Film vs Film
Select two cult films to compare side by side.
Night Life Synopsis
Max, a sleight-of-hand artist, and his partner Nick, impoverished by the war, return to Vienna, the scene of earlier, happy days. Like many people driven to desperation, Max becomes a professional thief rather than starve; and Nick, in spite of scruples, also succumbs. Soon they are again prosperous, and Max is accosted by Anna, a poor girl reduced to picking pockets; he takes her to a restaurant and then to an amusement park, and they are soon caught up in a blissful romance, spending the night on the Ferris wheel. Anna takes a job as waitress in a beer garden, witnesses Max stealing a diamond brooch from a customer, and compels him to return it; Nick, convinced that her intrusion is destroying his friendship, causes her arrest. Ultimately, however, Nick takes the blame for the crime, leaving the lovers to start a new life.
Diamonds and Pearls Synopsis
Violetta D'Arcy turns down the proposal of Jack Harrington, whom she believes to be poor, and instead marries the wealthy Robert Van Ellstrom. Her husband's fortune, however, is not sufficient to cover her gambling debts, so she pawns her sister-in-law's jewels and accepts money from Jack's father, who wishes to be introduced into society. When Harrington, Sr. makes improper advances towards Violetta, Robert fights him, and in the struggle, Harrington, Sr. shoots Jack in the arm. Believing that he has killed his son, Harrington commits suicide. Despondent and ashamed, Violetta tries to drown herself, but Robert intercedes and takes her in his arms.
"Night Life" holds a slight edge in general audience appreciation, but "Diamonds and Pearls" offers its own unique cult appeal.
Suggested Watch:
Night Life