Cast
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Eleanor Boardman
as Thyra, Princess of Svendborg
Conrad Nagel
as Harry Vane, Duke of Chevenix
Edward Connelly
as King of Chekia
Arthur Edmund Carewe
as Gigberto
Louis Payne
as Lord Charles Vane
Vera Lewis
as Princess Erek
Carrie Clark Ward
as Princess Anne
Constance Wylie
as Countess Arline
Dale Fuller
as Governess
Ned Sparks
as Gibson
Mario Carillo
as Prime Minister
David Mir
as Kaylkur
Mary Hawes
as Thyra's Maid
Michael Pleschkoff
as Captain of the Guards
Joan Crawford
as Party Guest (uncredited)
Crew
Director
- Jack Conway
Writer
- Elinor Glyn
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Only Thing 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 Jack Conway 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 1925, 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 Only Thing took approximately 14 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 62 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 103 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 12 months to complete.
- The costume department created over 199 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The film contains approximately 1087 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 1925, when this film was released:
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and 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
While The Only Thing shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Just My Luck, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Only Thing subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Big Girls Don't Cry and The Talented Mr. Ripley explore similar territory, The Only Thing 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: November 22, 1925
- Runtime: 1h 2m
