested by her own actions and the manipulations of those around her.
Critical Reception
Information on the critical reception of 'Desire' from 1923 is scarce due to the age of the film and the nature of film criticism at the time. Surviving reviews suggest it was seen as a typical melodrama of its era, with performances being noted but the overall plot perhaps not breaking new ground. Audience reception is not well-documented but likely aligned with its genre.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for Mary Miles Minter's leading performance.
Considered a standard melodrama with romantic and dramatic elements.
The plot was seen as engaging for its time, revolving around societal aspirations and romantic intrigue.
Google audience: Audience reviews for this film are not available due to its age.
Fun Fact
This film is notable as one of the later works of Mary Miles Minter, who was a popular silent film star, and it marked a departure into more dramatic roles for her.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources