Moral
When a travelling troupe threatens to unleash a saucy Berlin revue on the provincial town of Emilsburg, the local Morality Society, a band of sanctimonious middle-aged men, stages a protest. Meanwhile, the reigning monarch is concerned that his son and heir is not living his life to the full. Ninon d’Hauteville, a showgirl and the revue’s star attraction, takes a job as piano teacher to the young prince after her engagement at the local theatre was brought to a premature end, a result of the Morality Society’s interference. It doesn’t take long for those hypocrites to get wind of this. While on the outside they appear to be concerned with running the immoral woman out of their town, behind closed doors they rank among the new piano teacher’s most ardent pupils. However, Ninon, out to right the wrong done against her, secretly keeps a “diary” of their visits, recording each encounter on film with a hidden camera.
Insights
Plot Summary
A young woman from a sheltered background is forced to confront the harsh realities of the world when her father's business fails and her family falls into poverty. She takes on various jobs, facing moral dilemmas and exploitation, while trying to maintain her integrity and find a way to support her loved ones. The film explores themes of societal hypocrisy and the challenges faced by women in the early 20th century.
Critical Reception
The film received mixed reviews upon its release. While Lillian Gish's performance was widely praised for its emotional depth and intensity, the film's melodrama and somewhat predictable plot were noted by critics. Audiences were divided, with some appreciating the dramatic storyline and Gish's star power, while others found it overly sentimental.
What Reviewers Say
- Lillian Gish delivers a powerful and emotionally resonant performance.
- The film's dramatic narrative, while sometimes melodramatic, offers a poignant look at societal struggles.
- Some critics found the plot to be conventional, but Gish's presence elevates the material.
Google audience: Audience reception information from the era is not readily available through modern aggregated platforms. However, contemporary reports suggest that viewers were drawn to the film's emotional themes and the star power of Lillian Gish, though its melodramatic elements may have been a point of contention for some.
Fun Fact
Lillian Gish, a silent film icon, took on this role after a successful period at MGM, showcasing her ability to convey complex emotions through silent performance.
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