Movie spotlight
Help Yourself
Emily Ray, who works in a department store, is taken in by her wealthy Aunt Carmen. Emily falls in love with Oliver Browning, but her aunt dismisses him as a nobody and a fortune hunter. Emily's wealthy married cousin, Rosamonde Vallant, always trying to keep up with the latest fads, gives a party in honor of Professor Syle, a distinguished radical who lectures her guests in "parlor Bolshevism," then takes them to Greenwich Village to meet his comrades.
Insights
Plot Summary
A spirited young woman inherits a large fortune from a wealthy uncle, but upon arrival at his estate, she discovers his will stipulates she must marry within a year to retain the inheritance. Her aunt, who despises her, attempts to thwart any potential suitors while also plotting to seize the fortune herself. The young heiress, determined to outwit her manipulative aunt, embarks on a series of humorous schemes to find a suitable husband before time runs out.
Critical Reception
As a silent comedy of the early 1920s, 'Help Yourself' was generally received as a lighthearted and entertaining diversion. Contemporary reviews often praised Dorothy Gish's comedic timing and charm, which were a hallmark of her performances. The film likely played well to audiences looking for escapist fare during the era, though its artistic merits were perhaps secondary to its entertainment value.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for Dorothy Gish's comedic performance.
A lighthearted and entertaining silent comedy.
Entertaining plot with humorous schemes.
Google audience: Information on specific Google user reviews for this 1920 silent film is not readily available.
Fun Fact
Dorothy Gish, known for her roles in silent films, was the sister of Lillian Gish, another prominent actress of the era.
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