An American Widow 1917
In Frank Reicher's 1917 comedy-drama *An American Widow*, Ethel Barrymore stars as Elizabeth Carter, a wealthy American widow entangled in a high-stakes game of love and inheritance.
Director: Frank Reicher
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is An American Widow (1917) about?
The film follows Elizabeth Carter, a wealthy widow who discovers her late husband's will includes a codicil threatening her fortune if her next husband isn't American. Desperate to marry the Earl of Dettminster, she hires a penniless playwright to enter a sham marriage, leading to a series of comedic and dramatic twists as she attempts to secure her future.
Who directed An American Widow?
Frank Reicher directed *An American Widow* in 1917, bringing a sharp eye for both comedic timing and dramatic tension to the silent-era film.
Who stars in An American Widow?
The film stars Ethel Barrymore as Elizabeth Carter, with Irving Cummings as Jasper Mallory, H. Dudley Hawley, Ernest Stallard, and Charles Dickson rounding out the main cast.
Is An American Widow (1917) worth watching?
While it lacks modern CG or high-energy pacing, *An American Widow* offers a delightful snapshot of early silent cinema with strong performances, especially from Ethel Barrymore. Its blend of comedy and drama makes it a charming pick for fans of classic films, though expectations for groundbreaking storytelling should be tempered.
How long is An American Widow?
The film has a runtime of 52 minutes.
About An American Widow (1917) — Ethel Barrymore's Clever Comedy-Drama Unveiled
In Frank Reicher's 1917 comedy-drama *An American Widow*, Ethel Barrymore stars as Elizabeth Carter, a wealthy American widow entangled in a high-stakes game of love and inheritance. When her late husband's will reveals a surprising codicil—her fortune will pass to her nephew Pitney unless her next husband isn't an American—Elizabeth devises a clever, if morally ambiguous, plan. She enlists the help of a struggling playwright, Jasper Mallory (Irving Cummings), to enter a marriage of convenience, only to find herself drawn into a web of deception that tests her wit and ambition. The film blends sharp social satire with moments of genuine emotion, capturing the glittering yet treacherous world of early 20th-century high society.
Set against a backdrop of opulent estates and lavish social events, *An American Widow (1917)* explores themes of wealth, power, and the lengths people will go to secure their futures. Barrymore's commanding performance anchors the story, while the supporting cast—including H. Dudley Hawley and Ernest Stallard—add layers of intrigue and wit. Director Reicher crafts a film that balances slapstick humor with dramatic tension, offering a fascinating glimpse into the silent-era entertainment landscape.