
The Make-Believe Wife 1918
Set against the rustic charm of an early 20th-century mountain retreat, *The Make-Believe Wife (1918)* follows a group of carefree vacationers whose plans for adventure take an unexpected turn.
Director: John S. Robertson
Cast





Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Make-Believe Wife (1918) about?
This early silent comedy centers on two friends who become stranded overnight during a mountain hike, forcing them into a pretend marriage upon their return. The situation spirals into comedic chaos as their respective engagements complicate the farce.
Who directed The Make-Believe Wife?
The film was directed by John S. Robertson, a prolific filmmaker known for his work in both silent and early sound eras.
Who stars in The Make-Believe Wife?
The film stars Billie Burke, Alfred Hickman, David Powell, Ida Darling, and Wray Page in its lead roles.
Is The Make-Believe Wife (1918) worth watching?
While it's a product of its time, *The Make-Believe Wife* offers charming period appeal and breezy humor that holds up surprisingly well. Fans of silent-era rom-coms or classic comedies will likely find its lighthearted premise an enjoyable watch.
How long is The Make-Believe Wife?
The movie runs for 50 minutes, making it a perfect short film for a quick dose of vintage entertainment.
About The Make-Be-Believe Wife (1918) — Silent Comedy Classic with Billie Burke Explores Love by Accident
Set against the rustic charm of an early 20th-century mountain retreat, *The Make-Believe Wife (1918)* follows a group of carefree vacationers whose plans for adventure take an unexpected turn. After a hiking expedition leaves Phyllis Ashbrook and John Manning separated from the rest, the two find themselves stranded in a remote cabin overnight. When they finally rejoin the group the following day, social expectations force them into a hasty—and entirely fictional—marriage, even though both are already committed to other partners. Directed with lighthearted precision by John S. Robertson, this silent-era comedy thrives on playful misunderstandings and the absurdity of societal norms clashing with spontaneity.
Billie Burke and Alfred Hickman lead the charismatic ensemble cast, their chemistry driving a story that balances gentle satire with genuine warmth. The film's breezy pacing and crisp humor paint a snapshot of an era when rules were both rigid and ripe for bending. With themes of deception by circumstance and the whims of fate, *The Make-Believe Wife (1918)* remains a delightful artifact of early cinema, offering a window into how love stories could take delightfully circuitous routes.