A Child of Mystery Poster

A Child of Mystery 1916

50 min📅 1916-12-25

Set against the gritty backdrop of New York's Little Italy in 1916, *A Child of Mystery* weaves a tale of love, crime, and hidden bargains that unfold under the shadow of the notorious Black Hand.

Director: Hobart Henley

Cast

Gertrude Selby
Gertrude Selby
Carlotta
Thomas Jefferson
Thomas Jefferson
Giuseppe
Alfred Allen
Alfred Allen
Michael Gavotti
Mark Fenton
Judge Andrews
Hobart Henley
Hobart Henley
Tony
Paul Byron
Tom
Nanine Wright
Mrs. Andrews

Frequently Asked Questions

What is A Child of Mystery (1916) about?

This silent-era thriller unfolds in New York's Little Italy, where Carlotta's love for Tom is stifled by the Black Hand, a criminal syndicate demanding control over her life. Meanwhile, Judge Andrews faces a grim ultimatum: pay a ruinous ransom to reclaim his kidnapped granddaughter at a high-society charity event.

Who directed A Child of Mystery?

Hobart Henley directed *A Child of Mystery*, a filmmaker known for crafting emotionally charged silent films during Hollywood's early years.

Who stars in A Child of Mystery?

The cast features Gertrude Selby, Thomas Jefferson, Alfred Allen, and Mark Fenton, with Hobart Henley also appearing in the film.

Is A Child of Mystery (1916) worth watching?

As a silent-era crime drama, *A Child of Mystery* offers a fascinating glimpse into early filmmaking and the moral complexities of its time. While its age and unrated status may limit its appeal, its tight plot and historical intrigue make it a compelling watch for fans of classic thrillers.

How long is A Child of Mystery?

The film runs for 50 minutes.

About A Child of Mystery (1916) — Silent-Era Crime Drama with Hidden Ransom and Forbidden Love

Set against the gritty backdrop of New York's Little Italy in 1916, *A Child of Mystery* weaves a tale of love, crime, and hidden bargains that unfold under the shadow of the notorious Black Hand. Directed by Hobart Henley, this silent-era thriller follows Carlotta, a young woman trapped by a web of extortionists who forbid her from seeing her sweetheart, Tom. Meanwhile, the sinister gang holds Judge Andrews' granddaughter hostage, demanding a hefty ransom in exchange for her release—set to be finalized at a glamorous charity ball. The film masterfully blends suspense with emotional depth, exploring themes of control, sacrifice, and the lengths to which people will go to reclaim their lives.

A Child of Mystery (1916) thrives on its atmospheric tension, where the bustling energy of early 20th-century New York collides with the clandestine operations of organized crime. With a runtime of just 50 minutes, this compact yet gripping drama showcases the talents of Gertrude Selby, Thomas Jefferson, and Alfred Allen in a story that feels as timely as it does timeless. Whether you're drawn to its historical intrigue or its pulse-pounding narrative, this silent-era gem invites viewers to step into a world where secrets lurk in every shadow and redemption comes at a price.