His Last Dollar 1914
In the 1914 silent-era comedy-drama *His Last Dollar*, Frank Powell crafts a tale of ambition and deception in early 20th-century New York.
Director: Frank Powell
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is His Last Dollar (1914) about?
*His Last Dollar* follows Joe Braxton, a wealthy rancher with a modest past, who becomes the prey of a scheming swindler and a manipulative socialite in New York City. When the villain targets his former employer and tries to corrupt the employer's virtuous daughter, Eleanor, she risks her reputation to warn Joe—just as he's set to lose everything on the stock exchange.
Who directed His Last Dollar?
*His Last Dollar* was directed by Frank Powell, a pioneer of early silent cinema known for his work with major studios of the era.
Who stars in His Last Dollar?
The film stars David Higgins as Joe Braxton, Betty Gray as Eleanor Downs, Hal Clarendon as Tom Linson, and Edgar L. Davenport as Colonel Downs, with Wellington A. Playter and Jack Pickford rounding out the ensemble.
Is His Last Dollar (1914) worth watching?
While over a century old, *His Last Dollar* offers a fascinating glimpse into early silent-era storytelling, with a mix of comedy, drama, and moral tension. Fans of vintage cinema or tales of underdog triumphs may find it engaging, though its appeal depends on appreciation for period films.
How long is His Last Dollar?
*His Last Dollar* has a runtime of 50 minutes.
About His Last Dollar (1914) — A Silent-Era Tale of Fortune, Fraud, and Redemption
In the 1914 silent-era comedy-drama *His Last Dollar*, Frank Powell crafts a tale of ambition and deception in early 20th-century New York. The story follows Joe Braxton, a self-made millionaire rancher with humble roots as a newsboy and jockey, who ventures into the city's glittering high society. His wealth and optimism make him a target for the cunning swindler Tom Linson and the alluring socialite Viola Grayson, who plot to drain his fortune. When Linson targets Joe's former employer, Colonel Downs, and attempts to manipulate Eleanor, the colonel's principled daughter, the stage is set for a dramatic confrontation of wits and morals.
The film unfolds with the energy of a classic melodrama, blending sharp comedic moments with the tension of a high-stakes financial thriller. Powell's direction brings out the contrasts between rural innocence and urban corruption, while the ensemble cast, led by David Higgins and Betty Gray, delivers performances steeped in charm and authenticity. *His Last Dollar* isn't just a period piece—it's a snapshot of the era's social dynamics, where trust is fragile and the last dollar can mean everything.