Underground Favorites Parallel to the Artistry of The Coquette: Cul...

The The Coquette Phenomenon

The visceral impact of The Coquette (1915) stems from to transcend the limitations of its 1915 budget and technology.

Knowing that the examination about to be made of his books will reveal his peculations, Cadwell confesses to his daughter. Enlisting the aid of Don, her sweetheart, who is employed in the same office, Doris saves her father from disgrace. As the result, however, the crime is shifted to Don's shoulders and the boy is sent to prison. This, although Hall, his employer, believes him innocent. Later, Cadwell compels Doris to become engaged to Lane, a man of wealth. Determined to wed no one but Don, Doris fascinates Harris, one of the prison guards, and induces him to aid her in her plan to free Don. In turn, she promises to become Harris's wife. Don escapes from jail, aided by the keeper. The two are joined by Doris and make a break for liberty in the girl's auto. The pursuit is taken up and in the running fight which ensues, Harris meets his death. Cadwell learns of the escape and does all he can to bring about the capture of the fugitives. Don and Doris are wed. Hunted, the two are on the verge of desperation when they accidentally meet Hall. Resolved to shield her father no longer, Doris tells Hall the truth. The latter promptly takes the girl and the escaped prisoner to see his friend, the Governor. Cadwell is present during this interview. The father denounces Doris's story, but a slip of the tongue reveals the truth, the real culprit is overtaken by the retribution while Doris and Don know happiness once more.