
The Deadlier Sex 1920
When a powerful railroad baron suddenly passes away, his headstrong daughter must step into the breach, wielding wit and grit to save the family empire from a cutthroat stock exchange battle.
Director: Robert Thornby
Cast





Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Deadlier Sex (1920) about?
A railroad magnate's daughter steps up after his sudden death, using her survival skills to outwit business rivals in a high-stakes corporate takeover. Her unconventional tactics include a daring plot to secure the company's future, blending drama, comedy, and adventure in this early silent film.
Who directed The Deadlier Sex?
Robert Thornby directed *The Deadlier Sex (1920)*, bringing a keen eye for character-driven storytelling to this silent-era drama-comedy.
Who stars in The Deadlier Sex?
The film stars Blanche Sweet as the resourceful heiress, alongside Winter Hall, Roy Laidlaw, Mahlon Hamilton, and a young Boris Karloff.
Is The Deadlier Sex (1920) worth watching?
*The Deadlier Sex (1920)* offers a unique blend of drama and comedy with a progressive female lead, making it a curious watch for silent film enthusiasts. While its runtime is modest, its themes of resilience and corporate intrigue are timeless, even if it lacks a modern rating.
How long is The Deadlier Sex?
The runtime of *The Deadlier Sex (1920)* is approximately 60 minutes.
About The Deadlier Sex (1920) — A Silent-Era Heiress Fights for Her Empire
When a powerful railroad baron suddenly passes away, his headstrong daughter must step into the breach, wielding wit and grit to save the family empire from a cutthroat stock exchange battle. In this silent-era gem, *The Deadlier Sex (1920)*, Blanche Sweet leads the charge as a resourceful heroine who leverages her outdoor survival instincts to outmaneuver rivals—including a dramatic twist where she turns the tables by kidnapping a key adversary. Directed by Robert Thornby, this drama-comedy hybrid blends sharp social commentary with the rugged charm of early 20th-century America, offering a surprisingly progressive take on gender roles wrapped in suspense and humor.
Robert Thornby's direction infuses the film with a breezy yet tense atmosphere, balancing lighthearted moments with high-stakes drama. Sweet's performance shines as she navigates treacherous corporate waters, surrounded by a talented ensemble including Roy Laidlaw and the young Boris Karloff, whose presence hints at the future horror icon. The story's blend of outdoor adventure and financial intrigue makes *The Deadlier Sex (1920)* a fascinating snapshot of a bygone era's entertainment, where survival skills meet corporate warfare in unexpected ways.