Film vs Film
Select two cult films to compare side by side.
Flames Synopsis
Herbert Landis, who secretly loves Anne Travers, is sent by her father to supervise construction of a bridge in Oregon. Anne insists that society man Hilary Fenton join the party, and as a result Landis broods in his cabin, which he shares with his foreman Ole Bergson. Ole, who claims to know all about love, disguises himself as well-known desperado Blackie Blanchette and kidnaps Anne, leaving a note urging Landis to "rescue" her; however, Ole is captured by the real Blackie. While a raging forest fire breaks out, Landis rides to the cabin and confronts Blackie; as the fire reaches the cabin, Blackie meets a fiery death while Landis and Anne stagger through the flames to the river. The other suitor, finding country customs too rough, departs, leaving Anne to discover her true love.
The Great Shadow Synopsis
Jim McDonald, the foreman of a shipbuilding plant and head of the labor union, strives to combat the anarchistic propaganda being put forth by Klimoff, the leader of a Bolshevik gang whose goal is to disrupt the country with strikes and anarchy. Despite McDonald's efforts, a strike is called, resulting in chaos. McDonald's child is knocked down by runaway horses abandoned by their striking driver, and dies. Mob scenes take place in America, as well as in Russia. Eventually, the unrest is quelled with an armistice called between Capital and Labor for a year, during which time wages are to be increased to reflect the cost of living, and leaders are to work out a common plan for their mutual advantage. The strikers now realize that they have been pawns of the Bolsheviks and call off the strike, agreeing to the plan.
"Flames" holds a slight edge in general audience appreciation, but "The Great Shadow" offers its own unique cult appeal.
Suggested Watch:
FlamesBoth films share