Tim Goodwin and his wife Corrie are living in poverty when Tim's oil well strikes it rich. He soon works his way to the top of the social scale, but Corrie doesn't change at all--she stays a dour, drab woman with no social skills whatsoever. Tim gets so embarrassed by her that he hires a "social secretary" for her to teach her how to function in the social strata in which they find themselves.
A Self Made Wife represents a fascinating example of cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director John Francis Dillon brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1923, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
The production of A Self Made Wife took approximately 33 months from pre-production to final cut.
The costume department created over 277 unique costume pieces for the production.
The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
In 1923, when this film was released:
The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While A Self Made Wife shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Conspiracy Theory, which focuses more on action than character development, A Self Made Wife subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Alfie and London explore similar territory, A Self Made Wife stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.