Movie spotlight
The Law Forbids
Paul and Rhoda Remsen, having marital difficulties, separate; and each is awarded custody of their child Peggy for 6 months of the year. Rhoda and Peggy move to a farm town, while Paul remains in the big city to write a play for actress Inez Lamont, who is in love with him. Peggy knows that her mother still loves Paul, so she flees to the big city to explain the situation to her father.
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Plot Summary
A wealthy widower is strongly against his daughter marrying an actor, believing that the stage is a corrupting influence. He attempts to prevent the marriage by using his influence and wealth to sabotage the actor's career. However, his schemes inadvertently bring the couple closer together and lead him to confront his own prejudices.
Critical Reception
As a silent film from the early era, specific detailed critical reception is scarce. However, films of this nature often focused on melodramatic themes and moral lessons, typically receiving moderate reviews for their earnest performances and straightforward storytelling.
What Reviewers Say
Often sentimental, but features a compelling lead performance.
Explores themes of parental control and societal prejudice.
A typical melodrama of its time, focusing on love and obstacles.
Google audience: Audience reviews for silent films of this era are not widely available. However, similar films were often appreciated for their dramatic narratives and emotional content.
Fun Fact
Despite its melodramatic plot, Thomas Meighan was a popular leading man in the 1920s, known for his sophisticated portrayals.
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