Film vs Film
Select two cult films to compare side by side.
Her Better Self Synopsis
Society debutante Vivian Tyler is engaged to marry Count Belloto, then meets Dr. Robert Keith, whose work in uplifting the poor has attracted wide attention, she is strongly attracted to him and asks permission to work in his sanitarium, where the poor of the city receive treatment free of charge. There she meets Aggie May, a woman arrested as a streetwalker, and because she wears a locket bearing Dr. Keith's picture, Vivian assumes that the doctor has been responsible for the woman's downfall. Later, Aggie kills herself, and although Vivian witnesses the act, to avoid a scandal she hurries away before the police come. Dr. Keith is arrested for Aggie's death, the locket providing evidence of guilt. Just as he is to be convicted, Vivian rushes into the courtroom and gives the testimony that clears the doctor.
The Luring Lights Synopsis
Anna, who lives with her harsh-tempered aunt, eagerly seizes the opportunity to join a traveling repertoire company. The girl and Darnton, the "villain" in the company, become deeply interested in each other, and because of Anna Darnton conquers his terrible craving for liquor. Later, when the troupe disbands in New York, Anna meets Rita. The girl makes the acquaintance of Marbridge, an agent of the worst type, and only her wit saves her from the man's clutches. Following a quarrel with Darnton, Anna foolishly consents to go autoing with Rita and the fast set with which the latter associates. The auto hurtles over an embankment and Anna alone escapes death. A reconciliation with Darnton follows. Anna obtains a position in the company in which Darnton plays the villain. The girl receives her great opportunity when the star, whom she is understudying, is injured on the opening night. Enwright, the manager, learns of the love between the new star and Darnton. Fearing lest sentiment affect their work, he sends Darnton to head the Chicago company. But the separation depresses Anna so greatly that Enwright orders Darnton to return. The player comes back unknown to Anna and suddenly appears before her at the next performance. The ensuing scene thrills the audience, which never for a moment suspects that the heroine and the villain are secret lovers. But the moment the curtain has descended Anna walks into Darnton's arms. Her lips meet his.
"Her Better Self" holds a slight edge in general audience appreciation, but "The Luring Lights" offers its own unique cult appeal.
Suggested Watch:
Her Better Self