The Velvet Hand
The Velvet Hand

Movie spotlight

The Velvet Hand

1918
Movie
50 min
English

On a beach in southern Italy, Gianna Russelli practices her dancing with her devoted brother Russino, looking forward to the day when she will begin formal dance studies. One day the beautiful Countess Michetti comes to the village and engages in a flirtation with Russino, but when her former lover, Prince Viscomte, arrives with his closest friend, Count Paul Trovelli, the countess resumes her affair with the prince.

Insights

Director: D.W. GriffithGenres: Drama, Romance

Plot Summary

A young woman from humble beginnings navigates societal expectations and a complicated love life. She falls for a wealthy man, but their differing social classes and his volatile temperament create significant obstacles. The film explores themes of love, ambition, and the challenges of overcoming one's circumstances in early 20th-century America.

Critical Reception

As a silent film from 1918, contemporary critical reviews are scarce and difficult to access. However, D.W. Griffith was a prominent director, and films from this era often focused on dramatic storytelling and emotional performances, which were generally well-received by audiences of the time.

What Reviewers Say

  • Early silent dramas from Griffith often showcased strong female leads.

  • The film likely focused on melodrama and romantic entanglements.

  • Performances, particularly from Lillian Gish, were typically a highlight of Griffith's productions.

Google audience: Audience reviews for films of this age are not available.

Fun Fact

The Velvet Hand was produced by D.W. Griffith's own production company, which allowed him significant creative control over his films during his prolific period.

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