Cast
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Helen Holmes
as Judith Barrier
Leo D. Maloney
as Creed Bombright
Paul Hurst
as Blatchley Turrentine
Thomas G. Lingham
as Uncle Jepthah Turrentine
William Brunton
as Pony Card
Clara Mosher
as Nancy Card
Harold Warner Lloyd
as Andy Turrentine
Sam Morje
as Jeff Turrentine
G.H. Wischussen
as The Marshal
Crew
Director
- J.P. McGowan
Producer
- J.P. McGowan
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Judith of the Cumberlands 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 J.P. McGowan 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 1916, 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 Judith of the Cumberlands took approximately 24 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 62 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 118 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The screenplay went through 6 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The musical score contains over 37 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1916, 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 Judith of the Cumberlands shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike La fiesta del diablo, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Judith of the Cumberlands subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Tarnish and The Fatal Chocolate explore similar territory, Judith of the Cumberlands stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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: July 31, 1916
- Runtime: 1h 2m
