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You Never Know Your Luck

You Never Know Your Luck (1919)

Nov 17, 1919 50m Crime Drama

Ranch foreman Kerry has boarded with Kitty Tynan and her mother for five years in western Canada, his past is a mystery to everyone. He is actually an English aristocrat who lost all his money gambling and left the country in search of work. Kerry and his friend Horan own an option on property which crooked lawyer Burlingame is trying to secure. Burlingame's cohort Logan murders Hogan, and is caught and arrested. In the trial, Burlingame forces Kerry to admit his past, and succeeds in preventing Kerry from receiving bank assistance. When Kerry is shot, Kitty opens a letter from Kerry's wife that he had been carrying for five years, and cables her. Kerry's wife arrives and informs him that his last bet in England had turned out to be a $20,000 winner. Kerry is able to use the money just in time to foil Burlingame and secure the property, thus winning prosperity and the affections of his wife.

Directed by Frank Powell

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Frank Powell

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, You Never Know Your Luck 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 Frank Powell 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 1919, 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 You Never Know Your Luck took approximately 15 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 50 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 80 minutes long.
  • The film contains approximately 901 individual shots.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
  • The musical score contains over 73 unique compositions.

Historical Context

  • In 1919, 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 You Never Know Your Luck shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Infatuation, which focuses more on action than character development, You Never Know Your Luck offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like The Ace of Cads and The Fall of the Romanoffs explore similar territory, You Never Know Your Luck 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 17, 1919
  • Runtime: 50m