The Babes in the Woods

This silent short film is a whimsical retelling of the classic Brothers Grimm fairy tale. Two young children, lost in a dark forest, stumble upon a gingerbread house inhabited by a wicked witch. They must use their wits to escape her clutches and find their way back home.

As a silent short from 1917, formal critical reviews are scarce. However, Mary Miles Minter was a popular child star of the era, and her presence generally ensured audience appeal for her films. The film is noted for its charming adaptation of a well-loved story.

• A charming and well-acted silent adaptation of a classic fairy tale.

• Showcases the early talent of Mary Miles Minter in a family-friendly fantasy.

• A brief but effective visual rendition of the Brothers Grimm story.

Google audience: Audience reception for this early short film is not readily available through modern aggregate platforms.

This film marked one of director Donald Crisp's earliest directorial efforts before he became a celebrated actor in his own right, winning an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for 'How Green Was My Valley'.