The Secret Man 1917
Directed by the legendary John Ford, *The Secret Man* (1917) is a gripping silent-era Western that blends adventure, redemption, and family drama. Harry Carey stars as Cheyenne Harry, a convict who escapes from prison in a daring garbage-truck breakout before boarding a train.
Director: John Ford
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Secret Man (1917) about?
*The Secret Man* follows escaped convict Cheyenne Harry as he flees authorities after a daring prison break. His path collides with Henry Beaufort, a man returning to his family's ranch under a cloud of secrecy. When chaos erupts, Harry finds himself thrust into a role of unexpected responsibility—protecting Beaufort's young daughter while evading the law.
Who directed The Secret Man?
The film was directed by John Ford, the iconic filmmaker whose work defined decades of Western cinema and earned him legendary status in Hollywood.
Who stars in The Secret Man?
The cast includes Harry Carey as Cheyenne Harry, Edythe Sterling as Molly, J. Morris Foster as Henry Beaufort, Elizabeth Janes as the young Elizabeth, and Western regulars Vester Pegg and William Steele rounding out the ensemble.
Is The Secret Man (1917) worth watching?
While *The Secret Man* predates modern ratings, its tight pacing, classic Western action, and John Ford's direction make it a standout from the silent era. Fans of vintage Westerns and early cinema will appreciate its historical charm and straightforward storytelling. Just keep in mind it's a product of its time—simple in plot but rich in atmosphere.
How long is The Secret Man?
The film runs for 50 minutes.
About The Secret Man (1917) — A Silent-Western Escape Thriller with John Ford's Signature Style
Directed by the legendary John Ford, *The Secret Man* (1917) is a gripping silent-era Western that blends adventure, redemption, and family drama. Harry Carey stars as Cheyenne Harry, a convict who escapes from prison in a daring garbage-truck breakout before boarding a train. Along the way, he crosses paths with Henry Beaufort (J. Morris Foster), a passenger returning to his wealthy uncle's ranch—a reunion complicated by Beaufort's secret marriage to Molly, which his uncle disapproves of. When Beaufort's reckless caretaker, Pedro, causes a wagon crash, Harry steps in to protect Beaufort's young daughter, Elizabeth, setting off a tense chase with the law.
Set against the rugged landscapes of the Old West, *The Secret Man* thrives on themes of loyalty, chance encounters, and the blurred lines between outlaw and protector. The film's tight 50-minute runtime keeps the pace relentless, balancing suspense with moments of quiet human connection. With its raw energy and classic Western tropes, Ford's direction shines through in every frame, making it a must-watch for silent-film enthusiasts and Western aficionados alike.