The Bottle Imp 1917
Dive into the captivating world of *The Bottle Imp (1917)*, Marshall Neilan's enchanting blend of drama and fantasy set against the lush backdrop of Hawaii.
Director: Marshall Neilan
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is *The Bottle Imp (1917)* about?
*The Bottle Imp* is a silent-era fantasy drama that follows Lopaka, a poor Hawaiian fisherman, as he falls for Kokua, a princess forbidden to him by her royal father. To win her hand, he must obtain rare feather cloaks—only to stumble upon a mystical bottle housing Kono, the god of volcanoes, whose power could change his destiny forever.
Who directed *The Bottle Imp*?
Marshall Neilan directed *The Bottle Imp (1917)*, bringing his signature blend of emotional depth and visual storytelling to this early silent classic.
Who stars in *The Bottle Imp*?
The film stars Sessue Hayakawa as Lopaka, Lehua Waipahu as Kokua, and features H. Komshi, George Kuwa, Guy Oliver, and Margaret Loomis in pivotal roles.
Is *The Bottle Imp (1917)* worth watching?
While *The Bottle Imp* lacks a modern IMDb rating, its cultural significance and Marshall Neilan's adept direction make it a compelling watch for fans of early fantasy and silent films. The story's themes of love, power, and consequence resonate, even if its pacing feels dated by today's standards.
How long is *The Bottle Imp*?
*The Bottle Imp* has a runtime of 50 minutes.
About The Bottle Imp (1917) — Silent-Era Fantasy Drama with Sessue Hayakawa
Dive into the captivating world of *The Bottle Imp (1917)*, Marshall Neilan's enchanting blend of drama and fantasy set against the lush backdrop of Hawaii. This forgotten gem follows Lopaka, a humble fisherman whose life takes a magical turn when he falls for Kokua, a princess of royal lineage. Her father demands an impossible feat—two rare feather cloaks—sending Lopaka on a perilous quest into the mountains. His journey leads to a fateful encounter with a dying priest who offers a supernatural bargain: a wishing bottle containing Kono, the volatile god of volcanoes. As Lopaka grapples with love, ambition, and the consequences of tampering with divine forces, the film explores themes of sacrifice, redemption, and the intoxicating allure of power. With its rich cultural tapestry and haunting atmosphere, *The Bottle Imp* weaves a timeless tale of desire versus duty.
Starring the magnetic Sessue Hayakawa as Lopaka and Lehua Waipahu as the ethereal Kokua, this silent-era masterpiece delivers emotional depth and visual poetry. Neilan's direction infuses the narrative with a dreamlike quality, balancing intimate human drama with the grandeur of Hawaiian mythology. The film's understated yet powerful storytelling lingers long after the final frame, making it a hidden treasure for fans of early cinema and supernatural lore alike.