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Love and Duty

Love and Duty (1916)

Sep 21, 1916 12m Comedy

Ollie is a love-struck private who is drilled by his unsympathetic lieutenant at reveille. The colonel of the regiment wants his daughter to marry the lieutenant but she has her heart set on the chubby-faced Hardy, who himself is in love with another woman. He is thrown into a cell for disobeying orders, where he later escapes with the assistance of his sweetheart, and a casual touch of assault when he bumps the guard with his large stomach. The final chase scene ends with everyone getting what they want.

Directed by Will Louis

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Will Louis
  • Arthur Hotaling
Producer
  • Louis Burstein

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Thematic Analysis

Love and Duty represents a fascinating example of Comedy cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on interpersonal relationships and emotional connections. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director Will Louis 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 pacing and visual storytelling 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 Love and Duty took approximately 16 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 12 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 44 minutes long.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.
  • The costume department created over 232 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • The musical score contains over 73 unique compositions.

Historical Context

  • In 1916, 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

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

Unlike Porch Pirates, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Love and Duty subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like The Apartment and Inspector Gadget explore similar territory, Love and Duty stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: September 21, 1916
  • Runtime: 12m

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