Movie spotlight
The Haunted Bedroom
Lizette loves Jean but a 10,000 franc dowry insisted upon by Jean's father is keeping them apart. Paul, Lizette's "black sheep" brother, begs that she gives him her saved money so he can increase it for her - at the gaming table!! He does win but there are a few who are determined he shall not reach home with his money. Paul also suffers from a bad heart and with the stress he feels from being set upon, he takes refuge at an inn. He seals the money up in an envelope addressed to Lizette Rouget but dies before he can deliver it safely to her. Lizette is now destitute, Jean having long ago deserted her but the ghost of Paul continues to haunt the inn's bedroom to guard the money from "unworthy hands".
Insights
Plot Summary
This short silent film appears to be a very early exploration of the horror genre, likely focusing on a character's encounter with supernatural phenomena within a bedroom. Given the era, the plot would have relied heavily on visual cues and atmospheric tension to convey fear and suspense.
Critical Reception
As a very early silent film from 1913, detailed critical reception is largely unavailable in modern databases. Films of this era were often reviewed in local newspapers or trade publications, and their historical records are not always comprehensively digitized. However, it is recognized as an early example of a horror-themed short.
What Reviewers Say
An early attempt at creating a suspenseful atmosphere.
Reflects the nascent stages of cinematic horror.
Limited by the technological and narrative conventions of its time.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this film is not available due to its age and obscurity.
Fun Fact
The year 1913 was a pivotal time for the burgeoning film industry, with many studios experimenting with various genres and narrative structures, including early forays into what would become the horror genre.
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