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Young Mother Hubbard

Young Mother Hubbard (1917)

Oct 29, 1917 1h 14m Drama

Forced by the death of her mother to care for her three brothers and sisters, little Mona Fairfax is known to farmers of her district as Young Mother Hubbard. The children's step-father, heavily in debt and tired of the burden imposed by the little family, abandons his farm, leaving the children, penniless, to shift for themselves. The following day Daniel Banning, a wealthy "country gentleman" and owner of the Fairfax farm, calls to collect back rent. He finds Mona and her children panic-stricken over a note left by their step-father, telling of his decision to leave. Banning turns a deaf ear to Mona's pleas that she be allowed to remain on the farm with her wards. He notifies the Children's Welfare Society. Directors of the society go to the farm, load them into an automobile, and take them to the society's headquarters. At headquarters the chairman calls for volunteers to take the children into their homes.

Directed by Arthur Berthelet

Cast

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Mary McAllister
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Mary McAllister

as Mona

William Clifford
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William Clifford

as John Banning

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Carolyn Irwin

as Mrs. Howard

Granville Bates
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Granville Bates

as James

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Virginia Holmes

as Louise

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Russell McDermott

as Frank

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Baby Peck

as The Baby

Frank Dayton
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Frank Dayton

as Their Father

Robert Bolder
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Robert Bolder

as Undetermined Role

Crew

Director
  • Arthur Berthelet

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Young Mother Hubbard 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 Arthur Berthelet 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 1917, 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 Young Mother Hubbard took approximately 4 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 74 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 115 minutes long.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.
  • The musical score contains over 35 unique compositions.
  • The screenplay went through 12 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.

Historical Context

  • In 1917, when this film was released:
  • Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular culture.
  • 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

Details

  • Release Date: October 29, 1917
  • Runtime: 1h 14m

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