Because the plot of this very well-produced silent film is so easily recognizable as "Cinderella", it can be one of your most enjoyable introductions to both the silent film genre, and to one of its most popular actresses, Colleen Moore. The film was an adaptation of the then popular new comic strip "Ella Cinders", with changes to the heroine's situation that were perfectly suited to a silent film starring Ms. Moore. The film easily transcends its source, and succeeds as prime example of the often repeated story about a young woman achieving her dream to become a Hollywood movie star - itself, a "Cinderella" story. Who knew comic strips could be perfect silent film fodder
The Hollywood "movie set" scenes aren't as clever as in other films of this type, despite the appearance of Harry Langdon and others, in cameos. Director Alfred E. Green, Lloyd Hughes (as George Waite), and Vera Lewis (as Ma Cinders) make good contributions. Interestingly, Moore is best on screen, alone, with a lion or fire; and, when attempting to, "Master the art of expressing every emotion with the eyes," imitate Jackie Coogan, and pose at a "photo session" for the movie star contest she eventually wins. "Ella Cinders" was a huge success, and helped propel Colleen Moore to the #1 position on Quigley Publications' "Box Office Stars" list for 1926.
******** Ella Cinders (6/6/26) Alfred E. Green ~ Colleen Moore, Lloyd Hughes, Vera Lewis
The Hollywood "movie set" scenes aren't as clever as in other films of this type, despite the appearance of Harry Langdon and others, in cameos. Director Alfred E. Green, Lloyd Hughes (as George Waite), and Vera Lewis (as Ma Cinders) make good contributions. Interestingly, Moore is best on screen, alone, with a lion or fire; and, when attempting to, "Master the art of expressing every emotion with the eyes," imitate Jackie Coogan, and pose at a "photo session" for the movie star contest she eventually wins. "Ella Cinders" was a huge success, and helped propel Colleen Moore to the #1 position on Quigley Publications' "Box Office Stars" list for 1926.
******** Ella Cinders (6/6/26) Alfred E. Green ~ Colleen Moore, Lloyd Hughes, Vera Lewis