Hitting the Trail 1918
"A Powerful Story of regeneration. It Is a Picture That starts off With a Bang and Keeps it Up."
Directed by Dell Henderson, *Hitting the Trail* (1918) is a gripping silent-era drama that weaves crime and redemption into the bustling streets of New York's Lower East Side.
Director: Dell Henderson
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hitting the Trail (1918) about?
The film follows Kid Kelly, a New York gangster entangled in a robbery gone wrong. After protecting Flo Haines from false charges, he crosses paths with her again—this time working at a factory by day and a relief mission by night. Their growing bond forces Kelly to confront his past and seek redemption in this early 20th-century crime drama.
Who directed Hitting the Trail?
Dell Henderson directed *Hitting the Trail* (1918), bringing his signature storytelling flair to this silent-era narrative.
Who stars in Hitting the Trail?
The film features Carlyle Blackwell, Evelyn Greeley, and Joseph W. Smiley in pivotal roles, with supporting performances from George MacQuarrie and Muriel Ostriche.
Is Hitting the Trail (1918) worth watching?
While *Hitting the Trail* lacks an IMDb rating, its blend of crime, romance, and themes of redemption makes it a worthwhile watch for fans of silent-era cinema. The film's emotional depth and Henderson's direction elevate it beyond a typical early 1900s drama.
How long is Hitting the Trail?
The runtime for *Hitting the Trail* (1918) is 50 minutes.
About Hitting the Trail (1918) — A Silent-Era Crime Drama of Love and Redemption
Directed by Dell Henderson, *Hitting the Trail* (1918) is a gripping silent-era drama that weaves crime and redemption into the bustling streets of New York's Lower East Side. The film follows Kid Kelly, a hardened gangster embroiled in a botched robbery attempt at Goldberg's millinery store. When nosy Flo Haines stumbles into the chaos and is wrongfully accused, Kelly's unexpected loyalty sets him on a path toward personal transformation. Their chance encounters—from Flo's monotonous days at an artificial-flower factory to her nights volunteering at Reverend Roberts' relief mission—spark an unlikely romance that challenges Kelly's criminal past. The story explores themes of second chances and moral awakening against a backdrop of gritty, early 20th-century urban life.
As Kelly navigates his newfound feelings and the shadows of his old life, *Hitting the Trail* delivers a poignant exploration of love, guilt, and the possibility of change. Henderson's direction infuses the narrative with palpable tension and heartfelt moments, making it a standout silent-era film that balances crime and sentimentality. With its atmospheric setting and relatable characters, the movie remains a compelling watch for fans of vintage cinema and stories of redemption.
Available to stream or download on select classic film platforms, *Hitting the Trail* offers a nostalgic yet emotionally resonant experience for modern audiences.