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Granny's Old Armchair

Granny's Old Armchair (1913)

Jul 18, 1913 8m Drama

Granny Willard, seeing the end of her days approaching, begs to leave her bed and sit in her old armchair, the bumble throne about which three generations have assembled. Her favorite grandson, Tom Willard, has come in from the farm with his buxom wife to visit. So the strong arms of youth carry old age gently to the armchair in the sunlit room for a last meeting with all her kith and kin. There came the rural types known to that modest old cottage, and then that more sacred circle of grandsons with their wives and little ones.

Directed by Hardee Kirkland

Cast

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Vera Hamilton

as Granny Willard

William Stowell
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William Stowell

as Tom Willard - Granny's Grandson

Winifred Greenwood
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Winifred Greenwood

as Sallie Willard - Tom's Wife

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Clarence Johnson

as Walter Willard - Tom's Son

Edwin Wallock
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Edwin Wallock

as Sam Willard - Another Grandson

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Gloria Gallop

as Martha Willard - Sam's Wife

Lafe McKee
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Lafe McKee

as Simon Willard

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Thomas Flynn

as Hy Green

Joseph Hazelton
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Joseph Hazelton

as Doctor Jones

Crew

Director
  • Hardee Kirkland
Writer
  • Chris Lane

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Granny's Old Armchair examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Hardee Kirkland 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 character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 1913, 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 Granny's Old Armchair took approximately 21 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 8 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 39 minutes long.
  • The screenplay went through 12 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 6 months to complete.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.

Historical Context

  • In 1913, when this film was released:
  • Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular culture.
  • The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
  • The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.

How This Film Stands Out

Details

  • Release Date: July 18, 1913
  • Runtime: 8m

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