The Great Moment
Sir Edward Pelham, married to a Romani Russian, fears that his daughter will follow in her mother's footsteps and arranges a marriage with her cousin, whom she does not love. During a trip to Nevada with her father, she meets engineer Bayard Delavel, who saves her life when she is bitten by a snake; when her father finds her with Bayard in his cabin, he forces them to marry. Believing that Nadine does not love him, Delavel leaves her and prepares to sue for divorce. A lost film.
Insights
Plot Summary
This silent film biographical drama chronicles the life and achievements of dentist Horace Wells, who is credited with the discovery of anesthesia. It depicts his personal struggles and professional aspirations as he pioneers this groundbreaking medical advancement, ultimately facing challenges in gaining recognition for his work. The narrative highlights the personal sacrifices and scientific dedication involved in his pursuit of improving medical practices.
Critical Reception
As a silent film from 1921, contemporary critical reception is not widely documented in modern accessible databases. However, the film's subject matter and its star, Douglas Fairbanks, suggest it was likely viewed as a serious historical drama.
What Reviewers Say
- The film is noted for its historical subject matter and biographical approach.
- Douglas Fairbanks's performance was central to the film's appeal.
- Its portrayal of scientific discovery and its challenges resonated with audiences of the era.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this silent film is unavailable.
Fun Fact
The film was one of the earliest biographical dramas to focus on a medical pioneer, a subject not commonly explored in early cinema.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources