Cast
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Lewis Sargent
as Huckleberry Finn
Katherine Griffith
as Widow Douglas
Martha Mattox
as Miss Watson
Frank Lanning
as Huck's Father
Orral Humphrey
as The Duke
Tom Bates
as The King
Gordon Griffith
as Tom Sawyer
Edythe Chapman
as Aunt Polly
Thelma Salter
as Becky Thatcher
George H. Reed
as Jim
L.M. Wells
as Judge Thatcher
Harry L. Rattenberry
as Uncle Harvey
Esther Ralston
as Mary Jane Wilks
Fay Lemport
as Johanna
Eunice Murdock Moore
as Mrs. Sally Phelps
Crew
Director
- William Desmond Taylor
Writer
- Julia Crawford Ivers
Producer
- William Desmond Taylor
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Huckleberry Finn 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 William Desmond Taylor 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 1920, 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 Huckleberry Finn took approximately 9 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 70 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 93 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The costume department created over 369 unique costume pieces for the production.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 3 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1920, when this film was released:
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- 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: February 29, 1920
- Runtime: 1h 10m