
Movie spotlight
So This is Eden
The film opens with an animated prologue about Adam and Eve, by Tony Sarg. The viewer is then introduced to a young couple, Eve and Jim, who are having troubles in their marriage. Eve is frustrated by housework and dreams of living a wealthier lifestyle. While out shopping, Eve runs into an old flame, Don, who has earned his fortune overseas.
Insights
Plot Summary
In this melodrama, a young woman (Alice Calhoun) is the sole heir to a vast fortune. She falls in love with a man of humble origins (William Collier Jr.), much to the dismay of her avaricious guardian (Carmel Myers). The guardian conspires to separate the lovers and claim the inheritance for herself.
Critical Reception
As a silent film from the late 1920s, specific critical reception is scarce. However, films of this genre and era were typically reviewed based on their melodramatic elements, acting performances, and adherence to popular romantic tropes. It likely received moderate reviews for its emotional content and acting.
What Reviewers Say
A classic example of early 20th-century romantic melodrama.
Features earnest performances from its lead actors.
The plot follows familiar tropes of love overcoming societal barriers.
Google audience: Audience reviews for silent films of this era are not available. However, films of this nature were generally appreciated for their straightforward storytelling and emotional arcs.
Fun Fact
"So This Is Eden" is notable for being one of the few surviving films starring Alice Calhoun, a prominent actress of the silent film era who retired early.
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