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The Phantom Extra

The Phantom Extra (1915)

Jul 28, 1915 20m Drama

John Zeldon, the newly elected State senator and pledged to fight for the Miners' Bill, requiring the installation of new safety devices in the coal mines, in his speech to the miners the night before his departure, assures them that they can count on him to the last ditch.On his arrival in the capital he is taken up by Mr. Whalen, the brains of the lobby and secretly its chief, who flatters John and invites him out with a brilliant set of men and women who make a lion of him in order to gain his vote against the proposed bill. John's head is turned by their flattery and when Hazel Flemming, his fiancée and star reporter on his home paper, comes to the capitol for an interview with John, she is amazed to find him wavering and realizes the fight is lost unless she can make him realize the mistake he is making. To do this she has a phantom extra printed telling in thrilling headlines of a horrible accident in the coal mines, wherein 200 miners have lost their lives

Directed by Richard Stanton

Cast

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Richard Stanton
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Richard Stanton

as John Zeldon

Rhea Mitchell
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Rhea Mitchell

as Hazel Flemming

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Harry Keenan

as James Whalen

Louise Glaum
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Louise Glaum

as Whalen's Confederate

Crew

Director
  • Richard Stanton

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, The Phantom Extra 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 Richard Stanton 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 1915, 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 The Phantom Extra took approximately 10 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 20 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 47 minutes long.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 5 months to complete.
  • The film contains approximately 2015 individual shots.

Historical Context

  • In 1915, when this film was released:
  • Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular 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

Details

  • Release Date: July 28, 1915
  • Runtime: 20m

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