Cast
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Adolph Lestina
as The Miser
Ynez Seabury
as Little Kathy
Kate Toncray
as Little Kathy's Mother
Edward Dillon
as Jules, an Impoverished Thief
Robert Harron
as Bakery Assistant
Wilfred Lucas
as First Crook
Charles Hill Mailes
as Second Crook
William J. Butler
as Policeman
Donald Crisp
as Policeman
Blanche Sweet
as Neighbor
Linda Arvidson
as Kathy's Mother
Lionel Barrymore
as Jules - the Thief
Crew
Director
- D.W. Griffith
Writer
- George Hennessy
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Miser's Heart 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 D.W. Griffith 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 1911, 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 Miser's Heart took approximately 28 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 16 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 70 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The costume department created over 301 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 1911, when this film was released:
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
- 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 The Miser's Heart 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 Ref, which focuses more on action than character development, The Miser's Heart offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Intact and Video Kings explore similar territory, The Miser's Heart stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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: November 20, 1911
- Runtime: 16m
