Movie spotlight
The Girl from the Marsh Croft
Helga is a young single lady who has a baby by a much older married man. After the older man tells Helga's father that he refuses to pay child support because he isn't the child's father, her father insists that Helga take him to court. On court day, just as the older married man is about to swear on the Bible that he is not the father of Helga's child, Helga suddenly tells the court that she's dropping the case because although the man did father her child, she doesn't want him to commit perjury, which is not only a serious crime but a mortal sin as well.
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Plot Summary
Based on a novel by Selma Lagerlöf, this silent film tells the story of Helga, a young woman ostracized by her village due to her presumed madness. She is sent to live with a cruel pastor and his wife. However, Helga finds solace and love with a soldier, but their relationship is tested by societal prejudice and her difficult circumstances.
Critical Reception
As a silent film from 1917, contemporary critical reception is not as widely documented as modern films. However, it is recognized as a significant early work by Victor Sjöström and a notable adaptation of Selma Lagerlöf's work, appreciated for its dramatic intensity and evocative cinematography.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its powerful storytelling and dramatic performances.
Recognized as an important early work in Swedish cinema.
Notable for its faithful adaptation of a beloved literary work.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this silent film is not readily available.
Fun Fact
The film is based on a novella by Selma Lagerlöf, who was the first Swedish woman to win the Nobel Prize in Literature.
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