
The Broken Brake 1916
In the rugged isolation of a 1916 mountain construction camp, tensions flare when a discharged worker confronts the assistant foreman, setting off a chain of events that leads to a devastating dynamite explosion. Directed by J.
Director: J. Gunnis Davis
Cast


Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Broken Brake (1916) about?
*The Broken Brake* follows a volatile confrontation at a mountain construction camp, where a discharged worker's gunshot triggers a dynamite explosion, injuring multiple laborers. The film dramatizes the unintended fallout of workplace disputes and personal vendettas, unfolding in a tense, compact narrative.
Who directed The Broken Brake?
The Broken Brake was directed by J. Gunnis Davis, a filmmaker known for his work in early silent cinema.
Who stars in The Broken Brake?
The Broken Brake features Helen Gibson, George A. Williams, George Routh, and Scott Pembroke in key roles.
Is The Broken Brake (1916) worth watching?
As a silent-era thriller, *The Broken Brake* offers a fascinating glimpse into early filmmaking, though its 12-minute runtime means it's more of a historical curiosity than a modern masterpiece. Fans of silent cinema or short thrillers may find its fast-paced drama and explosive climax rewarding.
How long is The Broken Brake?
The Broken Brake runs for 12 minutes, delivering a concise yet impactful viewing experience.
About The Broken Brake (1916) — Silent Thriller of Revenge and Explosive Consequences
In the rugged isolation of a 1916 mountain construction camp, tensions flare when a discharged worker confronts the assistant foreman, setting off a chain of events that leads to a devastating dynamite explosion. Directed by J. Gunnis Davis, this silent-era thriller immerses viewers in a high-stakes drama of vengeance and unintended consequences, where a single, fateful gunshot spirals into chaos. Starring Helen Gibson, George A. Williams, and Scott Pembroke, *The Broken Brake (1916)* captures the raw intensity of early cinema, blending suspense with social commentary on labor disputes and workplace safety.
The film's gritty atmosphere is heightened by the stark contrast between the tranquil mountainside and the sudden violence erupting within its camp. As the explosion rocks the construction site, the story unfolds with relentless tension, exploring themes of retaliation, industrial hazards, and the fragile balance between human conflict and explosive force. With its concise 12-minute runtime, this short thriller delivers a punchy, memorable glimpse into silent cinema's penchant for dramatic storytelling and high-stakes action.
Stream or download *The Broken Brake (1916)* to experience this forgotten gem of early 20th-century filmmaking, now preserved as a testament to the era's cinematic innovation.