Movie spotlight
The Great Love
Jim Young of Youngstown, Pennsylvania, reads of the German war atrocities and decides to enlist in the British army, thus becoming a forerunner of the American forces that are subsequently to leave for the battlefields of Europe. He begins active training at a camp outside London. While enjoying a few hours of leave, he meets Susie Broadplains , a young woman from Australia. She is flattered by his attentions and their friendship soon blossoms into love. However German plotters plan to destroy an arsenal at night and Sir Roger is inveigled into driving an automobile along a London road with its lights turned skyward to guide the Zeppelins. Jim, wounded and home on furlough, detects Sir Roger on the lonely road, follows and traps him in his cottage. Sir Roger turns his pistol on himself rather than be taken alive. Susie finds the "great love" in service for the cause of democracy and her country, with a greater love in sight.
Insights
Plot Summary
Set during World War I, the film follows Bessie, a young American girl who falls in love with a charming Italian poet named Giovanni. Their burgeoning romance is cut short when Giovanni returns to Italy to fight in the war. Bessie, inspired by his sacrifice, also dedicates herself to the war effort, facing numerous hardships and uncertainties.
Critical Reception
The Great Love was a significant film for D.W. Griffith, produced during the height of World War I. It aimed to bolster American morale and support for the Allied cause. While it achieved commercial success at the time of its release, its historical and artistic significance is often overshadowed by Griffith's more acclaimed works.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its patriotic themes and Griffith's directorial prowess.
Lillian Gish delivers a moving performance as the devoted heroine.
Seen as a product of its time, reflecting wartime sentiments.
Google audience: Information regarding specific Google user reviews for this silent film from 1918 is not readily available.
Fun Fact
The film was shot in various locations, including a military camp in California, to lend authenticity to its wartime setting.
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