
As in a Looking Glass 1913
Discover the 1913 silent short *As in a Looking Glass*, directed by Stanner E.V. Taylor and starring Marion Leonard in a drama that weaves themes of survival, deception, and the fragility of high-society comfort. This intriguing early film follows Mrs.
Director: Stanner E.V. Taylor
Cast

Frequently Asked Questions
What is As in a Looking Glass (1913) about?
This 1913 silent drama follows Mrs. Despard, a wealthy widow left penniless after her husband's death. Struggling to maintain her lavish lifestyle, she sends her daughter to live with coastal villagers and turns to running a high-society gambling house with a young partner. Their partnership thrives until a bitter quarrel spirals into betrayal, forcing Despard to confront the cost of her choices.
Who directed As in a Looking Glass?
The film was directed by Stanner E.V. Taylor, a filmmaker active in the early silent era whose work often explored societal contrasts and moral dilemmas.
Who stars in As in a Looking Glass?
The cast is led by Marion Leonard, a prominent actress of the silent film era known for her expressive performances in dramas and social commentaries.
Is As in a Looking Glass (1913) worth watching?
With its concise 30-minute runtime and themes of social class and survival, *As in a Looking Glass* offers a fascinating glimpse into early silent cinema. While not widely rated, its historical significance and Leonard's performance make it a compelling watch for fans of vintage drama and historical storytelling.
How long is As in a Looking Glass?
The film has a runtime of 30 minutes.
About As in a Looking Glass (1913) — Silent-Era Drama of Survival and Deception
Discover the 1913 silent short *As in a Looking Glass*, directed by Stanner E.V. Taylor and starring Marion Leonard in a drama that weaves themes of survival, deception, and the fragility of high-society comfort. This intriguing early film follows Mrs. Despard, a once-opulent widow whose lush lifestyle crumbles after her husband's passing. Left without means, she sends her young daughter to live with coastal villagers while she pursues a new path—one that leads to running a glamorous gambling den for wealthy patrons. As her temporary prosperity blossoms, a bitter falling-out with her partner threatens to unravel everything she's built, revealing the precarious nature of her newfound lifestyle.
Set against the backdrop of early 20th-century social divides, *As in a Looking Glass (1913)* blends drama with a touch of moral ambiguity, capturing the tension between privilege and desperation. Leonard's performance anchors the film, portraying a woman caught between the glittering allure of luxury and the harsh reality of survival. With a runtime of just 30 minutes, this historical gem offers a snapshot of silent-era storytelling at its most engaging and thought-provoking.