
Risky Business 1926
"Every Womans Knows That Matrimony is RISKY BUSINESS"
In the glittering yet treacherous world of 1920s high society, Alan Hale's *Risky Business (1926)* delivers a sparkling comedy-romance brimming with wit, deception, and the timeless clash between love and parental interference.
Director: Alan Hale
Cast







Frequently Asked Questions
What is Risky Business (1926) about?
*Risky Business* follows Cecily Stoughton, a young woman torn between her domineering mother's insistence on a practical marriage and her own romantic desires. With a series of elaborate schemes, her mother tries to derail Cecily's relationship with Ted Pyncheon, setting the stage for a battle of wit, will, and societal expectations.
Who directed Risky Business?
Risky Business was directed by Alan Hale, a versatile filmmaker known for his work in both silent and early talkie eras.
Who stars in Risky Business?
The film stars Vera Reynolds as Cecily Stoughton, Ethel Clayton as her mother, with Kenneth Thomson, Ward Crane, and Zasu Pitts rounding out the cast.
Is Risky Business (1926) worth watching?
While it isn't rated on IMDb, *Risky Business* is a charming relic of early Hollywood comedy-romance, perfect for fans of silent films or those who appreciate witty, lighthearted storytelling. Its themes of love versus duty remain universally relatable, even a century later.
How long is Risky Business?
Risky Business runs for 86 minutes, offering a concise yet engaging escape into 1920s romance and intrigue.
About Risky Business (1926) — A Jazz Age Romantic Comedy with Parental Schemes
In the glittering yet treacherous world of 1920s high society, Alan Hale's *Risky Business (1926)* delivers a sparkling comedy-romance brimming with wit, deception, and the timeless clash between love and parental interference. The story follows Cecily Stoughton, a young woman caught between her domineering mother's relentless pursuit of a socially advantageous match and her own heart's desire for dashing Ted Pyncheon. With a string of clever schemes hatched by the overbearing matriarch, the film teases out themes of rebellion, societal expectations, and the pursuit of personal happiness—all wrapped in the polished glamour of the Jazz Age. Vera Reynolds and Ethel Clayton shine as the conflicting forces in Cecily's life, while the breezy direction by Alan Hale keeps the tone light yet sharply observant.
Set against a backdrop of lavish parties and whispered intrigue, *Risky Business* finds humor in the absurd lengths parents will go to control their children's futures. The film's playful tone belies its sharp commentary on marriage as a high-stakes gamble, where love often takes a backseat to convenience. Whether you're drawn in by classic Hollywood charm or the timeless tug-of-war between family and romance, this silent-era gem offers a delightful blend of mischief and heart—perfect for fans of early cinematic storytelling.