Movie spotlight
The Ghost Breaker
Carmen, a maid, steals a locket belonging to the Aragon princess Maria Theresa and sells it to Gaines, a New York art collector, not knowing that the locket contains the clue to the Aragon family fortune's whereabouts. Based on the 1909 Broadway play of the same name by Paul Dickey and Charles W. Goddard.
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Plot Summary
A wealthy young man, parading as a paranormal investigator, is hired to rid a haunted castle of its "ghosts." He soon discovers that the spooky occurrences are orchestrated by a group of bandits who are using the castle as a hideout to conduct their illegal operations. The protagonist must then use his wits and courage to expose the criminals and protect the inhabitants.
Critical Reception
As an early silent film from Cecil B. DeMille, "The Ghost Breaker" is often noted for its ambitious use of early special effects and its blend of humor and suspense. While not as critically lauded as DeMille's later epics, it was a popular film in its time and is recognized as an interesting example of early American cinema's exploration of genre conventions.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its early attempts at suspense and comedic elements.
Notable for its innovative use of cinematic techniques for the era.
A charming example of early silent film storytelling.
Google audience: Information not available for this early silent film.
Fun Fact
This film is an early adaptation of a popular 1909 stage play of the same name by Paul Armstrong.
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