A House Divided 1913
A House Divided (1913), directed by pioneering filmmaker Alice Guy-Blaché, is a short silent comedy that explores the amusing yet relatable chaos of marital distrust.
Director: Alice Guy-Blaché
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is A House Divided (1913) about?
This silent-era comedy follows a married couple who, after suspecting infidelity, try living together—but apart. Their experiment in forced cohabitation spirals into a series of comedic misadventures, highlighting the absurd lengths people go to avoid facing relationship truths.
Who directed A House Divided?
Alice Guy-Blaché, a trailblazing filmmaker and one of the first women to direct movies, helmed this 1913 short.
Who stars in A House Divided?
The film features Fraunie Fraunholz, Marian Swayne, and Vinnie Burns in lead roles, bringing the story's marital farce to life with expressive performances.
Is A House Divided (1913) worth watching?
As a silent-era comedy from film history's early days, A House Divided offers a charming, lighthearted escape. Its 13-minute runtime and playful take on marital strife make it a fun watch for vintage cinema enthusiasts and curious newcomers alike.
How long is A House Divided?
A House Divided is a short film with a runtime of 13 minutes.
About A House Divided (1913) — Alice Guy-Blaché's Classic Comedy of Marital Mischief
A House Divided (1913), directed by pioneering filmmaker Alice Guy-Blaché, is a short silent comedy that explores the amusing yet relatable chaos of marital distrust. The story follows a couple who, convinced of each other's infidelity, opt for a bizarre solution—"living separately together" under the same roof. Their experiment in forced separation unfolds with slapstick humor and clever twists, turning domestic tension into a farcical spectacle. Guy-Blaché's direction infuses the film with playful energy, capturing the absurdity of human insecurities in early 20th-century America. Starring Fraunie Fraunholz, Marian Swayne, and Vinnie Burns, this 13-minute gem blends wit, irony, and lighthearted social commentary. A House Divided remains a fascinating glimpse into silent-era storytelling, where even the smallest misunderstandings spark big laughs.
The film's themes of trust, communication (or the lack thereof), and the lengths people go to avoid confrontation still resonate today. Its breezy pacing and expressive performances make it an appealing watch for fans of vintage comedy and early cinema. Originally a short by the groundbreaking Alice Guy-Blaché—one of the first women to direct films—A House Divided stands as both a historical artifact and a delightful comedy. Perfect for those seeking a quick, charming escape into the past.