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The World Against Him

The World Against Him (1916)

Dec 25, 1916 1h Drama

Cowboy Mark West lives on a ranch with his sister Mary, who suffers from a serious spinal disorder. Flighty East Coast socialite Violet Ridgeway flirts with Mark while vacationing at the ranch but returns to her fiancée, Dr. Welsh, when she leaves. Mark has been working hard to earn money for an operation Mary, which Doctor Welsh and Doctor Boyd agree to perform without telling him how dangerous it is. When Mary dies Mark receives a letter detailing the doctor’s risk-taking, filled with vengeance Mark kills Boyd, but Welsh flees to safety. Mark is imprisoned, but Violet convinces him to marry her, satisfying a stipulation in her late aunt's will. Mark escapes taking Welsh and Violet hostage. They are set upon by a villain and in the confrontation Welsh’s cowardly act shows Violet Mark’s true worth and the pair escapes to freedom across the Canadian border.

Directed by Frank Hall Crane

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Frank Hall Crane

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, The World Against Him 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 Frank Hall Crane 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 1916, 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 The World Against Him took approximately 4 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 60 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 114 minutes long.
  • The screenplay went through 12 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.

Historical Context

  • In 1916, when this film was released:
  • The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
  • The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
  • The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.

How This Film Stands Out

While The World Against Him shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike The Stepping Stone, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The World Against Him subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like The Tower of Lies and Jewel explore similar territory, The World Against Him stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: December 25, 1916
  • Runtime: 1h

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