Movie spotlight
Toton
In the Latin Quarter of Paris, American artist David Lane (Norman Kerry) marries his model Yvonne (Olive Thomas), but just prior to the birth of their baby, David's mother dies, and he is forced to depart for the United States. In David's absence, his father hires a lawyer to convince Yvonne that David has abandoned her, and grief-stricken, she dies soon after her little girl is born. Yvonne's trusted friend Pierre rears the girl as a boy, whom he calls Toton, and trains her to become a skilled pickpocket. Meanwhile, David adopts a boy named Carew, and when he grows to manhood, the two move to Paris to establish an art studio. In robbing the studio, Pierre recognizes David, and to avenge Yvonne's death, he claims that Toton has been taught to hate her father. Later, Pierre becomes convinced of David's innocence, and before he dies, he reveals the truth to Toton. Finally, the girl is reunited with her father and marries Carew.
Insights
Plot Summary
A drama set in the world of Italian theater, "Toton" follows the life and struggles of its titular character. The film explores themes of love, ambition, and the sacrifices made in pursuit of artistic fulfillment. It delves into the complexities of relationships within the theatrical community.
Critical Reception
Information regarding the critical reception of "Toton" (1919) is scarce due to its age and limited distribution. As with many films from this era, contemporary reviews are difficult to locate and access.
What Reviewers Say
Due to the limited availability of contemporary reviews, a definitive consensus is not possible.
The film likely explored melodrama and romantic entanglements common in early 20th-century Italian cinema.
Its focus on theatrical life suggests an interest in the artistic world of the time.
Google audience: As "Toton" is a silent film from 1919, there are no Google user reviews available to summarize.
Fun Fact
The film stars Antonio "Totò" Canepa, who was a prominent figure in early Italian cinema, though his later career might be more widely recognized than his work in this specific film.
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