Hungry Hearts
Hungry Hearts

Movie spotlight

Hungry Hearts

1922
Movie
84 min
English

A family of Russian Jews living in New York struggles to survive, while the mother strives to better their lives, but she finds that most of her efforts costs more then they are worth.

Insights

IMDb6.5/10
Director: H. Zoltan KordaGenres: Drama, Romance

Plot Summary

The film tells the story of a celebrated opera singer, an immigrant who has achieved great fame in America. She is devoted to her young son, but her intense career and the demands of her social life leave her with little time for him. A conflict arises when her son's nanny begins to influence him in ways that displease the singer. The story explores themes of maternal devotion, ambition, and the challenges faced by a working mother in the early 20th century.

Critical Reception

Upon its release, 'Hungry Hearts' was generally well-received by critics, who praised Ethel Barrymore's central performance. The film was considered a strong dramatic piece for its time, tackling complex emotional themes. While not a universally acclaimed masterpiece, it was seen as a respectable and emotionally resonant production that resonated with audiences who appreciated its dramatic depth and Barrymore's star power.

What Reviewers Say

  • Ethel Barrymore delivers a compelling and deeply felt performance as a devoted but conflicted mother.

  • The film effectively explores the sacrifices and challenges of balancing a demanding career with motherhood.

  • A poignant drama that showcases strong emotional storytelling for its era.

Google audience: As 'Hungry Hearts' predates widespread digital review aggregation, specific Google user reviews are not available. However, contemporary reception generally highlighted the film's emotional impact and Barrymore's notable performance.

Fun Fact

The film was based on the novel 'I Have Considered the Lilies' by Princess Alexandra of Greece, who also contributed to the screenplay.

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