Cast
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Mary Pickford
as Rebecca Randall
Eugene O'Brien
as Adam Ladd
Helen Jerome Eddy
as Hannah Randall
Marjorie Daw
as Emma Jane Perkins
Charles Ogle
as Mr. Cobb
Mayme Kelso
as Jane Sawyer
Josephine Crowell
as Miranda Sawyer
Jack McDonald
as Reverend Jonathan Smellie
Violet Wilkey
as Minnie Smellie
Milton Berle
as Bit Part (Uncredited)
Zasu Pitts
as Undetermined Role (uncredited)
Crew
Director
- Marshall Neilan
Writer
- Frances Marion
Reviews
CinemaSerf
This was never a story I really took to as a child, and even though Mary Pickford in the title role brings a great deal of charm to the character, I still don't much care for the story. "Rebecca" is a young girl whose family have fallen on hard times. One of seven siblings, she is chosen to go and live with her two maiden aunts - "Jane" (Mayme Kelso) and Miranda (Josephine Crowell) who, frankly, don't care much for or about her. Her personality is not for giving up, though, and she determines to make friends - alighting on the poverty stricken "Simpson' family to whose aid she intends to come (aka well meaning meddling). The film is pretty episodic, as is the book, in nature - and frequently her character borders on the annoyingly precocious. This production is well constructed and at times is a little more adventurous - the storm scene at the end is quite effective, and there's no denying that the star has the part down to a tee - it's just not a particularly enjoyable part to watch develop - and, well, I didn't. The two aunts play their indifferent, curmudgeonly, parts well enough and there is a bit of light-heartedness conveyed adequately via the inter-titles, but this just wasn't for me.
Jun 6, 2022
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm 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 Marshall Neilan 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 1917, 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 Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm took approximately 6 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 78 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 120 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 10 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The musical score contains over 62 unique compositions.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1917, when this film was released:
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Jomonte Suvisheshangal, which focuses more on action than character development, Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Apple Mortgage Cake and A Summer Romance explore similar territory, Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm 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 22, 1917
- Runtime: 1h 18m
