Film vs Film
Select two cult films to compare side by side.
For the Freedom of the East Synopsis
In World War I China, Princess Tsu, who leads a secret group dedicated to eradicating German influence in China, learns that the Chinese viceroy, in order to further his own ambitions, has organized an army to help Germany win Russia. She steals their written agreement and smuggles it to American agent Robert Kenyon, with whom she has fallen in love. The princess' jealous fiancé, Prince Kang, tells her that Robert is betrothed to an American girl and, bent on revenge, she informs German agent Von Richtman that Robert possesses the secret papers. In Washington, Von Richtman sends his henchmen to apprehend Robert before he can reach the Secretary of State, but Princess Tsu, whose love of country has triumphed over her personal concerns, foils the plot. Aware of her great love for Prince Kang, she returns to China and marries him.
The Road Called Straight Synopsis
Al Boyd, a wealthy cattle rancher, falls in love with Betty Swiftmore, the sophisticated daughter of an Eastern meat packing tycoon. However, Betty loves fellow socialite Harrison Stevens and dismisses Al's marriage proposal, until a lawsuit threatens to bankrupt her family. She consents to marry Al, but his awkwardness among her society friends and his inability to dress appropriately cause Betty to remain cold throughout their honeymoon. After maligning Al's character, Harrison convinces Betty to travel with him to a cottage in the mountains, falsely assuring her that his mother and sister will act as chaperons. Al follows, part of the way on an iceboat, and arrives in time to stop Harrison's assault on Betty. Her coldness toward Al soon melts away, and she acquiesces to his request that they "travel the straight road together."
"For the Freedom of the East" holds a slight edge in general audience appreciation, but "The Road Called Straight" offers its own unique cult appeal.
Suggested Watch:
For the Freedom of the East