Ghosts
Helen Alving leads an outwardly contented life. On the eve of the 10th anniversary of her husband's death, she is about to open an orphanage as a memorial to him. To mark this occasion, her bohemian painter son Oswald has returned from Paris. Helen plans to take the opportunity to tell Oswald the truth about his father. But ghosts of the past erupt during an eventful evening, bringing the facade of civilised family life crashing down.
Insights
Plot Summary
Based on Henrik Ibsen's play, this drama centers on Helene Alving, a woman who has suppressed her true feelings and endured a loveless marriage. After her husband's death, she attempts to escape the shadows of the past by opening an orphanage in his name. However, she must confront the grim realities of her family's history and the hereditary syphilis that plagues her son, Oswald.
Critical Reception
As a silent film adaptation of a classic play, 'Ghosts' was likely met with appreciation for its attempt to bring challenging themes to the screen. Mary Pickford's performance would have been a significant draw. However, specific critical reviews from 1915 are scarce, making a comprehensive assessment difficult.
What Reviewers Say
- An ambitious adaptation of a controversial play for its time.
- Mary Pickford delivers a compelling performance.
- Explores mature and somber themes rarely seen in early cinema.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this silent film is not available.
Fun Fact
This film is notable for being an early adaptation of Henrik Ibsen's notoriously controversial 1881 play of the same name, which tackled themes of syphilis, incest, and euthanasia.
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