Movie spotlight
For Alimony Only
A stormy marriage of 6 months between Narcissa and Peter Williams ends in a bitter quarrel, and to gain his freedom Peter offers her more alimony than he can afford. Then he meets Mary Martin, who restores his faith in marriage. With business reverses, Peter falls behind in his alimony payments and neglects his new wife. Narcissa, however, manages to support Bertie Waring, a young sofa-hound; but she protests the delayed alimony and Mary is forced to take a job with an interior decorating establishment. Peter goes to Narcissa to appeal to her generosity, at the moment when Mary (unaware of Narcissa's identity as her husband's first wife) is working in Narcissa's apartment; seeing them together, Mary leaves in humiliation and accepts an invitation from Bertie....
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Plot Summary
A wealthy socialite, Vivian Berkeley, discovers her husband is having an affair and demands a divorce. However, her husband counters by threatening to reveal her own past indiscretions, which could ruin her social standing. To protect her reputation and secure her financial future, Vivian devises a plan to frame her husband for adultery, ensuring she receives a substantial alimony settlement.
Critical Reception
As a silent film from the mid-1920s, 'For Alimony Only' received moderate attention upon its release, largely driven by the popularity of its star, Mae Murray. Contemporary reviews often highlighted Murray's dramatic performance and the film's melodrama, though some critics found the plot predictable or overly sensationalized for its time. Audience reception was generally favorable, enjoying the star power and the dramatic storyline.
What Reviewers Say
Mae Murray's captivating performance anchors the film's dramatic narrative.
The plot offers a melodramatic exploration of marital strife and social maneuvering.
Considered a typical, yet entertaining, production of its era.
Google audience: Information regarding specific Google user reviews for 'For Alimony Only' from 1926 is not available.
Fun Fact
Mae Murray, known for her exaggerated acting style and elaborate costumes, was one of the biggest stars of the silent film era, often referred to as the "Modern Aphrodite."
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