

Movie spotlight
Five and Ten
John owns the largest chain of five and ten cent stores in the country. He moves his family to New York from Kansas City and their life, though grand, is falling apart due to his constant working. Wife and mother Jenny is lonely. Son Avery hates his job. Daughter Jennifer is snubbed by classmate Muriel and her friends. At a charity bazaar, Jennifer meets Berry and sparks are evident. However, he is engaged to Muriel and Muriel will make sure that she, and only she, marries Berry. After the marriage, Berry still thinks of Jennifer as Jennifer thinks of Berry. Avery laments about the state of his family since they were happy in Kansas City.
Insights
Plot Summary
Ambitious aspiring opera singer Fanny (Marion Davies) lives a life of poverty, dreaming of a better future. She struggles to make ends meet, often facing the harsh realities of her circumstances. Her determination leads her to make difficult choices as she navigates the world of performance and societal expectations, all while striving for artistic and personal fulfillment.
Critical Reception
Five and Ten was met with a mixed reception upon its release. While Marion Davies's performance was often highlighted for its earnestness and emotional depth, the film's melodrama and pacing were points of criticism. It is generally considered a solid, if unremarkable, vehicle for Davies during her MGM contract period.
What Reviewers Say
Praised Marion Davies's committed and emotive central performance.
Noted for its sentimental melodrama, which some found effective and others overwrought.
Criticized for a somewhat predictable plot and uneven pacing.
Google audience: Audience reception for "Five and Ten" is not widely documented through specific Google user reviews, making it difficult to summarize their particular likes or dislikes. However, historical context suggests that films of this era often resonated with audiences for their emotional storytelling and star power.
Fun Fact
Marion Davies, a major star of the silent and early sound eras, was known for her philanthropic work and her relationship with William Randolph Hearst, who heavily influenced her film career.
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