Movie spotlight
Money Madness
When a bank is on the verge of collapse, its president, George Fuller, uses his own fortune to cover its losses. Unknown to Fuller, however, Monroe Simmons, his vice-president, is undermining the bank for his own purposes. Then Tom Williams, who is in love with Fuller's daughter Ethel, asks his uncle, famous detective "Whispering Smith," to investigate the case.
Insights
Plot Summary
A young woman, Rose (Ethel Barrymore), is forced into marriage with a wealthy older man by her greedy father. After her husband's death, she inherits his fortune but is soon targeted by a con artist who attempts to steal her inheritance. Rose must navigate the treacherous world of wealth and deception to protect herself and her newfound independence.
Critical Reception
As a silent film from 1917, contemporary critical reception is not as widely documented as modern films. However, reviews at the time likely focused on its dramatic elements and the performance of its lead actress. Modern assessments generally view it as a significant, albeit somewhat melodramatic, example of early American cinema featuring a prominent star of the era.
What Reviewers Say
Highlights Ethel Barrymore's star power in an early dramatic role.
A melodramatic exploration of wealth and its corrupting influences.
Represents typical themes and storytelling of American cinema in the silent era.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this silent film is not available.
Fun Fact
Ethel Barrymore, often called the 'First Lady of American Theatre,' was already a significant star on the stage before her film career, and 'Money Madness' was one of her early ventures into motion pictures.
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