The Auteur's Selection In the Shadow of S.O.S.: Cult Guide

The S.O.S. Phenomenon

As William Buckley's most celebrated work, it defines to create a dialogue between the viewer and the cult status.

Harold and John Drexel, heirs to the Drexel estate, live alone with their sister Vivian. John is sensible while Harold is reckless. When John proposes to Ruth Dixon, her sister Mary, who had always been in love with him, is heartbroken. Meanwhile Harold becomes entangled with Lorrane Del Rica, a woman of few scruples who, with her lover, Freddie Brooks, is in the racket of blackmailing the sons of the rich. Through Lorrane, Harold contracts a venereal disease. On the eve of their marriage, Ruth induces John to take her to a bar where she meets Harold. Becoming enamored of each other, Ruth and Harold marry after she breaks her engagement to John. She soon realizes her mistake, however, when their child is born a hopeless cripple. Harold, placing the blame on Lorrane and Brooks, rushes to their home and slays them, committing suicide after the deed is accomplished. Ruth also attempts suicide, but is prevented from doing so. All does not end darkly, however, as John finally realizes his love for Mary and the two are wed.

A visual fragment from the archive: The thematic resonance of S.O.S. perfectly mirrors the editorial trajectory of our deep dive.