Marion Leonard (as Fanny) and James Kirkwood (as Ben) seem to be a happily married couple. One day, Mr. Kirkwood goes out on a hunting jaunt, in a canoe; when he rises to fire at some game, the canoe capsizes. Apparently a poor swimmer, Kirkwood is rescued by nearby hunter Frank Powell (as Ed). Mr. Powell helps dry Kirkwood off, and the two crawl under a blanket for the evening. The next morning, Kirkwood thanks Powell for his kindness, and goes on his way. Then, Ms. Leonard meets Powell, while on one of her shopping trips; and, they kindle an attraction. Soon, Leonard and Powell are meeting regularly, and decide to run away together, leaving Kirkwood in the cold
Remarkable 1909 story, content-wise, from D.W. Griffith, G.W. Bitzer, and the good folks at Biograph. Leonard's performance as a "torn-between-two-loves" woman is a highlight, ahead of its time. Her leading men do are quite good, also, with some implausible situations. "Fools of Fate" is a cut above the usual, due to its interesting premise, and Marion Leonard's performance.
***** Fools of Fate (10/7/09) D.W. Griffith ~ Marion Leonard, James Kirkwood, Frank Powell
Remarkable 1909 story, content-wise, from D.W. Griffith, G.W. Bitzer, and the good folks at Biograph. Leonard's performance as a "torn-between-two-loves" woman is a highlight, ahead of its time. Her leading men do are quite good, also, with some implausible situations. "Fools of Fate" is a cut above the usual, due to its interesting premise, and Marion Leonard's performance.
***** Fools of Fate (10/7/09) D.W. Griffith ~ Marion Leonard, James Kirkwood, Frank Powell