Film vs Film
Select two cult films to compare side by side.
Object: Alimony Synopsis
Ruth Butler, a clerk in an emporium, marries Jimmy Rutledge, thereby greatly displeasing his mother, the emporium's owner, because of Ruth's lowly origins. Renaud Graham, one of Mrs. Rutledge's friends, becomes interested in Ruth, forces his way into her apartment and attempts to make violent love to her. Jimmy walks in on their embrace, suspects the worst, and leaves Ruth. In the family way, Ruth finds refuge in a boarding-house, where she meets aspiring writer Al Bryant. Ruth tells Al her life story and he makes it into a best-selling novel and then into a play. Jimmy sees the play, comes to his senses, winning Ruth's forgiveness.
Words and Music by - Synopsis
Impresario Thomas Sullivan arrives in Ossawatomie, Kansas, to debut a new musical show written by native talent Gene Harris. Sullivan hires singer Millicent Lloyd, who auditions with a song written by her boyfriend, local bookkeeper Brian McBride. The impresario takes Millicent to New York City, where she becomes a famous singer. Brian arrives in the city with a new opera but keeps his presence secret from Millicent until he has achieved notoriety. Unable to complete an opera of his own, Harris steals Brian's work and presents it to Sullivan, who casts Millicent in the lead role. With the help of music publisher Gus Hertz, Brian exposes Harris and reclaims his composition. He and Millicent are reunited, and the opera goes on to great success.
"Object: Alimony" holds a slight edge in general audience appreciation, but "Words and Music by -" offers its own unique cult appeal.
Suggested Watch:
Object: Alimony