Movie spotlight
Human Desire
The orphan Bernice (Stewart) is raised almost to womanhood by the good sisters in an Italian convent. Worshiping a picture of the Madonna and Child, she is seized by a great desire to have a child she can call her own. Running away to America, where she has been told babies are plentiful, she is taken in by Robert Bruce, an artist whose wife has refused to divorce him, and poses for his projected masterpiece, a Madonna. Bernice falls in love with the baby borrowed for this posing and is filled with sorrow when the child is taken away. Robert, who has become sincerely but honorably in love with the girl, adopts a baby for her. His wife meets Bernice and the baby, believes the worst, and insults her. Bernice takes the child and leaves the house, becoming lost in the city and finally finding refuge in a hospital where the child dies. Robert learns from his wife the reason for Bernice's departure, locates the girl, and, after divorcing his wife, marries her.
Insights
Plot Summary
In the early days of cinema, "Human Desire" likely explored the complex emotional landscape of its characters, typical of early dramas. It would have delved into themes of love, passion, and the societal constraints of the era. The narrative would have focused on the interpersonal relationships and the driving forces of human emotion.
Critical Reception
As a silent film from 1919, specific critical reception data is scarce and difficult to verify. Films from this period were often reviewed in newspapers and periodicals that are not widely digitized. General reception would have been influenced by the contemporary understanding of filmmaking and storytelling.
What Reviewers Say
Likely praised for its emotional depth and direction within the silent film medium.
Appreciated for its exploration of human relationships and societal norms of the time.
Viewed as a significant work within the early career of Alice Guy-Blaché.
Google audience: Information regarding Google user reviews for this film is not available due to its age.
Fun Fact
Alice Guy-Blaché was a pioneering filmmaker, considered by many to be the first narrative filmmaker in history, and "Human Desire" is one of her many contributions to early cinema.
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