The Burglar’s Dilemma Poster

The Burglar’s Dilemma 1912

★ 5.310 votes15 min📅 1912-12-16

D.W. Griffith's *The Burglar's Dilemma* (1912) weaves a tense moral dilemma into a gripping silent-era drama. When a jealous brother murders his sibling in cold blood, he frames an unsuspecting burglar who happens to be breaking into the house at that very moment.

Director: D.W. Griffith

Cast

Lionel Barrymore
Lionel Barrymore
The Householder
Henry B. Walthall
Henry B. Walthall
The Householder's Weakling Brother
Robert Harron
Robert Harron
Young Burglar
Harry Carey
Harry Carey
Older Crook
Adolph Lestina
Adolph Lestina
The Butler
Lillian Gish
Lillian Gish
Birthday Wellwisher
Dorothy Gish
Dorothy Gish
Birthday Wellwisher

Frequently Asked Questions

What is *The Burglar's Dilemma* (1912) about?

This silent-era drama follows a jealous brother who murders his sibling and then frames a burglar who happens to break into the house at the wrong moment. The film explores themes of guilt, deception, and the unintended consequences of a single, reckless act.

Who directed *The Burglar's Dilemma*?

The film was directed by D.W. Griffith, a pioneer of American cinema known for his innovative storytelling and influence on silent films.

Who stars in *The Burglar's Dilemma*?

The cast includes Lionel Barrymore, Henry B. Walthall, Robert Harron, Harry Carey, and Lillian Gish, with standout performances that drive the film's emotional weight.

Is *The Burglar's Dilemma* (1912) worth watching?

While it's a short film from the silent era, *The Burglar's Dilemma* offers a compelling moral dilemma and strong performances that make it engaging for fans of early cinema. Its themes and suspense still resonate today, despite its brevity.

How long is *The Burglar's Dilemma*?

The runtime for *The Burglar's Dilemma* is 15 minutes.

The Burglar's Dilemma (1912) — A Silent-Era Moral Thriller by D.W. Griffith

D.W. Griffith's *The Burglar's Dilemma* (1912) weaves a tense moral dilemma into a gripping silent-era drama. When a jealous brother murders his sibling in cold blood, he frames an unsuspecting burglar who happens to be breaking into the house at that very moment. The film masterfully blends crime and drama, exploring themes of guilt, fate, and the thin line between crime and justice. Atmospheric and suspenseful, Griffith's direction keeps viewers on edge as the true culprit's deception unravels. With its early 20th-century storytelling flair, the short film offers a snapshot of cinema's formative years, where every frame carried weight and meaning.

The silent short's power lies in its simplicity and moral complexity, a hallmark of Griffith's work. Lionel Barrymore and Henry B. Walthall deliver standout performances, bringing depth to their conflicted roles. Though just 15 minutes long, *The Burglar's Dilemma* packs an emotional punch, leaving audiences to ponder whether justice or tragedy will prevail.