The Little American
The Little American

Movie spotlight

The Little American

1917
Movie
63 min
English

A young American has her ship torpedoed by a German U-boat but makes it back to her ancestral home in France, where she witnesses German brutality firsthand.

Insights

IMDb6.1/10
Director: Cecil B. DeMilleGenres: Romance, War

Plot Summary

During World War I, a young American nurse working in France falls in love with a French soldier. Their budding romance is tested by the brutal realities of war and the complex political landscape. The film follows their journey as they navigate love, loss, and duty amidst the conflict, culminating in a powerful display of patriotism and resilience.

Critical Reception

Released during wartime, 'The Little American' was a significant success, resonating with audiences due to its patriotic themes and romantic storyline. While contemporary reviews focused on its star power and emotional appeal, modern analysis acknowledges its historical significance as a propaganda film and a vehicle for Mary Pickford's immense popularity.

What Reviewers Say

  • A powerful and patriotic wartime romance featuring a captivating performance by Mary Pickford.

  • The film effectively captures the spirit of the era and the emotional toll of World War I.

  • Considered a significant piece of early American cinema and a notable example of wartime propaganda.

Google audience: Audience reception for this silent film is not widely documented through modern platforms, but historical accounts indicate it was a major success during its initial release, appealing to a strong sense of patriotism and romantic melodrama.

Awards & Accolades

None notable (focus was on box office success and patriotic sentiment at the time of release)

Fun Fact

During the filming of 'The Little American,' Mary Pickford was so popular that when she visited a military hospital, the soldiers present were given permission to cheer, a rare privilege.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

With the Great War ravaging Europe as this film was made, it’s a clear signal of patriotism from star Mary Pickford as she depicts the feisty “Angela”. She’s from wealthy stock and on her birthday is being courted by French “Count Jules” (R...