Movie spotlight
The Cheater
Lilly Meany has grown up amongst charlatans, including her father. She decides to become a faith healer, and her first victim, a rich hypochondriac woman, is easy enough to "cure." In fact, the woman's so happy with Lilly, now calling herself Vashti Dethic, that she recommends her to her nephew, Judah, Lord Asgarby, who has a crippled sister, Eve. The little girl gives Lilly so much innocent trust and love that she actually is able to walk for the first time ever.
Insights
Plot Summary
The story revolves around a young man who is torn between his love for a virtuous woman and the allure of wealth and social standing offered by another. He makes choices that lead him down a path of deceit and regret, ultimately facing the consequences of his actions and the pain he inflicts on those around him.
Critical Reception
As a silent film from 1920, detailed critical reception is scarce and often fragmented. However, films of this era by directors like Henry Edwards, known for his melodramas, were generally aimed at providing entertainment and moral lessons to audiences. contemporary reviews, where available, likely focused on the performance of the actors and the emotional impact of the narrative.
What Reviewers Say
Early melodramas often explored themes of virtue versus vice.
Performances were typically highlighted as a key element of audience engagement.
The narrative structure aimed for clear moral conclusions.
Google audience: Information on specific audience reception from 1920 is not available.
Fun Fact
Henry Edwards was a prolific British actor, director, and producer, known for his work in silent films, often starring alongside Alma Taylor.
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