The Joyous Liar 1919
"Everyone hates a liar, but when it is done to protect a girl's name -Well that's different."
In this 1919 silent-era comedy-thriller, *The Joyous Liar*, a quick-witted artist named Burke Harlan finds himself in an unexpected role as an unlikely hero.
Director: Ernest C. Warde
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Joyous Liar (1919) about?
The film follows Burke Harlan, an artist who rescues a young woman from thieves—only to be falsely accused of stealing her car. To his surprise, her criminologist father takes him in, hoping to reform him. Harlan goes along with the ruse, hoping to win the woman's affections, but complications arise when her police commissioner beau gets involved.
Who directed The Joyous Liar?
The film was directed by Ernest C. Warde, a prolific filmmaker known for his work in silent-era cinema, particularly his adaptations of classic literature.
Who stars in The Joyous Liar?
The main cast includes J. Warren Kerrigan as Burke Harlan, Lillian Walker as Anne Warren, Joseph J. Dowling, Pell Trenton, and Alfred Hollingsworth.
Is The Joyous Liar (1919) worth watching?
While it's a silent-era curiosity rather than a modern classic, *The Joyous Liar* offers charm, humor, and a clever premise that makes it enjoyable for fans of vintage cinema. Its short runtime and lighthearted crime-comedy blend make it a pleasant discovery for those exploring early film history.
How long is The Joyous Liar?
The film has a runtime of 50 minutes.
About The Joyous Liar (1919) — Silent-Era Comedy with a Twist on Redemption and Romance
In this 1919 silent-era comedy-thriller, *The Joyous Liar*, a quick-witted artist named Burke Harlan finds himself in an unexpected role as an unlikely hero. After rescuing Anne Warren from auto thieves, Harlan's kindness is repaid with a wrongful arrest and a false charge of grand theft. The twist? Anne's father, a distinguished criminologist, takes Harlan into his custody—believing he can reform the charming rogue. Harlan, amused by the situation, plays along, hoping to win Anne's affection. But his act grows complicated when Anne's suitor, the stern police commissioner, enters the picture. Directed by Ernest C. Warde, this lighthearted yet clever film blends humor with a dash of crime, all set against the backdrop of early 20th-century society's moral expectations.
With its playful title hinting at deception's softer side, *The Joyous Liar* explores themes of redemption, mistaken identity, and the power of perception. Warde's direction infuses the story with a breezy charm, while J. Warren Kerrigan and Lillian Walker's chemistry elevates Harlan's antics into something genuinely engaging. The film's short runtime ensures a tight, entertaining ride, making it a delightful snapshot of silent-era storytelling—where lies and laughter intertwine.