Backdrop preview Dodging a Million backdrop
Dodging a Million

Dodging a Million (1918)

Jan 27, 1918 58m Comedy

Mabel plays Arabella Flynn, a shop girl who mistakenly thinks she is an heiress. She gets in a jam on a spending spree only to discover that she actually is an heiress and can marry the heir of a corset manufacturer.

Directed by George Loane Tucker

Cast

View All

Crew

Director
  • George Loane Tucker
Writer
  • George Loane Tucker

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to review this movie!
Sign in to leave a review.

Thematic Analysis

Dodging a Million represents a fascinating example of Comedy cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director George Loane Tucker 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 1918, 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 Dodging a Million took approximately 28 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 58 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 80 minutes long.
  • The film contains approximately 1268 individual shots.
  • The costume department created over 395 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 9 months to complete.

Historical Context

  • In 1918, when this film was released:
  • The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
  • 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

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

Unlike Boys Will Be Boys, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Dodging a Million subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like Edgar Takes the Cake and Edgar's Jonah Day explore similar territory, Dodging a Million stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

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: January 27, 1918
  • Runtime: 58m