
Billions 1920
"SCANDAL-always sets people talking SCANDAL-in high life is a choice morsel for the gossips...There is a SCANDAL in the photoplay that will astonish you!"
In Billions (1920), a silent-era comedy-drama directed by Ray C. Smallwood, the glittering world of early 1920s New York becomes a playground for identity swaps, artistic passions, and romantic misadventures.
Director: Ray C. Smallwood
Cast







Frequently Asked Questions
What is Billions (1920) about?
Billions follows a Russian princess who secretly supports a struggling poet, only for him to inherit a fortune and swap identities with a friend. Chaos ensues when the poet falls for the princess—who's already enchanted by his poorer friend. It's a tale of mistaken identity, love, and the unexpected twists of fate.
Who directed Billions?
Billions was directed by Ray C. Smallwood, a filmmaker known for his work in the silent era's comedic and dramatic productions.
Who stars in Billions?
The film features Alla Nazimova as Princess Triloff, Charles Bryant as Owen Carey, and Victor Potel as Frank Manners, among other notable performers of the time.
Is Billions (1920) worth watching?
As an early silent comedy-drama, Billions offers a nostalgic glimpse into 1920s storytelling and star-studded performances. While it may lack modern effects, its clever plot and charming cast make it a curiosity worth exploring for fans of classic cinema or those curious about silent-era filmmaking.
How long is Billions?
Billions has a runtime of 60 minutes.
About Billions (1920) — Silent-Era Comedy of Identity and Romance
In Billions (1920), a silent-era comedy-drama directed by Ray C. Smallwood, the glittering world of early 1920s New York becomes a playground for identity swaps, artistic passions, and romantic misadventures. The story follows Princess Triloff, a Russian emigrée who finds solace in America's arts scene and secretly funds the poetry of struggling wordsmith Owen Carey. When Owen unexpectedly inherits a fortune, he crafts an audacious plan to preserve the life of his penniless friend Frank Manners—leading to tangled romances and a whirlwind of mistaken identities. Set against the backdrop of lavish resorts and bohemian salons, the film blends lighthearted humor with poignant themes of sacrifice, disguise, and the pursuit of love beneath the surface of high society.
With its witty social satire and charming performances from Alla Nazimova and Charles Bryant, Billions (1920) captures the essence of an era where fortune and folly collide, leaving audiences both amused and thoughtful about the true cost of glamour and generosity.