Cast
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Max Davidson
as Ferdinand Brandeis
Snitz Edwards
as Herr Bauer
Grace Marvin
as Molly Brandeis
Bernice Radom
as Little Fanny Brandeis
Danny Hoy
as Aloysius
E. Alyn Warren
as Rabbi Thalman
Raymond Lee
as Little Theodore Brandeis
Josef Swickard
as The Great Schabelitz
Richard Cummings
as Father Ritzpatrick
Joseph Sterns
as Little Clarence Hyle
Mabel Julienne Scott
as Fanny Brandeis
John Davidson
as Theodore Brandeis
Earl Schenck
as Clarence Hyle
Stuart Holmes
as Michael Fenger
Crew
Director
- Tod Browning
Writer
- Tod Browning
- George Yohalem
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, No Woman Knows 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 Tod Browning 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 1921, 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 No Woman Knows took approximately 25 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 127 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 441 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
- The musical score contains over 48 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1921, 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 No Woman Knows shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Lars and the Real Girl, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, No Woman Knows offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Fujimi Orchestra: Cold Front Conductor and The Straight Story explore similar territory, No Woman Knows 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: September 19, 1921
- Runtime: 1h 10m
