Movie spotlight
The Struggle
Spirited story of West, which begins after the hero has spent four years overseas and has left the army so much of a fighting devil that he becomes embroiled in a mix-up. Learning that his antagonist has died from wounds is the reason for the hero going West, when he meets a tramp who is on his way to join a gang of outlaws and who invites the ex-soldier to join.
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Plot Summary
This melodrama centers on Mary, a young woman from a rural background who moves to the city to support her family after her father's death. She falls for an unscrupulous man who promises her riches but instead leads her into a life of poverty and despair. Mary's struggle to survive and maintain her integrity in the face of hardship forms the core of the narrative, highlighting the moral and social challenges faced by women in early 20th-century urban environments.
Critical Reception
Upon its release, 'The Struggle' received a mixed to negative reception from critics. While some acknowledged D.W. Griffith's directorial efforts, many found the film's melodramatic plot to be overwrought and dated. Audience reception was similarly lukewarm, with the film failing to achieve significant commercial success.
What Reviewers Say
Critics noted Griffith's signature visual style but found the narrative predictable and overly sentimental.
The film's moralizing tone and exaggerated portrayals were seen as weaknesses.
Some appreciated the performance of Florence Eldridge, but it wasn't enough to save the film.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for 'The Struggle' is not readily available.
Fun Fact
Despite being one of D.W. Griffith's later films and a departure from his epic historical dramas, 'The Struggle' is often considered one of his less successful and less remembered works.
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