Cyclone Higgins, D.D. 1918
In *Cyclone Higgins, D.D.* (1918), the idealistic Anson Campbell trades seminary robes for a village pulpit, only to face a storm of hypocrisy when he defends Bess Morgan, a woman branded as "fallen" by the narrow-minded townsfolk.
Director: Christy Cabanne
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cyclone Higgins, D.D. (1918) about?
The film follows Anson Campbell, a seminary-trained preacher who returns to his coastal village and risks everything to defend Bess Morgan, a woman ostracized for her past. His principled stand against the villagers' hypocritical morality sparks a storm of retaliation, forcing him to confront the true nature of their so-called "Christianity."
Who directed Cyclone Higgins, D.D.?
Christy Cabanne, a prolific director of the silent era known for his skill in blending drama and social commentary, helmed this 1918 film.
Who stars in Cyclone Higgins, D.D.?
The film features Francis X. Bushman as Anson Campbell, Beverly Bayne as Bess Morgan, and Baby Ivy Ward in a supporting role, alongside Charles Fang and Helen Dunbar.
Is Cyclone Higgins, D.D. (1918) worth watching?
While the film's silent-era production and lack of an IMDb rating make it a niche pick, its sharp themes and social commentary give it historical weight. Fans of early drama and moral dilemmas may find it a compelling watch, though modern viewers should brace for its dated perspectives.
How long is Cyclone Higgins, D.D.?
The film runs for 50 minutes, a concise runtime typical of silent-era productions.
About Cyclone Higgins, D.D. (1918) — A Silent-Era Drama of Defiance and Hypocrisy
In *Cyclone Higgins, D.D.* (1918), the idealistic Anson Campbell trades seminary robes for a village pulpit, only to face a storm of hypocrisy when he defends Bess Morgan, a woman branded as "fallen" by the narrow-minded townsfolk. Directed by Christy Cabanne, this silent-era drama blends sharp social commentary with heartfelt drama, exposing the contradictions of puritanical morality through Campbell's defiant stand. The coastal New England setting crackles with tension as the community's righteous indignation turns venomous, pushing the young preacher to the brink of personal and spiritual reckoning.
Francis X. Bushman stars as Campbell, a man of conviction whose unwavering morality clashes with the village's bigotry, while Beverly Bayne shines as Bess Morgan, caught in the crossfire of prejudice. With its blend of comedy and drama, the film navigates themes of redemption, hypocrisy, and the true meaning of faith—all wrapped in the tight 50-minute runtime of a bygone era. The result is a poignant, thought-provoking tale that feels as relevant today as it must have in 1918.