Movie spotlight
The Symbol of the Unconquered
Eve Mason, a white-passing black woman, moves to a remote cottage she inherited from her late father. She makes the acquaintance of her neighbor, a dashing black settler named Hugh Van Allen, and quickly falls for him. Trouble brews as the local cadre of racist hucksters want the valuable land Van Allen lives on, and will do anything to take it from him.
Insights
Plot Summary
A young Chinese-American woman is caught between two feuding ranch owners in the American West. She tries to bring peace to the conflict while also dealing with prejudice and the challenges of her own identity. The film explores themes of love, loyalty, and the struggle for justice in a harsh frontier environment.
Critical Reception
This early film from William Wellman is noted for its portrayal of a Chinese-American protagonist and its Western setting. While specific critical reviews from its release are scarce, it is recognized as an early example of a major Hollywood director's work and a film that featured a significant role for Anna May Wong.
What Reviewers Say
Features an early and notable performance by Anna May Wong.
A Western film with social undertones, addressing themes of prejudice.
Represents a directorial effort from a young William Wellman.
Google audience: Information on specific Google user reviews for this silent film from 1920 is not readily available.
Awards & Accolades
None notable.
Fun Fact
The film is considered lost, with no known prints or screenings surviving today, making it a significant gap in the filmography of both director William Wellman and star Anna May Wong.
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